New Car Prices on the Rise, Affordable Luxury SUVs Still Available
In a time when new car prices are climbing, it’s still possible to find a well-performing luxury SUV within budget constraints. On June 27th, “U.S. News & World Report” selected 11 best luxury crossover vehicles and SUVs priced at $50,000 or below.
In the evaluation, if multiple vehicles perform equally well, the one with the lower price will receive a higher rating. Ratings and rankings are subject to change based on new data.
Below are the 11 best luxury SUVs selected by “U.S. News & World Report,” priced at $50,000 or less.
Price: $40,500 | Overall Rating: 8.7/10
This luxury subcompact SUV is priced slightly higher among its counterparts, but it comes equipped with many features, making it worth the investment.
The X1 comes standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, a 10.7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a host of driver-assist technologies.
Price: $45,150 | Overall Rating: 8.6/10
The Genesis GV70 ranks high among luxury compact SUVs for its value, high safety ratings, and array of features.
The Genesis GV70 features a robust turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While a twin-turbo V6 is available, it pushes the price above $50,000. Most buyers find the base 2.5T model satisfying. Its sporty driving experience doesn’t compromise the ride quality.
Price: $46,900 | Overall Rating: 8.5/10
The BMW X3 compact crossover boasts a spacious cabin, premium materials, and a range of standard tech features. Power-adjustable front seats and synthetic leather upholstery are standard. The rear offers ample room for tall adults, but the third-row seat is suitable only for children.
The X3 is equipped with a robust turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with an option to upgrade from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive. Other standard features include a user-friendly 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rearview camera, and front and rear parking sensors.
Price: $44,450 | Overall Rating: 8.3/10
The Mercedes-Benz GLB delivers an energetic driving experience. This compact crossover is a good choice for families with its rare third row.
The GLB features a stylish and charming cabin with power-adjustable front seats and synthetic leather. The base model comes with a 221-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the AMG model boasts a 302-horsepower turbo-four, but it exceeds the $50,000 mark. Other standard features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Price: $36,600 | Overall Rating: 8.2/10
The BMW X2 luxury subcompact crossover offers strong acceleration and sporty handling, providing a more enjoyable driving experience for the driver than passengers.
The X2 is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offering average fuel economy ratings. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive requiring a few extra thousand dollars.
Price: $40,500 | Overall Rating: 8.2/10
The Volvo XC40 is a fantastic crossover, ranking high among luxury subcompact SUVs. It offers comfort, spaciousness, and excellent performance. Power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated front seats are standard.
The XC40 accommodates five people, though it may feel cramped with adults in the rear. The 2024 model comes with a more robust turbocharged four-cylinder base engine and new standard features. Other features include a vertical 9-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a range of competitive safety technologies.
Price: $44,350 | Overall Rating: 8.1/10
The Acura RDX combines comfort and flexibility, offering a quiet cabin and competitive tech features. The 2024 RDX, slightly higher priced, comes standard with all-wheel drive.
The cabin is upscale, spacious enough for two rows of adults. The seats are comfortable and supportive. Standard features include a 10.2-inch display screen, Amazon Alexa, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Price: $46,900 | Overall Rating: 8.1/10
The 2024 Volvo XC60 features luxurious interiors with premium seats and top-notch materials, prioritizing safety and comfort. It offers one of the largest cargo capacities in its class, with spacious passenger room in both rows.
The 2024 XC60 received updates to its powertrain lineup, and all-wheel drive is now standard.
Price: $39,455 | Overall Rating: 8.0/10
The 2024 Lexus NX boasts a spacious and upscale cabin, equipped with many user-friendly technologies. The synthetic leather seats are comfortable, and the metal trim adds a bright and cozy feel. The dashboard features a 9.8-inch touchscreen with excellent visuals and an intuitive layout.
Although the NX 250’s base engine performance is mediocre, the NX 350 comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, all within the under $50,000 range. While the F Sport Handling model exceeds the $50,000 limit, it adds excitement to the luxury crossover driving experience.
Price: $45,300 | Overall Rating: 7.8/10
The Audi Q5 is a stylish luxury compact SUV with excellent performance, user-friendly tech features, and a comfortable, spacious interior.
The Q5 offers four engine options, with the base turbocharged four-cylinder engine being the likely budget choice. It comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, adaptive cruise control as standard, and a heated steering wheel in the 2024 model.
Price: $49,800 | Overall Rating: 7.3/10
The Audi Q4 e-tron is a high-end electric crossover SUV that just about fits the bill for a luxury SUV priced below $50,000. The base model is well-equipped, and the 2024 version will feature a new standard adaptive cruise control system with lane centering assist.
While the Q4 e-tron’s base price is lower than its competitors, they typically offer more upscale interiors and more attractive driving dynamics. However, this car provides a comfortable ride with user-friendly tech features, and its powertrain is highly efficient even compared to other EV crossovers. While rear-wheel drive is standard, buyers can opt for all-wheel drive if their budget allows.
This comprehensive list showcases that it is still possible to find luxury SUVs with excellent performance and features within a reasonable budget. The market continues to evolve, offering buyers a range of choices that balance luxury and affordability.