As the demand for sport utility vehicles becomes more and more intense, luxury subcompact SUV models are being produced with increasing frequency.
This article discusses the different types of luxury subcompact SUV models and their designs.
If you are looking for a high seating position, a practical hatchback, and a slick badge that won’t cost you an arm or a leg, then a glut of these brands is one of the most affordable ways to own a luxury vehicle.
Admittedly, some sub-compact luxury models are superior to others.
To help you with your search, we have compiled the five best luxury small-car SUV models that offer you great value for money.
Different Types of Luxury Subcompact SUV Models
Audi Q3
It’s no secret that luxury sub-compact SUV models are in vogue these days, and the Q3 2020 serves as a great example.
It not only exudes class and elegance but also offers top-notch maneuverability and provides a high ride height without unmanageable proportions.
The Q3 apart stands out among other models with heated seats and a high-quality leather interior.
Although it has a state-of-the-art interior, some materials cannot compete with the larger Q7 and Q5 models.
However, it’s equipped with an automatic emergency braking system to provide the driver some much-needed reassurance, and four-wheel drive is standard.
As one of the best luxury small car SUV models, the Q3 can comfortably seat five people and is available in 5 trim levels. Other innovative features of this SUV will also impress you.
These include Hill Descent Assist, pedestrian detection, a stop-start system, wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, a liftgate/power trunk, a hands-free trunk, a surround camera, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go.
The prominent variant is the S line Premium Plus, with a starting price of $36,995 and a 2-liter 13-turbo engine and all-wheel drive.
Additionally, it delivers around 27mpg on the highway and 19mpg in the city, for an average of 23mpg.
Pros
- Highway and city-friendly
- Sporty handling
- Chic Audi design that adds a touch of elegance
- Ideal for rough terrain
Cons
- Offers one power train
- Superior models such as the Q7 and Q5 offer more luxury.
BMW X2
The BMW X2 is a different luxury subcompact SUV model in the market. Thanks to its athletic handling and roomy interior, it’s one of the best in its class.
The X2 also comes with various powerful engine options, including a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid.
The 2020 BMW X2 comes in three trims: sDrive28i, xDrive28i, and M35i. There’s also an all-electric version called the iX3 that’s not part of this review.
The base sDrive28i has a powertrain consisting of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive28i has the same powertrain but adds an all-wheel drive.
The M35i trim comes with an even more powerful engine and a sportier suspension setting.
The M35i is also more expensive than the other trims, so it may not be worth the extra cost for most shoppers.
The base sDrive28i trim starts at $38,400, which is about average for the class.
The X2 has some upscale touches inside and out, but its cabin isn’t as luxurious as some rivals, costing around the same amount. All X2s come with synthetic leather.
Pros
- The perfect balance of handling and driving comfort
- Additional storage space under the loading area
- Spacious interior
- Diverse functions
- More spacious X1 variant
Cons
- A high waist leads to limited visibility
- Competitors have more standard security technology.
- More expensive than many other models
Lexus UX
The new Lexus UX is the first subcompact luxury crossover on the market.
From a practical perspective, it’s like any other premium compact crossover, with a large trunk and good visibility. Yet, it’s also like no other car in its segment as far as style is concerned.
The bold design of the UX starts from the front with its vast spindle grille that could probably swallow an entire Mini Cooper, even though the UX itself is considerably smaller than a Mini.
The profile of the UX reminds me of the recently discontinued Nissan Juke with its unconventional roofline and C-pillar, except that it looks nice.
Yet some people say that it looks like a Honda CR-V with big wheels, which isn’t too far off either.
The UX stands out for its unique character and fun driving experience compared to the competition.
The engine is powerful enough to make you smile, while the steering wheel offers good feedback and inspires confidence behind the wheel.”
The UX is available as a hybrid, with an estimated 41 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving.
It is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors.
The combined output is 181 horsepower, which is adequate for everyday driving but not enough to make you want to go on a road trip just for fun.
The UX only has a few features available in more expensive Lexus models, such as a large heads-up display that projects speed and navigation onto the windshield.
Pros
- Cheaper than its competitors
- Elegant interior
- A variety of features that put it a step ahead of its competitors
Cons
- A small hold that prevents you from carrying many items in one trip
- The touchpad can be confusing at first.
BMW X1
BMW X1 is one of the most popular luxury subcompact SUV models. It has a starting price of $33,900.
This car comes with a 2.0L I4 Engine capable of generating 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque.
It also comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission with a manual shifting mode.
BMW X1 offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,000 lbs and a maximum cargo space of 58.7 cubic feet.
What’s more, this car has excellent fuel economy as well. The EPA rating for the all-wheel-drive variant is 23 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway.
If you choose the rear-wheel-drive variant, you will get 24 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the road.
When it comes to safety features, this model offers a front collision warning system, a pedestrian warning system, and an automatic emergency braking option that will help you avoid accidental collisions.
Pros
- Includes safety functions
- Offers unmatched versatility
- It provides plenty of utility and a sporty feel
- It comes with various innovative features that make it stand out from the rest.
Cons
- Competitors offer more innovative features
- Generic design
- It is more expensive than other superior models.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 is a great different luxury subcompact SUV model for the most part.
The spacious cabin, high-end materials, comfortable seats, and easy-to-use infotainment system make it a great daily driver.
It also has more cargo space than most rivals and an available hybrid powertrain with better fuel economy than most compact SUVs.
What it lacks in performance, the Volvo XC40 makes up for its luxurious interior, which features premium materials and lots of standard features.
It also boasts more cargo space than many other luxury subcompact SUVs. The XC40 has one of the best-predicted reliability ratings in the class.
There are plenty of reasons to consider the 2020 Volvo XC40 as your next subcompact SUV.
Every model has a long list of standard amenities and five-person seating.
The cargo area is more significant than most competitors and has several user-friendly tech features.
The front-wheel drive (FWD) T4 is powered by a 2-liter inline-four engine with 184 horsepower.
The T5 counterpart reveals a more powerful all-wheel drive (AWD) and a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder.
The supportive seats are spacious and offer excellent comfort for more extended stays.
Pros
- Excellent interior and exterior design
- The interior is made of robust and durable materials
- Versatile and clever packaging solutions
- Spacious interior
- Various security functions
- User-friendly infotainment system
Cons
- The cabin is noisy with increased acceleration on the highway
- It takes a while to understand the touchscreen interface
- The transmission can sometimes be jerky and indecisive
What is the Difference Between a Compact SUV and a Subcompact SUV?
The first difference is simple: size. Compact sport-utility vehicles are smaller than their full-size brethren, and the subcompact SUVs, also known as mini SUVs, are still smaller.
The second difference is in the interior space. Because of their size and shape, subcompact SUVs do not have as much internal volume as compact SUVs.
However, most models still offer generous seating space for five passengers and plenty of cargo room.
The third difference is in the powertrain. Large V8 engines have traditionally powered full-size SUVs, but today, many are offered powerful V6 or even 4-cylinder engines to save fuel or provide more room for passengers and cargo.
4-cylinder engines usually power compact SUVs, but some models may offer a V6 engine as an option.
Subcompact SUVs almost always have a 4-cylinder engine under the hood simply because there isn’t enough room to fit a larger one.
The fourth difference is in the fuel economy. The more compact dimensions of subcompact SUVs mean that they can get better gas mileage than compact or full-size models.
What is the Point of a Subcompact SUV?
Subcompact SUVs combine smaller vehicles’ size, price, and fuel economy with cargo flexibility, elevated seating position, and available all-wheel drive that have helped drive SUV sales past those of traditional cars.
The best subcompact SUVs are built on a foundation of practicality and reliability.
Conclusion
Well there you have it, this article has given you a high-level view of the different types of luxury subcompact SUV models.
Luxury subcompact SUV models can be used for daily commuting, weekend getaways, and even rough terrain driving.
Take your time when choosing one from the market to ensure that it will fit your needs and lifestyle.
