3 Luxury Compact SUVs in 2023 That Cost Less Than $40,000
Starting prices for top-ranked 2023 compact luxury SUVs can quickly climb to $50,000 and $60,000. While there’s no doubt those vehicles present considerable luxury and even more status, these three options from historically luxurious brands start at under $40,000. In fact, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB cracked the top four in one critic’s “Best Luxury Compact SUVs for 2023 and 2024” list, and all three of our contenders ranked ahead of other big names with much higher prices.
The best Luxury Compact SUVs for 2023 and 2024
Recently, U.S. News published its list of the top-ranked luxury compact SUVs for 2023 and 2024. The publication points out that luxury compact SUVs fit buyers with the funds to afford a higher-end vehicle that still offers the convenience and features of an SUV. The list includes entrants from Genesis, BMW, and Maserati, but some model prices place them outside the reach of most compact SUV shoppers. So, let’s look at the prices and features of three models from the list with MSRPs starting under $40,000.
1. 2023 Buick Envision
Coming in at No. 13 on the luxury compact SUV list, the 2023 Buick Envision represents the least expensive model. With its $33,400 starting MSRP, the front-wheel drive (FWD) Preferred trim features:
- A 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder with 258 lb-ft of torque
- Automatic transmission
- Keyless start
- Auto-off headlights
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Electrochromatic rearview mirror
- Heated power side mirrors
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
The Preferred trim’s standard driver assist safety features include:
- Electronic stability control
- Traction control
- Blind spot monitor
- Lane departure warning with lane keep assist
- Cross-traffic alert
Considering the Envision’s low price, it’s unsurprising that it falls short of the competition in some areas, like lavish interiors and muscular performance. However, U.S. News reports that the Buick offers reassuring ride stability, superb fuel economy, and a long list of standard features.
2. 2023 Lincoln Corsair
While the 2023 Lincoln Corsair landed at No. 7 on the U.S. News list of best luxury compact SUVs, its score fell short of placing it in a tie for No. 3 by two-tenths of a point. The FWD Standard trim carries a starting MSRP of $38,690 and provides the following features:
- A 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 280 lb-ft of torque
- Automatic transmission
- Adaptive cruise control
- Auto-off headlights
- Keyless start
- Remote engine start
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Trip computer
- Power folding side mirrors with memory
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Smart device integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Dual-zone climate control
- Navigation
The Corsair Standard trim also includes the following driver-assist safety features:
- Brake assist
- Electronic stability control
- Traction control
- Blind spot monitor
- Cross-traffic alert
The list of U.S. News reviewers’ pros and cons reads much the same as it did for the 2023 Buick Envision. The Corsair offers a plush ride while its powertrain performs admirably and includes many standard features. However, it’s less athletic than some competitors, and the recent interior refresh removed some physical controls in favor of a larger 13.2-inch infotainment screen.
3. 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Our top-ranked, sub-$40K entrant, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB, carries a $39,800 MSRP for the entry-level FWD GLB 250 trim. The GLB placed No. 4 on the U.S. News list of best luxury compact SUVs with its posh interior and the following features:
- A 221-hp turbocharged four-cylinder with 258 lb-ft of torque
- Automatic transmission
- Auto-off headlights
- Power Liftgate
- Remote engine start
- Adjustable steering wheel
- Trip computer
- Variable speed intermittent rain-sensing wipers
- Heated power side mirrors with memory
- Smart device integration
- Dual-zone climate control
- Seat memory
The GLB 250 features the following driver-assist safety features:
- Electronic stability control
- Integrated turn signal mirrors
- Traction control
- Auto-leveling headlights
U.S. News knocks the GLB for its compact third-row seating option and peculiar infotainment system. Otherwise, the GLB’s spacious cabin cradles its occupants in comfort.
So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly compact SUV but desire more luxury than the standard economy options, you should consider one of these sub-$40K luxury models.
