

The base four-cylinder model in particular is a questionable value. As exceptional as the Macan is, it's still a Porsche, which means that it delivers pretty dismal feature content and space for the money. The way it looks, the way it's made and, most significantly, the way it drives would make it a no-brainer if we were shopping for a compact SUV. Taken literally, the Porsche Macan is almost certainly the best compact luxury SUV. Porsche Macan Why it stands out: The best compact SUV to drive Porsche quality and customization potentialĬould be better: Expensive before you even get to the exorbitantly priced options small interior Its distinctive looks and beautiful interior really stand out (check out the purple, green and blue interior choices), and its rear-wheel-drive platform can be augmented by a smooth, massively powerful turbo V6 and a high-tech adaptive suspension that not only reacts to road imperfections but anticipates them. Although technically cheaper than German models, this isn't a value play - it still has a higher price than those from Acura, Lexus and Infiniti, and features a plusher interior and more sophisticated engineering that warrant it. The GV70 bursts onto the scene as a genuine, real-deal challenger for the overall excellence demonstrated by the Mercedes GLC and Porsche Macan, including offering a high-powered version. Best compact luxury SUVs Genesis GV70 Why it stands out: Beautiful interior user-friendly tech sophisticated road mannersĬould be better: Merely average back seat space not as sporty as it looks Read our Genesis GV70 review It's a desirable vehicle to buy on its own merits in a segment that often feels like you got it cause you couldn't afford a pricier model. Importantly, it's also one of the larger, more versatile vehicles in the segment and provides more features for the money. Its design is more utilitarian and youthful, eschewing luxury trims like chrome and wood in favor of elements like contrasting roofs and vibrant interior colors. It rides on a different platform from the various 60- and 90-series Volvos, resulting in a car that's a bit more playful to drive, but still possessing the solid, refined feeling one expects from the brand. The XC40, by contrast, is a break from the Volvo norm in a good way. Most subcompact luxury models feel a bit like cheap knockoffs of their bigger, pricier brand mates. Volvo XC40 Why it stands out: More features for the money spacious and versatile interior distinctive design electric versionĬould be better: Fuel-efficient base engine only available with FWD There's nothing dubious about buying a GLB. The quality's not exactly up to GLC standards, nor is driving refinement, but the difference is appropriate for how much you're saving and still perfectly acceptable. Its boxy design provides space few other subcompact SUV can match (luxury or otherwise), while its cabin design and feature content are in keeping with pricier Mercedes models.

You'd be much better off paying less money for a loaded, non-luxury compact SUV. Most subcompact luxury SUVs are a dubious value, with cramped interiors of marginal quality and unrefined driving dynamics. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Why it stands out: Outstanding space and versatility legit luxury interior amusing GLB 35 versionĬould be better: Overwhelming and confusing tech interface Best Subcompact Luxury SUV | Best Compact Luxury SUV | Best Midsize Luxury SUV (Two-Row) Best Midsize Luxury SUV (Three-Row) | Best Flagship Luxury SUV (Two-Row) | Best Flagship Luxury SUV (Three-Row) Best subcompact luxury SUVs They are listed alphabetically within the six segments listed below. Sports car makers Porsche, Aston Martin and Lamborghini have even dived in.īut of this great many, which are the best luxury SUVs? We sat down, scoured our reviews, took some votes, had some discussions and came up with the luxury SUVs we view as the best. There are electric luxury SUVs like the Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace, as well as gas-swilling, high-performance SUVs like the BMW X5 M and Cadillac Escalade V.

Today, there is a staggering number of luxury SUVs available in every shape, size and price point. Then Jeep Grand Cherokees and Ford Explorers started offering fancy, range-topping versions followed soon by Lexus, BMW and Mercedes dipping their toes in the water. Once upon a time, the idea of a luxury SUV meant a Range Rover, and even that was pretty agricultural by modern standards.
