Best Luxury SUVs Under $50,000 for 2024 and 2025
By James Diaz
| Updated 3 Days Ago
In the 2024-2025 market for luxury SUVs under $50,000, Genesis’ GV70 leads with luxury and cutting-edge technology, including advanced driver-assistance systems, which assure a posh ride without exceeding your budget. Similarly, Volvo’s XC40 and XC60 stand out with their signature Scandinavian design and robust safety features. The XC40 offers a practical, well-designed cabin and easy-to-use infotainment, while the XC60 provides more space without sacrificing style or comfort.
The BMW X3 excels due to its engaging drive and high-quality craftsmanship, demonstrating a commitment to excellence. Mercedes-Benz’s GLC 300 SUV delivers dynamic performance with its turbocharged engine and rear-wheel drive (RWD), achieving impressive fuel efficiency with 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. Each model presents a distinct mix of attributes, allowing you to select an SUV that meets your requirements.
2024 Genesis GV70
MotoPickers Rating: 8.1/10
Starting at $45,150, the 2024 Genesis GV70 showcases luxury and performance in a compact SUV package. It introduces an athletic exterior and a premium interior complemented by advanced all-wheel drive (AWD), a turbocharged 300-horsepower engine, or a more powerful 375-horsepower V6. Additionally, the interior features a high-tech 14.5” HD navigation screen and a convenient fingerprint reader for easy access and settings adjustments.
The GV70 comfortably seats five and offers significant cargo space measuring 28.92 cubic feet (cu. ft.). Its agile handling ensures an engaging driving experience, rivaling top-tier SUVs. Standard safety features enhance driver confidence, including forward collision-avoidance assist and lane-keeping assist. Despite seats that could offer more support, the balanced ride quality and strong engine performance mark significant improvements in the 2024 model, positioning the GV70 as a leader in its segment with a competitive fuel economy of 18-22 MPG in the city and 24-28 MPG on the highway.
2024 Volvo XC40
MotoPickers Rating: 8.1/10
The 2024 Volvo XC40, priced from $40,500, exemplifies luxury that combines comfort with Scandinavian elegance in a subcompact SUV form. It features a 247-horsepower turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive (AWD) that guarantees responsive handling on diverse terrains, enhancing both performance and safety. Inside, the XC40 offers a comfortable and elevated seating position for better road visibility and interior reflecting Swedish aesthetics. The cabin accommodates five passengers and prioritizes comfort with supportive seats, though the materials vary in texture.
Fuel efficiency is a standout, with the XC40 delivering 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Its agile handling shines whether navigating congested urban environments or accelerating on highways. For the latest model year, Volvo has increased the standard features across all trim levels, although the 12” infotainment system may require some getting used to. Despite this, the XC40’s robust construction and advanced driver-assistance technologies, including Google built-in, make this Volvo an intelligent choice for those valuing reliability and style.
2025 BMW X3
MotoPickers Rating: 8.3/10
The 2025 BMW X3 is expected to start at around $48,000 and deliver a blend of agility, space, and luxury as a compact SUV. It’s said to begin with a 248 horsepower engine and offers up to 382 horsepower. Driving dynamics feature smooth, agile handling, ensuring confidence in turns and quick acceleration.
Inside, the X3 boasts a spacious cabin that comfortably seats five, which is ideal for daily use and longer trips. While its luxuries may not outshine all competitors, its cargo space is reportedly larger than its predecessors. Fuel efficiency will be competitive, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options available. Options for RWD or AWD allow customization based on climate and driving needs. Drivers can expect this model year X3 to refine its previous versions instead of presenting a radical recreation.
2024 Volvo XC60
MotoPickers Rating: 8.4/10
The 2024 Volvo XC60, priced from $46,900, balances luxury and affordability under $50,000. This model combines a spacious and tastefully designed interior with smooth handling to ensure comfort during city drives and extended journeys. Its AWD system and 247 horsepower engine provide balanced driving dynamics and reliable performance in various conditions. You can expect efficient fuel usage with estimated rates of 25 combined MPG.
Volvo equips the XC60 with a premium cabin featuring high-quality available materials like Nappa leather that enhance its appeal. Though cargo space remains compact and the 12.3” infotainment system may require some acclimatization, this vehicle compensates with various technological enhancements, including Google Assistant and a cabin air purifier. The 2024 model year discontinues the supercharged engine and FWD, focusing on robust powertrain options that underline the XC60’s comfort and Scandinavian elegance.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
MotoPickers Rating: 8.5/10
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, with a starting price of $47,450, offers a fusion of luxury and performance at a modest cost. It features a turbocharged engine producing 255 horsepower, providing a blend of efficiency and power suitable for diverse driving conditions. The interior prioritizes comfort with a plush design featuring an 11.9” infotainment screen and contoured seats to ensure even long drives feel luxurious.
The GLC-Class is also practical, offering a maximum of 21.9 cu. ft. of cargo space for adventures or daily tasks. Optional AWD complements the standard RWD configuration for dependability. Following its recent update, the GLC-Class remains competitive in the luxury SUV market, ideal for those who value Mercedes-Benz quality while watching their budget.
2024 BMW X1
MotoPickers Rating: 8.5/10
The 2024 BMW X1 is a compact luxury crossover that blends BMW’s renowned precision and handling with the practicality of an SUV. It starts at $40,500 and comes with two powertrain options: a standard 241 horsepower engine and a more powerful 312 horsepower engine in the M35i xDrive model. Both configurations include AWD and a seven-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting and responsive handling. The X1’s agile performance is evident as soon as you take the wheel, making it accessible.
Inside, the X1 showcases luxury with a spacious cabin accommodating up to five passengers. It features BMW’s latest iDrive 9 infotainment system, wireless integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a striking 10.7” curved-glass display. While offering substantial fuel economy of 23-25 MPG city and 31-34 MPG highway, the X1 balances performance with economical driving. This model captures the essence of BMW’s premium brand image and thrives in the luxury crossover market, often at a more attractive price point than the automaker’s X3.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
MotoPickers Rating: 8.6/10
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, priced from $44,450, offers an ideal mix of luxury and practicality with FWD or AWD options. This SUV delivers 221 to 302 horsepower, ensuring dynamic performance across all driving conditions. Its spacious and refined cabin provides a luxurious and comfortable environment for limited and longer journeys, making it versatile.
The GLB-Class stands out for its extensive array of standard features. Prospective buyers will appreciate the responsive engines, high-quality cabin materials like Nappa leather, and fuel economy figures of 21-25 MPG in the city and 26-33 MPG on the highway. While the third-row seating may be tight and the 10.25” infotainment system interface requires some acclimation, the 2024 GLB-Class remains an appealing option for those seeking a luxury SUV combining Mercedes-Benz prestige with efficient performance.
2024 Audi Q3
MotoPickers Rating: 8.7/10
The 2024 Audi Q3 merges luxury with practicality in a compact SUV format. Starting at $37,400, it offers upscale amenities at an affordable price and prioritizes convenience through systems like adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance. Standard side assist with rear cross-traffic assist enhances driving safety with responsive blind spot alerts.
Under the hood, the Q3 boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that has two outputs: 184 horsepower for efficiency and 228 horsepower for more dynamic driving. Regardless of the choice, each engine ensures responsive handling in various conditions, supported by AWD. The cabin, which seats five, focuses on passenger comfort over expansive cargo space. Modern tech amenities like wireless charging pads and a sophisticated 8.8” infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Carplay integration ensure on-the-go connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When considering luxury SUVs under $50,000, you likely have a few important questions regarding their value, performance, safety, and features. This FAQ section gives you more insights into your top concerns for these 2024 and 2025 models.
What are the top-rated luxury SUVs for 2024 with a price tag below $50,000?
The 2024 Genesis GV70, Volvo XC40, and BMW X3 are highly rated options. Each effectively balances style, advanced technology, and driving dynamics within its budget.
However, the 2024 Volvo XC40 carries the most budget-friendly starting price of $40,500.
Can you suggest the best 3-row luxury SUVs available for under $50,000 in 2024?
Options like the Acura MDX offer a 3-row configuration near the $50,000 mark in this segment. For potential savings, consider end-of-year deals or previous model years.
Shopping certified pre-owned will help you find a higher-quality model if you opt for a slightly older SUV, as the listing includes comprehensive multi-point pre-inspections from mechanics.
Which luxury SUVs under $50,000 are anticipated to have the best resale value in 2025?
Luxury SUVs such as the Lexus NX and Acura RDX from brands like Lexus and Acura are known for maintaining their value.
Performing timely maintenance will help solidify this value against fluctuations in the market.
What will be the safest luxury SUV options under $50,000 in the 2024 market?
Vehicles like the Volvo XC60, equipped with the comprehensive IntelliSafe safety suite, are expected to be among the safest options.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded Volvo’s 2024 XC60 a Top Safety Pick designation.
Could you list the best performing luxury SUVs in the under $50,000 category for 2024?
Performance-focused models such as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, known for engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling, are expected to excel in this category. Drivers can also benefit from considering the BMW X3, which is recognized for its potent powertrain within M models.
The 2024 BMW X3 M delivers 503 horsepower to transform routine daily drives into thrilling adventures.
What luxury SUVs for the years 2024 and 2025 offer the best features while staying below the $45,000 to $50,000 price range?
Consider the Genesis GV70, which blends high-end materials and advanced technology starting at $45,150.
The Infiniti QX50 is another excellent choice, offering a luxury crossover experience starting below $42,000.