What truly defines a Top Luxury Suv? Is it the thrill of the drive, the plushness of its interior, or the cutting-edge technology it boasts? Perhaps it’s the prestige of a renowned luxury brand, or the expansive comfort it offers passengers. The best luxury SUVs masterfully blend these coveted attributes. However, stepping into the realm of luxury SUVs doesn’t necessarily demand breaking the bank. A selection of compelling and luxurious SUVs are available for under $30,000, especially if you’re open to exploring slightly less extravagant features or considering the value of the pre-owned market.
We’ve curated a diverse collection highlighting exceptional choices: five brand-new SUVs that deliver significant luxury at an accessible price point, and five pre-owned models from established luxury marques that represent outstanding value on the used market.
1. 2020 Buick Encore GX
The 2020 Buick Encore GX is a fresh subcompact crossover that elevates the standard of luxury in its size class. Buick pioneered the concept of the luxurious subcompact crossover with the original Encore in 2013, and the Encore GX represents a modern evolution in styling and advanced safety technology. (It’s offered alongside the original Encore, which is marginally less expensive but similar in dimensions.)
Starting at $24,100, the Encore GX allows upgrades to its premium Essence trim without exceeding the $30,000 budget. The Encore GX exudes a more upscale presence than its price suggests and, in true Buick fashion, promises a serene ride and intuitive controls. However, if robust power and expansive space are paramount in your luxury SUV, this subcompact with a three-cylinder engine might not be your primary choice.
2. 2021 Kia Seltos
Another subcompact crossover that defies its compact classification in terms of perceived size and luxury is the 2021 Kia Seltos. With its refined styling both inside and out, and an abundance of luxury features for its price, the Seltos emerges as a strong contender for a luxury SUV under $30,000. While Kia is positioned as a more mainstream brand compared to Buick, the Seltos compensates with substantial value – including a surprisingly spacious interior.
The Seltos enters the market at an attractive starting price of just $21,990. Luxury enhancements available within the $30,000 threshold include a prominent 10.25-inch infotainment screen, leatherette upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with heating, an integrated navigation system, premium Bose audio, and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels. The top-tier SX model, priced at $27,890, encompasses all these features, along with a more energetic turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. While not a quintessential luxury SUV in every aspect, the Seltos boasts appealing aesthetics and allows you to tick every feature box without overspending.
3. 2020 Hyundai Tucson
Stepping up in size to a half-class larger than the Seltos, the 2020 Hyundai Tucson delivers even more interior space and a remarkably quiet ride, all while maintaining a price point comfortably below $30,000. The top-of-the-line Tucson Limited trim is generously equipped with luxury amenities at $29,250, including genuine leather upholstery, heated seats and steering wheel, a convenient hands-free power liftgate, and a premium Infinity sound system.
While the Tucson might not offer the dynamic driving experience of a traditional luxury car, the Limited model’s 181-horsepower four-cylinder engine is refined and hushed, and this compact crossover provides a composed and comfortable ride and handling. If your definition of luxury emphasizes a wealth of features, the Tucson delivers exceptional value. Furthermore, you benefit from a strong safety record, a genuinely spacious interior, an extensive warranty, and – mirroring the offerings of brands like BMW – three years of complimentary maintenance.
4. 2020 Mazda CX-5
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 stands as a direct competitor to the Tucson, prioritizing a more refined driving experience and interior ambiance over sheer feature quantity. Mazda has long been celebrated for its sporty handling dynamics, and their latest models further enhance this with a high degree of sophistication – showcasing excellent suspension composure, minimized noise intrusion, and premium styling both inside and out.
The CX-5 also presents a compelling value proposition. The Touring trim, priced at $26,370, includes desirable heated leatherette front seats. For genuine leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a sunroof, and Bose audio, consider extending your budget to the Grand Touring model ($30,310). Alternatively, the slightly smaller Mazda CX-30, with all available luxury appointments, can be obtained for under $30,000.
5. 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
For many discerning buyers, European heritage is a pivotal aspect of a luxury SUV. The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan compact crossover brings the sophisticated styling reminiscent of Audi – also part of the Volkswagen Group – to more accessible price levels. Moreover, in contrast to earlier Tiguan generations, the current model offers generous interior space. An optional third-row seat is even available, providing seven-passenger capacity (albeit in a more compact configuration). While the Tiguan’s interior might not be overtly opulent, its nimble handling and uncluttered design clearly reflect its German engineering pedigree.
Furthermore, the Tiguan can be equipped with a respectable array of premium features without exceeding the $30,000 mark. The SE trim, priced at $27,095, includes leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. A $30,000 budget even allows for the addition of the optional panoramic sunroof.
6. 2018 BMW X1
When the allure of a luxury badge outweighs the desire for a brand-new vehicle, the BMW X1 is readily available to fulfill that aspiration. As a subcompact crossover, it offers enhanced roominess and a more pronounced SUV-like design compared to many of its similarly sized competitors, and it’s also more budget-friendly than other BMW SUVs. Market research indicates that a used 2018 X1 (or at least a 2017 model) can be acquired for under $30,000.
The X1 may not embody the traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW experience, but it retains the brand’s signature technology, refined styling, and agile handling characteristics. Acceleration from its 228-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is brisk rather than breathtaking, but you’ll appreciate its economical fuel consumption of 26 mpg in combined driving conditions.
7. 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Alfa Romeo isn’t a mainstream luxury brand in the American market, which can translate to advantageous pricing for informed consumers. The often-overlooked Alfa Romeo Stelvio luxury crossover is widely accessible for under $30,000 in the used car market. Savvy buyers can secure a Stelvio equipped with a spirited 280-horsepower four-cylinder engine, exceptionally responsive steering and handling, and the distinctive styling of Italian automotive artistry.
One contributing factor to the Stelvio’s competitive pricing is lingering concerns about Alfa Romeo’s reliability. While any luxury vehicle carries the potential for expensive repairs, exercising caution and seeking warranty coverage for a used Stelvio is advisable.
8. 2017 Lincoln MKX
If a spacious and serene luxury SUV experience is prioritized over sporty agility, the Lincoln MKX emerges as a compelling choice. This mid-size crossover represents the luxury iteration of the popular Ford Edge, enhanced with more sophisticated styling, richer interior materials, and a broader array of available features.
The MKX underwent a significant redesign and substantial improvement for the 2016 model year, and even newer models can be found within our $30,000 price range. Expect plush seating, ample space for five occupants and their cargo, effortlessly powerful V6 engines, and a smooth, quiet ride quality.
9. 2016 Volvo XC90
For those seeking an exceptionally refined interior aesthetic or the practicality of seven-passenger seating, the 2016 Volvo XC90 stands as a top recommendation. This mid-size crossover offers three rows of seats, including a reasonably usable third row, and since its 2015 redesign, it has garnered widespread acclaim for its interior and exterior design. Characterized by its clean yet elegant lines, and seamlessly blending opulent materials with advanced technology, the XC90 is a family favorite whose appeal extends far beyond school drop-off zones.
Well-equipped 2016 and even 2017 XC90 models with the mid-range T6 engine – a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder producing a spirited 316 horsepower – are readily available. While not a dedicated performance SUV, the XC90, with its leather-clad interior, can accelerate with impressive pace.
10. 2015 Infiniti QX80
For those requiring extra space and enhanced hauling capability in a luxury SUV under $30,000, the Infiniti QX80 is a recommended option. A 2015 or newer model can likely be found within this price bracket, featuring sumptuous leather seating for up to eight passengers and a potent 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine, capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds. However, be mindful of fuel expenses, as the QX80 is EPA-rated to achieve as low as 15 mpg in combined driving.
To potentially save further or acquire a newer vehicle, the Nissan Armada presents a viable alternative – sharing its fundamental architecture, much of its interior design, and numerous materials with the QX80. Leather-upholstered 2018 Armada models have been found listed for under $30,000.
