BMW X1 vs Audi e-tron
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW X1 | Audi e-tron | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 245 | 408 | -40.0% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 477 | 664 | -28.2% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Plug-in Hybrid | Electric | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $62,856 | $87,372 | -28.1% |
- Audi e-tron makes about 40% more power (408 vs 245 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Plug-in Hybrid vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (EU and Germany); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: X1 or e-tron?
BMW X1 advantages
- Affordability (+28%)
Audi e-tron advantages
- Engine power (+40%)
- Pulling torque (+28%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the BMW X1 if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Audi e-tron if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Audi e-tron delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
BMW X1 vs Audi e-tron: which should you choose?
BMW X1 (2026 xDrive25e M Sport) — plug-in hybrid suv with 245 hp and 477 Nm, rated at 100 km/L, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $62,856 in the EU market.
Audi e-tron (2020 e-tron 55 quattro) — electric suv with 408 hp and 664 Nm, rated at 22.4 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $87,372 in the Germany market.
BMW X1 vs Audi e-tron: Audi e-tron is more powerful. Audi e-tron makes about 40% more power (408 vs 245 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Plug-in Hybrid vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The Audi e-tron is the more powerful, at 408 hp against 245 hp, with 664 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Plug-in Hybrid vs Electric), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
BMW X1 is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and Audi e-tron 5 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The BMW X1 lists lower at about $62,856 (USD-converted from the EU market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW X1 better than the Audi e-tron?
Audi e-tron takes the overall edge, though BMW X1 wins in specific areas worth weighing. Audi e-tron makes about 40% more power (408 vs 245 hp).
What is the main difference between the BMW X1 and the Audi e-tron?
Audi e-tron makes about 40% more power (408 vs 245 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Plug-in Hybrid vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Audi e-tron delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the BMW X1 if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the Audi e-tron if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.