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These SUVs do it all for those unwilling to sacrifice power for space. Here are three small performance SUVs over $50,000 that don’t compromise on luxury. Mercedes-Benz, Tesla, and BMW got these sport utility vehicles right.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupe is a small performance SUV over $50,000

These small performance SUVs over $50,000 include the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S SUV | Mercedes-Benz

Edmunds says the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupe balances luxury and cargo space exceptionally well. It is fun to drive, and the trunk still has 17.6 cubic feet of space in the back with the seats up. With the seats folded, you get 49.4 cubic feet of space. Buyers can choose from a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, which are fuel efficient.

It isn’t the most spacious option, but it gets the job done for those who need a compact SUV. While the AMG GLC 43 Coupe is fun, the GLC 300 4Matic Coupe is cheaper and a better buy for most people. Edmunds suggests adding some safety features or packages to the 300 4Matic over the AMG. Either way, this is a good option for small performance SUVs over $50,000.

MSRP range: $52,500 – $66,500

Tesla’s Model Y is a small performance SUV over $50,000 that happens to be electric

Drivers love the 2022 Tesla Model Y, even if it is an electric vehicle. Buyers can opt for the Long Range or Performance edition, both of which have benefits. The Long Range will offer a longer range, but the Performance is fast and fun. Access to the Tesla Supercharger network is another plus.

Tesla hasn’t changed the Y much in recent years, but it hasn’t really needed to. Though the company continues to raise prices, the Model Y continues to put smiles on faces. As a small performance SUV over $50,000, the Model Y checks all of the boxes.

MSRP range: $65,990 – $69,990

Don’t overlook the BMW X3 M for fun and cargo space

Those looking for performance might want to land on the 2022 BMW X3 M. Edmunds notes that it offers “wickedly quick acceleration” and excellent handling. Drivers love the BMW X3 already, so offering the M version only makes sense. The Competition model gets 503 hp and sport-tuned suspension for a better ride and $7,000, but the experts at Edmunds say it isn’t necessary. Add the Driving Assistance Professional and Executive packages to the X3 M and get more bang for your buck.

Some people report the X3 M has a stiff ride, but others seem to think that is a positive. BMW has given this model light updates, but it is mostly unchanged for this year. There isn’t much to improve upon anyway.

MSRP range: $70,100

You won’t be able to fit everything into these small performance SUVs over $50,000, but it is enough for most buyers to sneak by. The luxury features from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Tesla make up for the fact that you can’t pack all three kayaks this weekend.

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Amanda Cline

Amanda Cline is an avid fan of Formula 1 and joined MotorBiscuit in 2021. A Southwest Floridian, she easily and often finds automotive events to attend in the Tampa, Orlando, and Miami areas.
Amanda is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where she earned a Bachelor’s in English Literature and a Master’s in Technical Communication. Combining her editorial and digital media expertise, Amanda served as a content creator for FanSided and now provides our readers with a variety of automotive subject matter like pickup trucks and SUVs, including valuable consumer advice.

Amanda closely follows many F1 drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Her all-time favorite author is Shel Silverstein.