Compact luxury cars masterfully combine style, performance, and advanced technology. They appeal to those who desire the prestige of a luxury brand without the bulk. These vehicles are engineered to provide a refined driving experience, sophisticated design elements, powerful yet efficient engines, and top-tier interior amenities. Here are 15 standout compact luxury cars that set the standard in their class.

2016 Lexus IS

The 2016 Lexus IS stands out with its sharp styling, upgraded technology, and reputation for reliability. The base model IS 200t has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower. Versions like the IS 300 and IS 350 feature more powerful V6 engines. Additionally, the Lexus IS has the Siri® Eyes Free mode, which reads out notifications while your eyes are on the road and your hands are on the wheel.

2024 Volvo S60

This compact luxury sedan is a mobile sanctuary from the harsh weather outside. Features like heated seats and Google apps provide owners a place to unwind. The S60 also has an advanced all-wheel-drive unit for enhanced traction and stability. High-quality materials like Nappa leather, genuine wood, and metal accents are used throughout the cabin. It also has Volvo’s latest infotainment accessories and modernized driver-assistance technologies.

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia

The 2017 edition marked the reintroduction of the Alfa Romeo Giulia brand into the market. This model has a stylish exterior, highlighted by Alfa Romeo’s signature V-shaped grille, sharp lines, and sculpted sides. Unlike the base model, which has 280 hp, the Quadrifoglio variant has a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, generating 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque.

2019 BMW 2 Series

Available in coupe and convertible styles, the 2019 BMW 2 Series looks much like its predecessor, the Series 1, except for slight makeovers like the lower roofline. Its iDrive infotainment system has a 6.5-inch display and smartphone integration. The Series 2 also offers the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the 230i, producing 248 horsepower, and the more potent 3.0-liter inline-six in the M240i, delivering 335 horsepower.

2020 Audi A5

The 2020 Audi A5 was designed for people who preferred a coupe over a saloon car. Its distinctive Singleframe grille and LED headlights give it an aggressive look. Its interior features the MMI touch response system, which has a 10.1-inch touchscreen display and provides navigation, audio, and smartphone integration access. Powering the A5 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque.

2024 BMW 3 Series

Few cars offer the vast options the BMW 3 Series provides, ranging from reliable 4-door coupes to high-performance race cars. The 2024 version is powered by different engines, including the 330i’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and the M340i’s hybrid system with a 3.0-liter inline-six. Both models possess an eight-speed automatic transmission, precise steering, a well-tuned suspension, and all-wheel drive.

2016 Buick Cascada

The Cascada is one of the three Buicks that were launched in 2016. A turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four engine merged with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission delivers 200 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. The Cascada’s soft-top roof folds neatly in 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. Safety components like the rear parking sensors and rearview camera, which assist in maneuvering, and forward collision alerts enhance driver awareness.

2019 Kia Stinger

Kia’s Stinger has an aggressive front fascia, available 19-inch alloy wheels, and a low-slung profile that enhances its sporty appearance. As a strong European sports car market competitor, the Stinger showcases a leather-covered steering wheel, a 7-inch infotainment display, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Its base model is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 255 horsepower. 

2016 Acura ILX

The 2015 Acura ILX combines sportiness and a comfortable interior and comes in four outstanding packages: ILX, Premium, Tech, and A-Spec. The ILX has a 2.4-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine that generates 201 horsepower and pairs with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A well-appointed cabin provides upscale materials and ergonomics and seats five passengers. It also has a dual-screen infotainment unit, with an upper 8-inch display handling navigation and a 7-inch touchscreen.

2024 Cadillac CT4

Buyers who upgrade to the CT4’s optional Super Cruise system can enjoy semi-autonomous driving, available in only a handful of cars. The vehicle’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offers 237 horsepower, while the 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine yields 309 horsepower. Both engines merge an 8-speed automatic transmission and a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. A magnetic ride control suspension and Brembo front brakes also ensure responsive handling.

2019 Genesis G70

The makers of the Genesis G70 wanted it to be an affordable yet luxurious car targeted at millennials. The vehicle has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 252 horsepower or an exhilarating 3.3-liter V6 engine with 365 horsepower. Both variants are paired with smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmissions. High-quality components such as leather upholstery and real aluminum trim enhance comfort for all passengers.

Jaguar XE

Except for the windows and similar parts, almost every component of the Jaguar XE is made of aluminum. Stylish, dynamic, and compact, this model has turbocharged four-cylinder engines, including a 2.0-liter unit with 247 horsepower or a larger 2.0-liter version with 296 horsepower. These engines are combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission and are available with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Its well-crafted cabin surrounds drivers and passengers with premium components.

2024 Acura Integra

Some car experts consider the 2024 Integra the best Acura ever made. Under its hood is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower. This engine merges with a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. Integra’s cabin has a stylish, tech-focused design with a 10.2-inch digital instrument control unit and a 9-inch central touchscreen display.

2016 Cadillac ATS

Available in sedan or coupe, the 2016 Cadillac ATS’ nimble handling is better than most of its European rivals. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing up to 272 horsepower, can be upgraded to a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 335 horsepower. The cabin features leather upholstery, wood or carbon fiber trim options, and advanced technology like Cadillac’s CUE infotainment accessory.

2017 Infiniti Q60

Simply put, the 2017 Infiniti Q60 is beautiful and one of the best-looking cars in its generation. A dual-arch grille, LED headlights, and sculpted lines enhance its dynamic appearance. Its stylish exterior houses impressive features, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 or a robust 3.0-liter V6 engine. Inside, the cabin showcases luxurious materials, such as dual touchscreen displays for navigation and infotainment and premium audio systems.