Best Luxury Compact and Subcompact SUVs of 2024
August 19 2024,
What is the best luxury SUV for 2024? Many models could claim this title as, depending on their features, they suit different buyers looking for a high-end, performance-driven compact or subcompact utility vehicle with exceptional refinement.
Sharing elegant materials, flawless finishes, and cutting-edge onboard technologies, they also stand out with powerful engines, depending on the model.
Best Luxury Subcompact SUVs in 2024
1. 2024 Audi Q3
The 2024 Audi Q3 is truly top of its class: once again named the best luxury subcompact SUV 2024 this year by The Car Guide, it has held this enviable position since 2020.
With its solid build and spacious cabin for its class, this SUV offers a very enjoyable driving experience. Indeed, it’s undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable in its category!
This model offers two engines: the 40 TFSI, a 2.0 L turbo 4-cylinder developing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, or the 45 TFSI, reaching 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft, both associated with the quattro all-wheel drive.
Its cargo volume is close to that of a compact SUV, offering 671 to 1,359 L of space; it also provides a towing capacity of 1,500 lb. Starting at $46,397, it’s an affordable luxury SUV, especially considering its timelessly elegant design.
2. 2024 BMW X1
The BMW X1 is another top choice in this category, offering high performance and a pleasant city drive. Its base engine develops 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, but an M35i for a more powerful version of 312 horsepower is also available.
Although towing is not recommended with an X1, you benefit from a generous cargo space of 728 to 1,620 L, very useful for daily use. However, it should be noted that the spacious trunk slightly reduces the rear space; it’s one of the pitfalls of the subcompact category.
The SUV stands out with its aggressive design, distinctly BMW, with large nostrils at the front, and its luxurious cabin packed with numerous technologies. A single base version is offered starting at $50,052; to this, you can add many option packages to customize your vehicle.
3. Volvo XC40 2024
While the electric XC40 Recharge has been the talk of the town, the gasoline-powered XC40 remains one of the best choices in the category. Scandinavian minimalist luxury is featured in this SUV with elegant yet sporty lines and a minimalist interior. The cabin particularly emphasizes comfort with plush seating.
Three trim levels are available: Core, Plus, and Ultimate, with starting prices ranging from $49,939 to $59,589. Under the hood, all trims receive the same engine, a 2.0 L turbo 4-cylinder with mild hybridization, delivering 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Where the subcompact SUV impresses is notably in its towing capacity, reaching 3,500 lb. It also boasts a cargo volume of 578 to 1,328 L to carry your gear.
Summary and Comparison Table
Each subcompact SUV model offers specific advantages, meeting the expectations of demanding drivers. For more information on the models and financing offers, visit your Groupe Lauzon dealership! Here is how the three top luxury subcompact SUVs compare:
| Audi Q3 | BMW X1 | Volvo XC40 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $46,397 to $55,847 | 50052 | $49,939 to $59,589 |
| Horsepower | 184 hp – 228 hp | 241 hp – 312 hp | 247 hp |
| Drive | All-Wheel | All-Wheel | All-Wheel |
| Towing | 1,500 lb | Not recommended | 3,500 lb |
| Cargo Volume | 671 to 1,359 L | 728 to 1,620 L | 578 to 1,328 L |
Best Luxury Compact SUVs in 2024
1. 2024 Audi Q5
Starting at a base price of $53,315, the 2024 Audi Q5 unsurprisingly remains the manufacturer’s best-selling SUV and also ranks among the top luxury compact SUVs of 2024. It is also listed as one of the most reliable luxury SUVs. Like its smaller sibling, the Q3, it holds a prestigious position in rankings such as the Car Guide’s best in its class.
The Q5 is equipped with a 201-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a 261-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid system. The Q5 also offers the quattro all-wheel drive system that has made it so famous. Its towing capacity ranges from 2,750 to 4,400 pounds, depending on the trim.
Furthermore, the 2024 Audi Q5 offers a cargo space of 725 liters behind the rear bench, and up to 1,515 liters when the bench is folded down. Your Audi dealer will be delighted to schedule a test drive for you!
2. 2024 Porsche Macan
Introduced in 2014, the Porsche Macan combines sporty performance, versatility, and elegance, quickly becoming one of the manufacturer's best-selling models. Your Porsche dealer can provide more information about the various financing options available.
Its sporty and elegant design and refined interior, consistent with other Porsche models, will quickly win you over, just like its performance and enjoyable driving experience, making it one of the best luxury SUVs of 2024. Four trims are available: base, T, S, and GTS, with starting prices ranging from $72,835 to $101,842.
Under the hood, you can choose between a 261-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 375 horsepower (S) or 434 horsepower (GTS). The towing capacity varies from 4,400 to 5,300 pounds depending on the trim.
Finally, it provides a utility volume ranging from 488 to 1,503 liters.
3. 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron
Newly introduced in 2022, the Audi Q4 e-tron is the only electric luxury SUV on this list. With a starting price of $62,800, the Q4 e-tron offers a spectacular design both inside and out, as well as remarkable performance, making it a good value for money, especially considering the monthly cost of an electric car.
The 2024 Q4 e-tron features a 295-horsepower permanent magnet synchronous motor, quattro all-wheel drive, and a range of 380 kilometers on a single charge, in addition to a towing capacity of 2,650 pounds.
Lastly, it provides 702 liters of cargo volume behind the rear bench and 1,502 liters once the rear seats are folded down. Discover how it stands out among the best electric luxury SUVs.
4. 2024 Mercedes GLC
The Mercedes GLC, introduced in 2015, quickly gained popularity among buyers, who consider it one of the best luxury SUVs of 2024. Offering an elegant design, sleek lines, and an athletic silhouette, it combines traditional Mercedes-Benz style elements with distinctive features.
Available in a single trim at a base price of $58,900, the Mercedes GLC nevertheless offers several optional equipment packages.
Under the hood, it features a 255-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged semi-hybrid four-cylinder engine paired with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. Focused on comfort, it is not the sportiest in this roundup, but stands out for its smooth ride and stunning interior.
It provides a utility volume of 620 to 1,640 liters, unless you opt for its Coupe variant, and can tow up to 5,300 pounds.
5. 2024 BMW X3
On the market for two decades now, the BMW X3 features a modern and athletic design, with dynamic lines and a robust stance, along with an impeccable and sophisticated interior.
Although the X3 is available in a single trim at an entry-level price of $62,052, it also offers plug-in hybrid models or even more powerful versions. Indeed, more demanding drivers can choose the M40i or M Competition trims for increased power.
The BMW X3 is equipped with a 248-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a high-performance all-wheel drive system, not to mention its maximum towing capacity set at 4,409 pounds.
Summary and Comparative Table
For more information on these models and their features, or about Audi or Porsche financing options, the experts at Groupe Lauzon are ready to answer all your questions! Many compact and sub-compact SUV models await you in Laval, on the North Shore.
Review the specifications of the top luxury compact SUVs:
| Model | Base Price | Power | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porsche Macan | $72,835 to $101,842 | 261—434 hp | All-Wheel |
| 2024 Audi Q5 | $53,215 to $65,365 | 201—261 hp | All-Wheel |
| 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron | $62,800 to $78,535 | 295 hp | All-Wheel |
| 2024 Mercedes GLC | 58900 | 255 hp | All-Wheel |
| 2024 BMW X3 | 62052 | 248 hp | All-Wheel |
| Model | Towing | Utility Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Porsche Macan | 4,400-5,300 lb | 488-1,503 L |
| 2024 Audi Q5 | 2,750-4,400 lb | 725-1,515 L |
| 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron | 2,650 lb | 702-1,502 L |
| 2024 Mercedes GLC | 5,300 lb | 620-1,640 L |
| 2024 BMW X3 | 4,409 lb | 813-1,775 L |
