CarExpert Choice winner: Best EV – Small SUV

The BMW iX1 has been named Australia’s best small electric SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards.

It beat out its Mini Countryman platform-mate, as well as the second finalist, the recently launched Kia EV3.

The iX1, BMW’s most affordable electric vehicle (EV), was praised by the CarExpert panel for its slick technology and enjoyable driving dynamics.

The small SUV has a nimble feel despite its heavy battery pack underneath, while offering the instantaneous thrust expected of an EV.

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The iX1 isn’t as spacious as a more affordable Tesla Model Y, but as expected of a BMW it has an upscale look and feel inside and out.

That also makes it a very accessible EV for buyers ditching their combustion-powered cars – this doesn’t feel like a science experiment, it feels like a BMW.

As the all-electric version of the third-generation X1, the iX1 arrived in Australia in 2023, and was followed by a more coupe-styled sibling called the iX2.

The iX1 battles not only the likes of the Countryman, but also the Mercedes-Benz EQA and Volvo EX30 and EX40.

2025 CarExpert Choice Best EV – Small SUV

• Winner – BMW iX1
• Finalist – Mini Countryman
• Finalist – Kia EV3

MORE: Explore the BMW iX1 showroom