The small but growing luxury subcompact SUV class has emerged in recent years. Here’s a look at the current models.
Audi Q3
The Q3 was an all-new model for 2015 as Audi looks to expand its product offerings and sales. The Q3 is based off the A3, Audi’s compact sedan. The model is offered only with a 2.0-liter, 200 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Q3 is available in front or all-wheel drive with fuel economy expected to be 23-mpg city and 33-mpg highway with front wheel drive.
BMW X1
The subcompact crossover debuted in the 2013 model year and is the least expensive BMW model offered in the U.S. This small crossovers sports an impressive 240 horsepower 2.0-liter base engine and an optional 300 horsepower turbocharged engine for even more pick up. The X1 has a starting price of about $32,000 with front-wheel drive.
A 2011 BMW X1
Buick Encore
The Encore has been a surprising success for Buick since its debut in the 2013 model year. The subcompact crossover is based of the Opel Mokka. The 2016 Encore features a built-in WiFi hotspot.
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
The GLA was an all-new model for 2015. The GLA is more of a jacked up hatch back than an SUV but it is a subcompact model with spirited performance. The model’s starting price is $32,500 with front-wheel drive. It’s the first Mercedes-Benz SUV to come with front-wheel drive.
The GLA250 4Matic comes with a 2.0-liter 208 horsepower four-cylinder engine that pumps out a robust 258-pound feet of torque. The GLA uses a 7-speed twin clutch automatic transmission and its fuel economy is rated at 24-mpg city and 32-mpg highway.
If you want more power, you can opt for the AMG GLA45 which now produces 375 horsepower from the 2.0-liter engine. While impressive, this powerful subcompact crossover’s price can exceed $65,000 when well-optioned. You can learn more about the GLA class and its fuel efficiency here
Mini Countryman
With its base 1.6-liter 121 horsepower base engine, the Countryman offers an nAll4 package. Minor changes for 2015 include new wheel designs and optional daytime running lights. Similar to the Juke, the Countryman can also provide spirited performance with turbocharged engine options with power ranging from 181 to 208 horsepower.
Mini Paceman
Now in its third model year, the stylish Paceman is essentially the two-door version of the Countryman with the same engine options and fuel economy. The Paceman offers a Piano Black exterior package. Both the Countryman and Paceman have shown to retain strong resale values.
Expect more luxury subcompact SUV models to be on the roads soon. Learn more about subcompact SUV models and take our poll to let us know what model you like best at the bottom of the page.
