Best Luxury Compact SUVs of 2026 and 2027

The Edmunds experts test drive luxury SUV contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank luxury SUVs
1st
2026 Genesis GV70
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
It only took Genesis a few years to find its footing and produce a knockout vehicle in the form of the GV70. It's a high performer across the board and presents unmatched value in the small luxury SUV class.
MSRP
$48,985 - $71,095
Combined MPG
21 - 22
2nd
2026 BMW X3
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The redesigned BMW X3 has a lot to offer. Its responsive engine and precise handling add enjoyment to every drive, while its spacious cargo area makes it practical and versatile. We recommend it if you're shopping for a well-rounded small luxury SUV.
MSRP
$51,300 - $66,500
Combined MPG
27 - 29
3rd
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC
Edmunds Rating
7.3/10
The GLC is one of our favorite small luxury SUVs. It offers smooth and efficient power, a classy interior, and plenty of helpful technology features. The latest GLC has also gotten more expensive, however, and some other competing SUVs provide better value.
MSRP
$49,550 - $86,750
Combined MPG
20 - 27
4th
2026 Audi Q5
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
The redesigned Audi Q5 is definitely new and different, but it doesn't feel that much better than before. Its standout wins are an easy-to-use tech interface and a comfortable cabin.
MSRP
$52,800 - $60,700
Combined MPG
24
5th
2026 Acura RDX
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
We like the Acura RDX and how it offers a roomy interior and lots of features for an agreeable price. More power or a hybrid option for better mpg would be welcome, as would easier-to-use controls. But overall the RDX deserves a look if you want luxury combined with value.
MSRP
$45,100 - $54,850
Combined MPG
23
6th
2026 Lexus NX 350
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
The NX 350 is an all-around solid compact luxury SUV boasting an upscale, high-quality interior and plenty of standard driver assistance features. It may not lead the class in any specific area, but it does well enough in every category to make it a worthwhile choice.
MSRP
$45,175 - $62,830
Combined MPG
24 - 40
7th
2026 Jaguar F-PACE
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The Jaguar F-Pace's combination of sharp styling, impressive dynamics and handy utility puts it in a league with the top players in this segment. The Jag suffers from a troublesome infotainment system and some cheap-feeling interior bits, which hurt its overall standing.
MSRP
$57,000 - $95,000
Combined MPG
17 - 24
8th
2026 Porsche Macan
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
The Macan is the class benchmark when it comes to performance. It has nimble handling and an overall vibe that's more sports car than luxury SUV. Unfortunately, the Macan is expensive and lacking in cargo space.
MSRP
$65,400 - $112,700
Combined MPG
19 - 21
9th
2026 Volvo XC60
Edmunds Rating
5.8/10
The Volvo XC60 has some appealing qualities, such as very comfortable front seats and a stylish interior design. But it otherwise comes up short on technology features, performance and overall value compared to top luxury SUV rivals.
MSRP
$49,700 - $79,800
Combined MPG
26 - 28
10th
2026 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is an outdated choice for a small luxury SUV. We do like its distinctive styling and no-nonsense interior design. But compared to its newest rivals the Stelvio suffers from a small cargo area, dated technology features and a bland driving experience.
MSRP
$49,995
Combined MPG
24

Most Popular Luxury SUVs of
2016

Table view of

Vehicles included in the data set are exclusively retail registrations to individuals and do not include rental sales or registrations from government bodies*

  1. Mercedes-Benz
    136,687
  2. Lexus
    124,374
  3. BMW
    112,390
  4. Acura
    98,939
  5. Audi
    84,687
20162025

Some Takeaways

  • Audi dropped out of the top 5 in overall luxury SUV sales for the first time.
  • While still the industry leader, Tesla sold about 35,000 less luxury SUVs in 2025 than in 2024.
  • For the forth year in a row, Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz were the top 3 sellers of luxury SUVs.
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Best Luxury SUVs

SUVs are a commanding force across the automotive landscape. This is especially true of luxury SUVs, which account for well over half of luxury vehicle sales. Manufacturers continue to introduce models to respond to demand, which has been stimulated by SUVs' increasingly car-like fuel economy. An SUV also provides special benefits, including an elevated driving position, available all-wheel drive and a large, flexible cargo area. It's no wonder buyers are flocking to luxury SUVs despite the price premium they command over upscale sedans.

Luxury SUVs are distinct from their non-premium counterparts in several areas. Most vehicles in these categories boast upper-crust interior materials and build quality. The best examples offer pillow-soft suspensions that glide over even the roughest roads. Powertrain options run the gamut from electric SUVs and fuel-sipping plug-in hybrids to immensely powerful gasoline SUVs, with all manner of automatic transmissions on offer. And of course, there's the prestige that comes with owning a vehicle that is a clear cut above an everyday SUV.

Our list of top-rated luxury SUVs is the result of hundreds of hours of driving, testing and comprehensive evaluation. We take each vehicle to a private test track, where we measure acceleration, braking and handling performance. Next, we drive it on a real-world driving loop that tests its performance on city streets, through twisty mountain curves, and in high- and low-speed freeway conditions. Finally, our editors take a turn at the wheel and come to a consensus on an overall rating for the vehicle relative to its competitive set.

Luxury SUV Features

While many luxury SUVs come well-equipped, they all offer myriad options and features for a somewhat custom feel. Look for frills such as leather upholstery, premium audio and a sunroof for a true luxury experience. Ventilated seats are must-haves for many shoppers but aren't always available on smaller luxury SUVs. Modern safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and 360-degree parking cameras, are par for the course and essential for easily placing large SUVs on the road.

Choosing the Right Luxury SUV for You

There are dozens of luxury SUVs spread across many competitive segments, so it can be difficult to figure out where to start. Subcompact (“X-Small”) and compact ("Small") crossovers offer a strong value statement to city dwellers, empty nesters, and those who simply want something that stands out from a typical SUV. Small families that need a bit more passenger and cargo space will likely find an appropriate vehicle in the midsize class. Full-size SUVs are perfect for growing families or, again, individuals who just want to make a statement. No matter which luxury SUV type appeals to you the most, Edmunds has the tools to point you in the right direction in your search for the perfect luxury SUV.