Best Subcompact Luxury SUVs
Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best subcompact luxury SUVs based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in.
Read about how we test and evaluate vehicles here.Top Ranked Subcompact Luxury SUVs at a glance
C/D Rating: 9.5/10
1
2026 Volvo XC40
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,295
EPA MPG
26 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Volvo XC40 is a strong contender among subcompact luxury SUVs thanks to its youthful, clean design and generous feature set. Learn More
2
2026 BMW X1
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,150
EPA MPG
27–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 BMW X1 is an excellent subcompact SUV for anyone who values driving as much as they do a tech-forward, luxurious interior. Learn More
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3
2026 BMW X2
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,650
EPA MPG
26–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 BMW X2 SUV is a stylish take on the already well-favored X1. Learn More
4
2026 Audi Q3
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,995
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Audi Q3 features fresh styling inside and out, upgraded tech, and a revised chassis to keep it competitive in the subcompact luxury SUV segment. Learn More
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5
2026 Mini Cooper Countryman
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$36,075
EPA MPG
27 combined
C/D SAYS: With extroverted styling and playful road manners, the Countryman preserves Mini's quirky ethos while offering subcompact-SUV practicality. Learn More
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6
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,950
EPA MPG
27–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB-class is a roomy subcompact SUV that delivers on the brand's promise of luxury. Learn More
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7
2026 Mercedes-AMG GLB-Class
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$61,750
EPA MPG
23 combined
C/D SAYS: Vroomtastic! The 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLB-Class offers a boxy take on the performance subcompact SUV formula with grin-producing results. Learn More
8
2026 Alfa Romeo Tonale
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$40,245
EPA MPG
24 combined
C/D SAYS: With sprightly handling, a perky turbo four-cylinder engine, and handsome sheetmetal, the 2026 Tonale delivers on many of Alfa Romeo's signature traits. Learn More
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9
2026 Acura ADX
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$36,450
EPA MPG
27–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Acura ADX is both affordable and fun to drive, but its European rivals offer a more premium experience. Learn More
10
2026 Mini Countryman JCW
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$49,225
EPA MPG
26 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Mini Countryman JCW subcompact SUV is practical yet fun, with brand-distinctive styling and lively handling. Learn More
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