BMW X1 vs Lexus UX
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
Too close to call on resale: both keep about 63% of their value over three years. Decide on the deal, not the badge.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| X1 | UX | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 813 899 | R 957 100 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 14 226/m | R 16 729/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 80% | 81% |
| Retained after 3 years | 61% | 63% |
| Value after 3 years | R 498 297 | R 601 811 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 315 602 | R 355 289 |
| Value after 5 years | R 371 815 | R 456 162 |
| Our tier | Premium (established) | Premium (established) |
BMW X1 →
Since 2010 the X1 has been BMW South Africa's entry SUV and a consistent volume seller for the brand. The current generation is sold alongside its electric iX1 twin. Resale is solid by premium standards because demand for compact premium SUVs stays strong here.
Known for: entry bmw suv with steady demand
Lexus UX →
Lexus SA's smallest crossover arrived in 2019 and is now sold exclusively as the UX 250h hybrid. It targets the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 crowd with lower fuel bills and the brand's seven-year maintenance plan. Cabin space is tight for the price, which keeps volumes modest.
Known for: compact hybrid crossover economy
Common questions
Which holds value better, the BMW X1 or the Lexus UX?
They are close to inseparable: 61% vs 63% retained after three years. Buy on price, spec and the deal you can get, not on resale.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The BMW X1 loses about R 315 602 over three years and the Lexus UX loses about R 355 289. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the BMW X1 runs about R 14 226 per month and the Lexus UX about R 16 729, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.