Small sports utility vehicles are among the most popular cars on the American market, so naturally, automakers are trying to outdo each other in developing the best compact luxury SUVs. These diminutive cruisers share the benefits of the crossover SUV design, including a high driving position, plenty of trunk space, and extremely comfortable ride quality. But the addition of luxurious elements like high-grade materials, enhanced powertrains, and loads of advanced features, make these a cut above the rest. We have rated each model for sale in the USA to create a list of the best 2024 compact luxury SUVs.
Characteristics of the Best Compact Luxury SUVs
Just about every automotive brand has a small luxury SUV to present to consumers, each with its own sense of style and a value proposition it hopes will compare well against rivals. These differences mean that shared traits can be hard to pinpoint, but there are certain qualities that you should be on the lookout for in the top compact luxury SUVs:
What to Consider When Buying Small Luxury SUVs
Even the best small luxury SUVs have their drawbacks, which are worth considering if you’re looking to buy a new car. Use this list of pros and cons to help you determine if this is the right segment for you.
Pros
- Good-looking models
- Powerful but refined engines
- Extremely smooth ride
- Loads of advanced safety and driver-assistance features
- Their small size makes them easy to drive around town
- Less expensive and more economical than larger SUVs
Cons
- Limited passenger and cargo space
- More expensive than average, run-of-the-mill SUVs
- May require premium fuel
FAQs
What’s the best small luxury SUV in 2022?
With manufacturers vying for top honors, there are many excellent examples. At the top of our compact luxury SUV ratings are models like the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, the Volvo XC40, and the Lexus NX Hybrid that tick all the boxes for luxury, class, comfort, and performance.
Are there any affordable compact luxury SUVs?
The BMW X1 is one of the cheapest premium SUVs at around the mid-$30k mark, while the Audi Q3 is only a bit more expensive. Cheaper than both is the Lexus UX, which is available with both a gas and hybrid powertrain.
Are small luxury SUVs fuel efficient?
Because they have less weight to haul around, small SUVs are less thirsty than their full-size siblings. As they are often at the top of their respective ranges for performance as much as luxury, they won’t be as frugal as some of the more budget-oriented SUVs on the market. Hybrid and electric options in the segment are a worthy consideration, however.