According to a recent report by Grand View Research, the global luxury SUV market size was estimated at a staggering USD 171.88 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18.1% from 2024 to 2030.1
The popularity of these subcompact luxury SUVs is driven by a combination of advanced technology, superior comfort, and enhanced performance.
Here are the 15 subcompact luxury SUVs dominating the market and leaving their mark on the automotive landscape.
1. 2025 BMW X1
The all-new 2025 BMW X1 takes the top spot on our list, and for good reason. This subcompact luxury SUV boasts a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
With a 0-60 mph time of just 6.2 seconds, the X1 offers an exhilarating driving experience that’s hard to match in its class.
But the X1’s performance prowess doesn’t end there. It also features BMW’s renowned xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which provides exceptional traction and handling in various driving conditions.
The X1’s agile chassis and well-tuned suspension further enhance its dynamic capabilities, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
2. 2024 Audi Q3
Hot on the heels of the BMW X1 is the 2024 Audi Q3. This stylish subcompact luxury SUV is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that churns out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
The Q3’s quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive system work harmoniously to deliver a smooth and confident driving experience.
The Q3 also impresses with its agile handling and composed ride quality. Audi’s Drive Select system allows drivers to customize the vehicle’s throttle response, steering weight, and transmission shift points to suit their preferences.
Whether navigating city streets or carving through mountain roads, the Q3 is a capable and engaging companion.
3. 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA
Rounding out the top three is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA. This subcompact luxury SUV is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
The GLA’s responsive seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensure quick and seamless power delivery.
The GLA’s well-tuned suspension and precise steering further enhance its performance. The AMG Line package adds sporty touches like larger wheels, firmer suspension tuning, and more aggressive styling.
With its blend of luxury, technology, and performance, the GLA is a strong contender in the subcompact luxury SUV segment.
4. 2024 Volvo XC40
The 2024 Volvo XC40 may not be the most powerful subcompact luxury SUV on this list, but it makes up for its well-rounded performance and Scandinavian charm. The XC40 has two turbocharged four-cylinder engines: a T4 that produces 187 horsepower and a T5 that delivers 248 horsepower.
What sets the XC40 apart is its refined driving dynamics and comfortable ride quality. The SUV’s well-tuned suspension easily absorbs road imperfections, while its responsive steering and strong brakes inspire confidence behind the wheel.
The XC40 also offers advanced safety features, making it a top choice for those prioritizing safety and performance.
5. 2024 Lexus UX
The 2024 Lexus UX may be the smallest SUV in the Lexus lineup, but it packs a mighty punch in performance. The UX is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
While these numbers may seem modest compared to some of its rivals, the UX’s lightweight construction and well-tuned suspension make it a nimble and engaging performer.
The UX’s available F Sport package further enhances its performance credentials with sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, and exclusive styling elements.
The UX also boasts impressive fuel efficiency, making it an attractive choice for eco-conscious buyers who don’t want to sacrifice performance.
6. 2024 BMW X2
The 2024 BMW X2 is the sportier and more stylish sibling of the X1. Sharing the same platform and powertrain options, the X2 delivers similar performance stats, with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
What sets the X2 apart is its more aggressive styling and lower ride height, which give it a more dynamic and sporty appearance. The X2’s M Sport package enhances its performance credentials with sport suspension, larger wheels, and exclusive styling elements.
With its blend of style and performance, the X2 is a top choice for those seeking a subcompact luxury SUV with a bit more attitude.
7. 2024 Jaguar E-PACE
The 2024 Jaguar E-PACE may not be the most well-known subcompact luxury SUV on this list, but it certainly deserves recognition for its impressive performance stats. The E-PACE is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 246 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
What sets the E-PACE apart is its agile handling and responsive steering, which make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The SUV’s Active Driveline all-wheel-drive system can send up to 100% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, enhancing its dynamic capabilities.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and British charm, the E-PACE is a compelling choice in the subcompact luxury SUV segment.
8. 2024 Cadillac XT4
The 2024 Cadillac XT4 may be the entry-level SUV in the Cadillac lineup, but it doesn’t skimp on performance. The XT4 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
What sets the XT4 apart is its smooth and refined driving experience. The SUV’s well-tuned suspension provides a comfortable ride, while its responsive steering and strong brakes inspire confidence behind the wheel.
The XT4 also offers advanced technology features, making it a top choice for tech-savvy buyers.
9. 2024 Infiniti QX30
The 2024 Infiniti QX30 may be one of the more affordable options on this list, but it still delivers impressive performance stats. The QX30 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
What sets the QX30 apart is its sporty handling and responsive steering, making it a fun and engaging vehicle. The SUV’s available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
With its blend of performance, style, and value, the QX30 is a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a subcompact luxury SUV.
10. 2024 Mini Countryman
The 2024 Mini Countryman may be the largest vehicle in the Mini lineup, but it retains its signature go-kart-like handling and playful personality. The Countryman has two turbocharged engines: a 1.5-liter three-cylinder that produces 134 horsepower and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivers 189 horsepower.
What sets the Countryman apart is its agile handling and responsive steering, which make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The SUV’s available ALL4 all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
With its blend of performance, style, and practicality, the Countryman is a top choice for those seeking a subcompact luxury SUV with more personality.
11. 2024 Range Rover Evoque
The 2024 Range Rover Evoque may be the entry-level SUV in the Range Rover lineup, but it still delivers impressive performance stats. The Evoque is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 246 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
What sets the Evoque apart is its off-road capabilities, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system and Terrain Response technology. The SUV’s well-tuned suspension provides a comfortable ride on pavement, while its responsive steering and strong brakes inspire confidence behind the wheel.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and off-road prowess, the Evoque is a top choice for those seeking a subcompact luxury SUV that can handle any terrain.
12. 2024 Buick Encore GX
The 2024 Buick Encore GX may not be the most well-known subcompact luxury SUV on this list, but it certainly deserves recognition for its impressive performance stats.
The Encore GX has two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter that produces 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter that delivers 155 horsepower.
What sets the Encore GX apart is its smooth and refined driving experience. The SUV’s well-tuned suspension provides a comfortable ride, while its responsive steering and strong brakes inspire confidence behind the wheel.
The Encore GX also offers advanced safety features, making it a top choice for those prioritizing safety and performance.
13. 2024 Lincoln Corsair
The 2024 Lincoln Corsair may be the entry-level SUV in the Lincoln lineup, but it still delivers impressive performance stats. The Corsair has two turbocharged four-cylinder engines: a 2.0-liter that produces 250 horsepower and a 2.3-liter that delivers 280 horsepower.
What sets the Corsair apart is its smooth and refined driving experience. The SUV’s well-tuned suspension provides a comfortable ride, while its responsive steering and strong brakes inspire confidence behind the wheel.
The Corsair also offers advanced technology features, making it a top choice for tech-savvy buyers seeking a subcompact luxury SUV.
14. 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale
The 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale may be a newcomer to the subcompact luxury SUV segment, but it’s already making waves with its impressive performance stats. The Tonale is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 256 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Its sporty handling and responsive steering set the Tonale apart, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The SUV’s available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
With its blend of performance, style, and Italian flair, the Tonale is a compelling choice for those seeking a subcompact luxury SUV with a bit more passion.
15. 2024 Acura RDX
The 2024 Acura RDX may be the entry-level SUV in the Acura lineup, but it still delivers impressive performance stats. The RDX is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
What sets the RDX apart is its agile handling and responsive steering, which make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The SUV’s available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and value, the RDX is a top choice for those seeking a subcompact luxury SUV that delivers on all fronts.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
