SUVs of all kinds continue to dominate the market here in the US. There is no mistaking that you can get the best of everything out of these versatile vehicles, from the more affordable compact SUV crossovers, to massive full-size SUVs that are built to last. There are a myriad of reasons as to why SUVs continue to upstage the sedans and hatchbacks of the world. According to Statista, unibody crossover SUVs made up over 45% of all vehicle sales in 2022. In this article, we’re going to cover the crème de la crème of this highly sought after segment, including the best luxury SUVs 2023 and 2024 has to offer.
So, for those looking to buy a luxury SUV, we’ve gone ahead and broken the segment down for you into bite-size segments, with a score to grade each model. Helping you decide what next gas guzzler, or sipper, you want to spend your hard-earned money on.
How we got our model selections: HotCars analyzed new luxury SUVs for 2023 and 2024 model years only across seven segments: subcompacts, compacts, compact hybrids, midsize, midsize hybrids, 3-rows, and high-end.
Ratings were awarded in three key categories: Starting MSRP, combined MPG (Fueleconomy.gov), and reliability (J.D. Power Quality & Reliability scores). We used a combined average from each of the categories to determine our HotCars Rating, and sort these luxury SUVs in order with the highest ranking of each category appearing first.
Additional information, such as estimated maintenance costs during the first 10 Years (CarEdge) and recalls (NHTSA), were added for reference, but not factored into the ratings.
Best Luxury SUVs: Scoring Methodology
Starting MSRP |
Rating |
Combined MPG |
Rating |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
Rating |
||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$0-$30K |
10 |
33-34 MPG |
10 |
90-100 |
10 |
||
$30K-$40K |
9 |
31-32 MPG |
9 |
80-90 |
9 |
||
$40K-$50K |
8 |
29-30 MPG |
8 |
70-80 |
8 |
||
$50K-$60K |
7 |
27-28 MPG |
7 |
60-70 |
7 |
||
$60K-$70K |
6 |
25-26 MPG |
6 |
50-60 |
6 |
||
$70K-$80K |
5 |
23-24 MPG |
5 |
40-50 |
5 |
||
$80K-$90K |
4 |
22-23 MPG |
4 |
30-40 |
4 |
||
$90K-$100K |
3 |
20-21 MPG |
3 |
20-30 |
3 |
||
$100K-$110K |
2 |
18-19 MPG |
2 |
10-20 |
2 |
||
$110K-$120K |
1 |
16-17 MPG |
1 |
0-10 |
1 |
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Best Subcompact SUVs
14 2023 Volvo XC40: 7.7/10
2023 XC40 Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2023 XC40 in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2023 XC40 Score |
Starting MSRP |
9 |
Combined MPG |
6 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
If you want the luxury car experience without the luxury car price tag, then the Volvo XC40 is worth considering. It comes with all the benefits of an XC60, such as the crystal gear selector and impressive infotainment systems, just in a smaller package. It’s also fully capable, when specified with the AWD option, as opposed to the FWD drivetrain. The XC40 is the smallest Volvo SUV currently available, and this small stature, coupled with a fairly modest powertrain, ensures the model is both affordable and accessible.
Specs
Horsepower |
194 to 247 horsepower |
Torque |
221 to 258 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
26 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (all seats in place) |
16 ft³ |
Cargo Space (maximum capacity) |
57.5 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
B4 Core |
$37,445 |
B5 Core |
$39,445 |
B4 Plus |
$41,845 |
B5 Plus |
$43,845 |
B4 Ultimate |
$45,595 |
B5 Ultimate |
$47,595 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 74
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $11,907
- Recalls: 2
13 2024 BMW X1: 7.3/10
2024 X1 Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 X1 in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 X1 Score |
Starting MSRP |
8 |
Combined MPG |
6 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
The X1 is the entry-level model from BMW’s smart SUV lineup. From it’s turbocharged 4-cylinder, which benefits from a 71 horsepower bump if you opt for the M35i, to its fully digital dashboard including iDrive 9, there is an awful lot to love about the 2024 BMW X1. This brand-new model kicks off just north of $40,000, making it one of the more affordable SUVS that BMW currently offer.
Specs
Horsepower |
241 to 312 horsepower |
Torque |
295 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
26 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
25.7 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
46.9 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
xDrive28i |
$40,500 |
M35i |
$49,900 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 77
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $17,516
- Recalls: 0
Best Compact SUVs
12 2024 Genesis GV70: 7/10
2024 GV70 Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 GV70 in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 GV70 Score |
Starting MSRP |
8 |
Combined MPG |
5 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
Genesis has come a long way in recent years, a fact that is fully evident when considering the compact GV70. Not only is it stunning to look at inside and out, it also includes a comprehensive warranty package. Genesis offers a 5 year/60,000 mile basic cover, in addition to a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain cover. Also, it benefits from futuristic features like a remote-start, parking assist, and an available 3D digital gauge cluster. Details such as this ensure the GV70 makes a tempting argument for itself, even when compared to German competition which often dominates this segment.
Specs
Horsepower |
300 to 375 horsepower |
Torque |
311 to 391 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
24 Combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
28.9 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
56.9 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
2.5T |
$46,095 |
2.5T Select |
$49,095 |
2.5T Advanced |
$52,095 |
2.5T Sport Prestige |
$57,995 |
3.5T Sport |
$58,695 |
3.5T Sport Advanced |
$65,095 |
3.5T Sport Prestige |
$68,295 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 79
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: N/A
- Recalls: 0
11 2024 Porsche Macan: 5.7/10
2024 Macan Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 Macan in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 Macan Score |
Starting MSRP |
6 |
Combined MPG |
2 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
9 |
What’s great about the Porsche Macan, is that they have so many variations of powertrains to choose from, which allows buyers to customize their experience. According to reports from Porsche, the Macan has been their bestseller, which is no doubt thanks to its impressive reliability, reasonable pricing, and gorgeous design. The Macan is capable too, with a maximum cargo capacity of 53 square feet when all the chairs are folded.
Specs
Horsepower |
261 to 434 horsepower |
Torque |
295 to 405 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
19 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
17.2 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
53 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
Base |
$60,900 |
T |
$66,500 |
S |
$72,300 |
GTS |
$86,800 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 85
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $20,137
- Recalls: 0
Best Compact Hybrid SUVs
10 2024 Lexus NX: 8/10
2024 NX Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 NX in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 NX Score |
Starting MSRP |
8 |
Combined MPG |
7 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
9 |
Getting a much-needed revamp for the 2022 model year, the Lexus NX has planted itself as the quintessential hybrid luxury cruiser in the compact segment. With touch sensitive steering wheel buttons, a plethora of cool technology and a myriad of powertrains to choose from; the only thing you’ll need to figure out is whether you like it with or without the F Sport appearance package. Lexus makes it easy to customize your NX as well, with a fair amount of packages and interior trim options.
Specs
Horsepower |
181 to 275 horsepower |
Torque |
184 to 317 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
28 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
22.7 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
46.9 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
NX250 |
$40,605 |
NX350 |
$44,365 |
NX350h |
$44,615 |
NX350 F Sport |
$49,465 |
NX450h+ |
$59,905 |
NX450h+ F Sport |
$61,155 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 83
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,136
- Recalls: 0
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9 2024 Audi Q5: 7.3/10
2023 Q5 Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 Q5 in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 Q5 Score |
Starting MSRP |
8 |
Combined MPG |
6 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
The Audi Q5 is a great addition to this list, thanks to a reasonable starting price of just $45,795, meaning it’s accessible for many SUV shoppers in 2024. What’s more, the Q5 also has a giant list of trims and variants to choose from. Scoring highly on our HC scoring system, the Q5 looks to be a great all-rounder in this particular segment. New for 2024, all models will come standard with adaptive cruise control.
Specs
Horsepower |
201 to 261 horsepower |
Torque |
236 to 369 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
25 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
25.9 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
54.1 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
Premium 40 |
$45,795 |
Premium 45 |
$48,695 |
Premium 55 PHEV |
$48,695 |
Premium Plus 40 |
$50,595 |
Sportback Premium 40 |
$52,695 |
Premium Plus 45 |
$53,495 |
Premium Plus 55 PHEV |
$55,895 |
Prestige 40 |
$56,095 |
Prestige 45 |
$58,595 |
Prestige 55 PHEV |
$58,595 |
Sportback Prestige 45 |
$60,895 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 76
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $12,068
- Recalls: 0
Best Midsize SUVs
8 2024 Genesis GV80: 6.3/10
2024 GV80 Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 GV80 in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 GV80 Score |
Starting MSRP |
7 |
Combined MPG |
4 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
The GV80 commands the road with its huge front fascia and massive rear LED tail lamps. If you want a three-row SUV that breaks the traditional mold, then the 2024 Genesis GV80 is for you. With massage chairs up front, a command center in the second row, and a differential locker, there’s so much to love about the GV80. It scores well on the reliability front too, and with a minimum of 300 horsepower to boot, it’s got enough pace to keep up with key competitors.
Specs
Horsepower |
300 to 375 horsepower |
Torque |
311 to 391 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
22 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
34.9 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
84 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
2.5T |
$58,645 |
2.5T Advanced |
$65,145 |
3.5T |
$65,795 |
2.5T Prestige |
$70,395 |
3.5T Advanced |
$73,145 |
3.5T Prestige |
$78,195 |
3.5T Prestige Matte |
$79,695 |
3.5T Prestige Signature |
$83,270 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 77
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: N/A
- Recalls: 0
7 2023 Land Rover Defender: 5.3/10
2023 Defender Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2023 Defender in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2023 Defender Score |
Starting MSRP |
7 |
Combined MPG |
1 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
So far, the 2020s has been the decade of nostalgia in the automotive industry, from the Bronco to the now popular Land Rover Defender. With the rugged styling that enthusiasts have come to expect from the Defender, with a level of luxury and capability mixed in, this latest model is the envy of all body-on-frame enthusiasts. Having three powertrains to choose from makes it extremely versatile, and capable, as well.
Specs
Horsepower |
296 to 518 horsepower |
Torque |
295 to 461 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
16 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
10.2 to 35.8 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
44.6 to 76.1 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
Base |
$54,975 |
S |
$56,575 |
SE |
$67,575 |
X-Dynamic SE |
$70,575 |
30th Anniversary Edition |
$76,350 |
X |
$89,875 |
75th Limited Edition |
$91,975 |
Trophy Edition |
$96,475 |
V8 |
$109,375 |
Carpathian |
$116,475 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 78
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $18,569
- Recalls: 2
6 2024 Porsche Cayenne: 5/10
2024 Cayenne Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 Cayenne in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 Cayenne Score |
Starting MSRP |
4 |
Combined MPG |
2 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
9 |
Porsche’s flagship SUV is fully redesigned for the 2024 model year. From the futuristic LED daytime running lights to the equally futuristic passenger screen on the interior, everything suggests that the Cayenne is poised to continue being their flagship SUV. For 2024, the front fascia has received some revamping as well, in addition to the passenger screen, and all-new ‘S E-Hybrid’ trim. It also received an impressive reliability rating from J.D. Power, at 81 out of 100.
Specs
Horsepower |
348 to 468 horsepower |
Torque |
368 to 442 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
19 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
27.2 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
60.3 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
Cayenne |
$80,050 |
Cayenne E-Hybrid |
$93,350 |
Cayenne S |
$97,350 |
Cayenne S E-Hybrid |
$100,750 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 81
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $20,552
- Recalls: 2
5 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: 5/10
2023 Range Rover Sport Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2023 Range Rover Sport in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2023 Range Rover Sport Score |
Starting MSRP |
4 |
Combined MPG |
3 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
The Range Rover Sport is a staple feature in the luxury SUV scene, and this new model is sleeker and smoother than ever. It has a simple yet gorgeous modern interior, which is new for 2023, and finally, a PHEV offering. It may not be the cheapest or most economical model in this segment, which goes someway to explain the relatively low scores. However, the Range Rover Sport builds its phenomenal reputation elsewhere, with impeccable luxury, and an enviable road presence.
Specs
Horsepower |
355 to 523 horsepower |
Torque |
457 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
21 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
32 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
118 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
P360 SE |
$84,475 |
P400 SE Dynamic |
$91,475 |
P440 eAutobiography |
$105,675 |
P530 First Edition |
$122,975 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 79
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $16,989
- Recalls: 6
Best Midsize Hybrid SUVs
4 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ Luxury: 8.7/10
2024 RX 450h+ Luxury Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 RX 450h+ Luxury in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 RX 450h+ Luxury Score |
Starting MSRP |
8 |
Combined MPG |
9 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
9 |
If plug-in-hybrids are your thing, but you want to be pampered and eco-friendly, then the RX 450h+ Luxury is well worth a look. Yes, the model name is long but so is the 37 miles of range you get from the PHEV’s battery. What’s more, initial reports on the reliability front look impressive, with J.D. Power awarding the Lexus an impressive score. It’s no performance SUV, with just 180 horsepower on tap, but this relatively modest output equals impressive economy, as the RX 450h returns a combined average of 32 MPG.
Specs
Horsepower |
180 horsepower |
Torque |
233 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
32 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
29.6 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
46.2 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
RX350 |
$49,950 |
RX350h |
$51,800 |
RX350 Premium |
$52,100 |
RX350 Premium Plus |
$53,950 |
RX350h Premium |
$53,950 |
RX350h Premium Plus |
$55,800 |
RX350 F Sport |
$58,550 |
RX350 Luxury |
$59,080 |
RX350h Luxury |
$60,930 |
RX500h Sport Performance |
$63,800 |
RX450h+ Luxury |
$70,080 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 83
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,634
- Recalls: 0
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3 2023 BMW X5 xDrive45e PHEV: 6/10
2023 X5 xDrive45e Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2023 X5 xDrive45e in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2023 X5 xDrive45e Score |
Starting MSRP |
6 |
Combined MPG |
3 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
9 |
While the sensational twin-turbo V8 makes the X5 a bonkers mid-size SUV, the PHEV xDrive45e version provides a more practical approach. The X5 has a fairly high reliability score of 81, giving it a ‘9’ on our scoring sheet. The engine output is equally impressive, with 389 horsepower, alongside 443 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy lets the X5 down, scoring just 3 on our rating system, however that can be somewhat expected with such a powerful powertrain.
Specs
Horsepower |
389 horsepower |
Torque |
443 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
20 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
33.1 ft³ |
Cargo Sapce (Maximum Capacity) |
72.3 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
sDrive40i |
$62,595 |
xDrive40i |
$64,895 |
XDrive45e |
$66,695 |
M50i |
$83,395 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 81
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $18,389
- Recalls: 3
Best Three-Row SUVs
2 2024 Volvo XC90: 6.3/10
2024 XC90 Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 XC90 in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 XC90 Score |
Starting MSRP |
7 |
Combined MPG |
4 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
8 |
The Volvo XC90 comes in with an impressive ‘8’ on the JD Power reliability score. With either an ICE or a PHEV version to choose from, it’s equal parts practical and reliable. This three-row family SUV also offers just north of 65 cubic feet for storage, which is one great benefit of these specious three-row SUVS. What’s more, the choice of a frugal turbo 4-cylinder is available, which will help keep running costs low for those that simply jet around town.
Specs
Horsepower |
247 to 455 horsepower |
Torque |
258 to 523 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
22 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
12.6 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
65.5 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
Core |
$57,195 |
Plus |
$61,095 |
Ultimate |
$70,595 |
Recharge Core |
$73,095 |
Recharge Plus |
$74,795 |
Recharge Ultimate |
$80,795 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 73
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $12,359
- Recalls: 1
1 2024 Cadillac Escalade: 4.7/10
2024 Escalade Ratings
Here’s how our team rated the 2024 Escalade in three key categories:
Rating Category |
2024 Escalade Score |
Starting MSRP |
4 |
Combined MPG |
1 |
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability |
9 |
The Escalade is General Motor’s flagship. Not only is it evident in the price, but it’s also evident in the insane amount of technology inside. From wrap-around OLED informational screens, to augmented reality on the gauge cluster with the navigation feature. As if the V8 wasn’t burly enough, they’ve now implemented the Escalade V with a 6.2L supercharged V8, which churns out a mighty 682 horsepower. Fuel economy is poor at just 16 MPG, but it comes at the expense of impressive performance – perfect for those who prefer a little pace with their SUV.
Specs
Horsepower |
420 horsepower |
Torque |
460 lb-ft |
Fuel Economy |
16 combined MPG |
Cargo Space (All Seats in Place) |
25.5 ft³ |
Cargo Space (Maximum Capacity) |
109.1 ft³ |
Pricing
Trim |
Starting MSRP |
Luxury |
$83,890 |
Premium Luxury |
$95,190 |
Sport |
$98,190 |
Premium Luxury Platinum |
$112,690 |
Sport Platinum |
$112,690 |
V-Series |
$154,290 |
Reliability & Maintenance
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 81
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $12,933
- Recalls: 0
Sources: Fueleconomy.gov, J.D. Power, CarEdge, NHTSA, Statista, & manufacturer websites
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