Best Used Luxury SUVs

Jump To: Best Used Small Luxury SUVs | Best Used Midsize Luxury SUVs | Used Luxury 3-Row SUVs

A used luxury SUV is the perfect way to break into the world of prestige vehicles without spending an arm and a leg. For the same price as a new moderately optioned non-luxury SUV, you can get a lightly used luxury SUV with more features and a more illustrious badge. That's because depreciation hits luxury vehicles harder than their non-luxury counterparts, which is great news for you. Purchasing a used luxury SUV that's just a few years old can save you some serious cash, and we're here to help you find the best used luxury SUV for your needs.

Best Used Luxury SUVs

We focused on luxury SUVs that were sold new for the 2016 model year since many of these vehicles are coming off lease and entering the used-car marketplace. To make our list, each SUV had to earn a strong score from our vehicle testing team, as well as a high average rating from our industry-leading consumer reviews. We've also pored over Edmunds' robust market data to find out how much you can save by buying a used 2016 SUV instead of a comparable 2019 model. Suffice it to say that if an SUV is on this list, it's one of the best used luxury SUVs you can buy.

Best Used Small Luxury SUVs

Unless you absolutely need a large cargo area or three rows of seating, your search for the right vehicle could start and end with the small luxury SUV category. These space-efficient crossovers have the panache of their larger brethren at a more affordable price point. While interior plastics are used more liberally in this class, materials quality in these small SUVs still marks a significant step up from non-luxury rivals. Note that our Small Luxury SUV category includes both subcompact and compact luxury crossovers.

Used Acura RDX

Although there's a new generation of RDX on sale right now, we always considered the previous model one of the best in its segment. Our performance-minded road test editors fell in love with the RDX's powerful V6 engine (the new RDX has a turbocharged four-cylinder), while more sedate drivers were drawn to the smooth ride and comfortable seats. A well-designed rear bench and plenty of legroom and shoulder room mean that three adults can sit side by side in this RDX with little discomfort. Our consumer reviewers dig it, too. And shoppers buying a 2016 RDX save an average of 37% over new — that's pretty good for a Honda/Acura product, and resale values for this Japanese automaker tend to be among the highest on the market.

The only major change for this RDX generation came in the 2016 model year when Acura introduced freshened exterior styling, a mild increase in power, additional standard and optional safety aids, and the dual-screen infotainment system found in other Acura models. The touchscreen proved divisive among our staff, with most agreeing the previous single-screen system was easier to operate.

Average 2016 Acura RDX transaction price: $26,364
Savings vs. new: 37%
Edmunds rating: 8.3/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.2/5
Used Acura RDX years for this generation: 2013 Acura RDX | 2014 Acura RDX | 2015 Acura RDX | 2016 Acura RDX | 2017 Acura RDX | 2018 Acura RDX

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Used Volvo XC60

If you're in the market for a stylish crossover with tons of safety features, the 2016 Volvo XC60 might be right up your alley. Starting with the model's debut in 2010, every first-generation XC60 came with City Safety, which automatically applies the brakes at low speeds if it senses a possible front collision. There are numerous other driving aids, from blind-spot monitoring to lane departure warning, that the XC60 offered long before rivals adopted them. Strong turbocharged engines and comfortable seats are among this Volvo's many highlights.

Although the XC60 has the lowest Edmunds expert rating on this list, it also has the highest average consumer rating. That makes sense to us since our rating was based on a comparison against newer rivals — a consideration that isn't as influential when shopping for a used car. From an ownership standpoint, this XC60 looks like a winner. Significant changes throughout its life span include a revised front-end design in 2014 and new engines added for the 2015 and 2017 model years.

Average 2016 Volvo X60 transaction price: $27,067
Savings vs. new: 47%
Edmunds rating: 7.1/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.7/5
Used Volvo XC60 years for this generation: 2010 Volvo X60 | 2011 Volvo XC60 | 2012 Volvo XC60 | 2013 Volvo XC60 | 2014 Volvo XC60 | 2015 Volvo XC60 | 2016 Volvo XC60 | 2017 Volvo XC60

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Used Audi Q5

Based on the popular A4 sedan, the first-generation Audi Q5 was a hit right out of the gate. Compared to rivals upon its release for the 2009 model year, the Q5 stood out for its more spacious back seat, sporty handling, competitive fuel economy scores, and premium interior. In 2011, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine joined the fray; it was far more fuel-efficient than six-cylinder competitors while delivering similar levels of performance. In 2013, the Q5 added a fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain to the mix, and the optional V6 was replaced by a stout supercharged V6 with plenty of power. An even more potent version of this engine was used for the high-octane SQ5, which debuted in 2014. There was even a fuel-sipping TDI diesel model, though VW/Audi recalled most of them following the emissions cheating scandal. Tech-savvy shoppers should note that the Q5 never had a USB port; connectivity was handled instead by a proprietary interface. If you want to charge your phone, you'll have to hunt for an appropriate adapter.

Average 2016 Audi Q5 transaction price: $28,951
Savings vs. new: 41%
Edmunds rating: 7.6/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.6/5
Used Audi Q5 years for this generation: 2009 Audi Q5 | 2010 Audi Q5 | 2011 Audi Q5 | 2012 Audi Q5 | 2013 Audi Q5 | 2014 Audi Q5 | 2015 Audi Q5 | 2016 Audi Q5 | 2017 Audi Q5

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Used BMW X1

Unlike the previously mentioned vehicles in this list, the 2016 BMW X1 is of the same generation as the model currently on sale new. That means you can save a considerable amount of money on a used version while still driving essentially the same vehicle that's sold new on dealer lots. Though it's technically a subcompact crossover, the X1 has much more room in the back seat than most rivals, making the cabin perfectly suitable for four adults. There's plenty of room in the cargo area, too — more than some compact SUVs, even. Overall, the X1 represents a strong value, even though prices are on the high side. Shoppers should know that the X1 was offered only with all-wheel drive in 2016; the front-wheel-drive sDrive model came along in 2017. Apple CarPlay first became available in 2018, when it was sold as a stand-alone option.

Average 2016 BMW X1 transaction price: $26,338
Savings vs. new: 33%
Edmunds rating: 7.8/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.3/5
Used BMW X1 years for this generation: 2016 BMW X1 | 2017 BMW X1 | 2018 BMW X1

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Used Mercedes-Benz GLC

Like the X1, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC is of the same generation as the new model currently on sale. It can be found with a full complement of advanced driving aids and modern luxury features. Though the GLC is one of Mercedes' least expensive vehicles, you wouldn't know it from the luxe cabin materials, which wouldn't look out of place in one of the automaker's high-end sedans. Also notable is the GLC's diverse powertrain lineup, consisting of a base turbocharged four-cylinder, a plug-in hybrid and several high-performance engines. There haven't been too many changes to the GLC over its life span, so earlier models are roughly as desirable as later ones. Significant additions include Apple CarPlay availability in 2018 and the coupe variant in 2017. Though not a two-door as the name suggests, the GLC coupe offers swoopier body styling in exchange for a reduction in rear-seat headroom and cargo space (it also carries a heftier price tag).

Average 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC transaction price: $32,768
Savings vs. new: 27%
Edmunds rating: 8.4/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.0/5
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC years for this generation: 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC

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Best Used Midsize Luxury SUVs

Midsize luxury SUVs are more spacious than their compact siblings, with more second-row legroom and sometimes a third seating row. The quality of materials is generally improved as well, and engine performance ranges from adequate to face-flattening. The additional versatility afforded by a midsize SUV might give it more staying power in your garage, too, depending on your long-term goals. You're less likely to run out of space as your needs change, and the extra niceties should keep ownership enjoyable for longer.

Used Mercedes-Benz GLE

Though its new price was a bit higher than rivals, used buyers can score a fantastic deal on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE. Even sparsely optioned models come with a dizzying array of features, from adaptive suspension dampers to a sunroof, auto-dimming mirrors and a pre-collision warning system. As with other Mercedes-Benz models, GLEs are outwardly differentiated by their engines (for example, the GLE 350 comes with a 3.5-liter V6). This way can make it difficult to know at a glance the features a particular example is equipped with, as any GLE can be loaded up to the buyer's content. Regardless of powertrain or optional equipment, we like the GLE's quiet ride, comfortable seats and exceptional build quality. If you want to save even more money, you could go for the slightly older Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The two vehicles are essentially the same, with the M-Class getting a heavy refresh and a name change to "GLE" in 2016. Note that while the average transaction price is higher than the norm for this list, it includes the expensive, performance-minded AMG models. Prices for the standard GLE 350 are more in line with the competition.

Average 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE transaction price: $38,388
Savings vs. new: 38%
Edmunds rating: 7.7/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.4/5
Used Mercedes-Benz GLE years for this generation: 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class | 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class | 2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class | 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class | 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE | 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE | 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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Used Lincoln MKX

While older models were simply reskinned versions of the Ford Edge, a complete redesign in 2016 separated the MKX from its workaday roots. The interior was upgraded with more luxurious leather, open-pore wood trim, and a more robust list of features. A cushy ride, a supremely quiet cabin and a smooth-shifting transmission are among the MKX's many highlights. Though all models are well-equipped, the range-topping Black Label model — which cost much more than lower trims when new — is only slightly more expensive on the used market. We think its appreciably more upscale cabin appointments are worth the extra cost. Keep in mind that the Sync 3 infotainment system replaced the previous MyLincoln Touch interface partway through the 2016 model year. If you're considering a 2016 MKX, make sure it's one of the later ones with Sync 3 — it's much easier to use and includes support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Average 2016 Lincoln MKX transaction price: $28,352
Savings vs. new: 45%
Edmunds rating: 7.6/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 4.3/5
Used Lincoln MKX years for this generation: 2016 Lincoln MKX | 2017 Lincoln MKX | 2018 Lincoln MKX

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Used Lexus RX 350

A reputation for reliability is important even for the less price-sensitive luxury crowd, and it's one of the reasons that prices for the 2016 Lexus RX 350 remain stubbornly high. Combine that reputation with high-quality cabin materials, wonderfully supportive seats and a spacious interior, and it's easy to see why owners are reluctant to give up the keys. However, the RX 350's clunky user interface with its mouse-like controller is a point of consternation that greatly contributes to the model's relatively low consumer rating. As with other Lexus models, options are bundled into packages, so a detailed investigation might be required to find out which features a particular unit of inventory is equipped with.

Average 2016 Lexus RX 350 transaction price: $36,378
Savings vs. new: 28%
Edmunds rating: 8.3/10
Average consumer rating (2016): 3.8/5
Used Lexus RX 350 years for this generation: 2016 Lexus RX 350 | 2017 Lexus RX 350 | 2018 Lexus RX 350

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2016 BMW X5

The 2016 BMW X5 is one of the sportier vehicles in the midsize segment, but it still delivers a comfortable ride, along with wonderfully supportive seats and luxurious cabin materials. A two-row, five-seat configuration is standard, with a three-row, seven-seat layout available on 35i, 35d and 50i models. However, legroom in the second row is merely adequate, and the third row is a tight fit, even for children. Cargo room is also average for the class. Despite favorable reviews all around, this vehicle ultimately speaks on an emotional level more than a practical one.

2016 Infiniti QX60

Unlike some other choices in the midsize class, every 2016 Infiniti QX60 comes with seating for seven. That third row is also fairly spacious by segment standards, with good headroom for passengers up to 6 feet tall. It's not much fun to drive, but many shoppers are willing to trade performance for everyday usability. The 2016 model is slightly more desirable than previous years due to retuned mechanical components and additional sound insulation.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

As a large luxury SUV at the top of its game, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is understandably more expensive than the vehicles listed above. You'll have to pay a bit more at the pump, too, as extra weight makes the standard turbocharged V6 a little thirstier (though the GL also offers a fuel-sipping diesel engine). But the GL's cabin materials are a clear step above the rest, and there's enough room to fit adults in all seven seats. If you're looking to transport a cabin full of passengers in supreme comfort, few if any SUVs do it better. Don't miss the V8-powered variants if you're hungry for more power.

Used Luxury SUV Features

While features vary widely among luxury SUVs (and often between different versions of the same model), there are a few you can expect to find in most cars on your shopping journey. Many compact and some midsize SUVs come with premium vinyl (faux leather) upholstery, with leather available as an option or standard on upper trims. Auto-dimming mirrors, keyless entry, LED or xenon headlights, a sunroof, and a rearview camera are all examples of common but not necessarily standard features.

Choosing the Right Used Luxury SUV for You

Selecting the right used luxury SUV starts with evaluating your size needs and budget. If you often drive solo and don't have substantial cargo needs, you might be able to live with a subcompact. If you require a little more space or higher-quality cabin materials, a compact might be the way to go. Families and luxe-o-philes will gravitate toward midsize or large SUVs. If there are any must-have features on your shopping list, make sure to find which packages they belong to and ask if a specific unit of inventory is so equipped.

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