Top-5 Subcompact Luxury SUVs for 2023 // Which would you pick?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 ก.พ. 2023
- This is a Motormouth couple car review of the top-5 subcompact luxury SUVs for 2023. In alphabetical order:
Audi Q3
Powertrain: The Audi Q3 has one powertrain option at this time, the 40 TFSI is no longer list on the website. The 45 has a 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder with an 8-speed automatic transmission, 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Standard AWD.
Pros: You can put regular fuel in the Audi Q3, it’s an affordable option, even the base model comes with plenty of standard features, it has a modern exterior and interior design with plenty of technology that is intuitive to us.
Cons: Steering on the Audi Q3 is very light, offers less cargo space and the cabin isn’t as quiet as some of its competitions.
BMW X1
Powertrain: 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission, 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, that’s up 13 horsepower and 37 lb-ft of torque from the outgoing model. Standard AWD.
Pros: The BMW X1 has dynamic and agile handling, it’s fun to drive, it has a more powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder and a quieter cabin compared to the outgoing model.
Cons: Although the BMW X1 iDrive 8 operating system is quick, most functions are now done in the touchscreen, there is no more dial at the centre console to control the screen.
Cadillac XT4
Powertrain: 2L turbo 4-cylinder engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission, 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. FWD and AWD options are available.
Pros: The Cadillac XT4 has a modern exterior design, good value, quick shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, plenty of power and a spacious interior.
Cons: The Cadillac XT4 is missing that luxury experience on the inside, the tech needs to be updated
Mercedes-Benz GLA/GLB
Powertrain: The base is a 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder with an 8-speed automatic transmission, 221 horsepower and a 258 lb-ft of torque. AMG 35 has 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque and the AMG GLA 45 with 382 horsepower ad 354 lb-ft of torque. Standard AWD in Canada but there is a FWD option in the US.
Pros:Both the Mercedes GLA and Mercedes-Benz GLB have a very pleasant and comfortable driving dynamics and dynamic enough for many buyers. The interior feels upscale and sophisticated. It has really held up all these years even though a new model is coming. The GLB is very practical with its boxy exterior design, it offers a lot of space including an available 3rd row.
Cons: Mercedes GLA cargo space is small compared to much of the competition, the Mercedes-Benz GLB on the other hand keeps up better with the competition. On the GLA/GLB, Apple Carplay and Android Auto are not standard, you have to buy a package and the heated steering wheel is a la carte on the GLA.
Volvo XC40
Powertrain: There are three powertrain options, including a pure EV. The gas models have a 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder and a mild hybrid system with either the B4 powertrain with 194 horsepower or B5 with 247 horsepower. The XC40 Recharge, the pure EV has a combined 402 horsepower and 359 km/ 223 miles of EV range.
Pros: The Volvo XC40 is smooth and refined drive with a very comfortable cabin, the interior is upscale and elegant yet practical with beautiful materials used. In the US, AWD is only available with the more powerful B5 engine, B4 is FWD. In Canada, both the B4 and B5 are AWD models.
Cons: The Volvo XC40 has a Higher driver seating position and may not work well for taller people. Volvo’s google based infotainment system is not intuitive to use and almost everything inside the cabin is controlled by the screen with only a few buttons inside the cabin.
Other subcompact luxury SUVs to consider are the Mini Countryman and the Lexus UX250h.
Andrea Instagram / motormouth_andrea
Zack Instagram / motormouth_auto - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
I have the Q3 & love it. Putting regular gas in it saves me so much money. I do a lot of city & long distance driving.
Bought a 2022 XC40 last year and love it. I’m 6’ and find the drivers’ seat to be just fine. The infotainment system does have a learning curve but once learned it works well.
I actually looked at the Lexus 250awd, Volvo XC40, and GLB. Just out of curiosity I looked at a RAV4. It was a (base) model fwd. Boy was it plastic fantastic inside and out. But wow I liked how it drove. Looking at hauling around a 65lbs pound dog. Yes the RAV4 is a size class bigger, has a more utilitarian interior. I ended up ordering a RAV4 XSE hybrid awd. I added the technology and winter packages, plus panoramic roof option and premium white paint. The interior has all the soft touch surfaces features I need. But a pwr passenger seat (would be nice).
I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. I swapped out the OEM tires for a much quieter touring tire. Added sound deadening tiles above spare in the tire compartment too.
I’ve owned BMW’s, Lincoln’s and a Cadillac. Guys, I couldn’t be happier! Sometimes buying a fully loaded standard brand is smarter $$ wise. Besides my model RAV4 isn’t that common. I receive more attention in my RAV4 then I ever did in the other makes. Lookiloos on the road are giving thumbs up. Plus can I look at your your RAV4? While parked in public area’s.
I’ve saved a lot o $$ on my new car purchase. 15-20k averaged out. Besides used prices for my model are the same or more than I paid in some US markets. Just food for thought everyone.
Agree with Andrea on Screens in vehicles....I hate a screen stuck on a Dash, looks awful IMHO ...integrated looks like they actually put some thought into a design instead of using crazy glue in afterthought to stick it on
Definitely. Screens stuck on the dash seem like a 'just put it there' option from the manufacturers. 👎
Thanks so much for this video! I know I have mentioned this in one of your videos, but the insights you shared in your review of the XC40 were so helpful for me when I was car shopping 2 years ago. I fell in love with the Volvo XC40, lol! I can attest to everything you said about quality of the ride and the ride height. One thing I should add is that I’m 5’8 and frequently wear heels, and I don’t find the car uncomfortable or too short!
Mini Countryman is always a bridesmaid never a bride 🙁 The F60 Countryman has been very reliable and the 7 speed DCT is bitter smooth. I absolutely love mine. It wish they received more love from reviewers.
Love these reviews thanks for sharing.
Thanks for mentioning the Lexus UX250h. You are right on in that the backseat legroom and cargo areas are small but we can get our three grand daughters in there on booster seats! We absolutely LOVE our 2022 ux250h! So much fun and AWD in a compact hybrid with amazing fuel economy!
It's a well designed vehicle
Loved mine.
At this point, any vehicle can be “luxury” with the right trim and features. And the non luxury brands may be more reliable and cost less to service.
IMHO, there are no real luxury cars left unless you get into something 150,000+. It’s not like the 80s, where you could get a Oldsmobile station wagon that was super comfortable for long drives. Sure, all the technology we have now is great, but everything else looks decidedly cheaper. You can call that “modern” and “sporty” if you want to, but all I see are seats and suspension that are much stiffer because for some reason, people want handling and road feel in a luxury car. There’s nothing luxurious about a sore back. If it doesn’t feel or ride like a luxury car, it’s not a luxury car. They’re cheating you. It’s like a visor. Nobody should be paying for half a hat. Just because it has leather (or in some cases fake leather) seats doesn’t make it luxury. You can get a Honda Civic, the king of economy cars, with leather seats.
I love my Q3. Purchased it a few months ago. K didn’t know much about the Q3 until I watched one of your previous videos. My ears perked up when regular fuel was mentioned. Love driving it and plenty of space for me.
Looking forward to another of your informative countdown videos Andrea and Zack.
another great review, love the channel
Thanks for the video. I am currently driving XC 40 and had a Q3 in the past. XC 40 is my top pick, follow by X1, Q3, GLB. Like the look of XC40, it has a smooth and powerful ride. I am not a tall person, have no issues of the higher seat. It’s very comfortable for a long ride. The only thing that I like to see is a bit heavier steering wheel.
My XC 40 is on order, so I’m happy to see this comment.
I looked at the Q3, GLB and X1, ended up getting the X1 and love it. It's big upgrade from older generations, fun to drive and comfortable. I dislike the no button design, and I think the door close is not as soft as other luxury models.
Totally agree with you. Test drove all 3 and the X1 was the most fun and great interior. But hate the lack of buttons too.
The UX is the only one I'd actually buy; for leasing it would be either the Mercedes GLA or the Volvo XC40. Thanks for another great video.
Aside from purchase pricing, I would like to see even more discussion about brand/model reliability and TCO. Years ago, I owned a 2006 BMW X3 and spent way too much on maintenance and repairs. It was nice to drive but not a wise financial choice.
You guys are truly the most personable and easy to listen to when it comes to car reviews
I really enjoy all your reviews. We are in the market for a new vehicle and I wouldn’t buy something without watching both of you review it first! It would be fantastic if you introduced some truck reviews!
Andrea, for the money it costs for these subcompact luxury SUVs, would you be better off buying a CX5 Signature ? You get a bit more room with a turbo engine (runs on regular or premium gas while maintaining the same torque), near luxury interior and same NVH. Not to mention the CX5 has better reliability and exterior design (subjective). The only downside is it does not have the luxury badge for those who think it matters.
Yes I think for some having the luxury badge is very important especially if it's something you can afford. I love the CX-5 Turbo, it handles incredibly well but some don't like it because they feel the steering is heavy and the suspension quite firm. These luxury vehicles in this class are all different offering people different driving dynamics. If I couldn't afford the X1 for example which I feel handles the best of all of these, I would buy the CX-30, CX-5 or CX-50 because they are the closest in handling in my opinion to a luxury brand. They are all a blast to drive!
@@andreaspencer9813 are you giving away any gift for subscribers. I had a message stating that but now that message is gone
@Tharindu Prasanna No, we are not, it's spam. We have reported it.
@@andreaspencer9813 Thanks a lot
I have a big question.
Could you guys make a video explaining the difference types of engine… “stuff”?
Like inline vs V, Atkinson cycle, etc.
You guys always mention these things and I just nod along and smile 😅. It could be one big video with all these info that you guys can refer people to in every video.
Keep it up, you guys have become my go to car review channel.
Yes! thanks for this!
Thank you for the information it was very valuable in assisting me and making my choice of the XC 40 Volvo.
thanks for the video :)
Thanks for watching!
I think you guys nailed the list. The Volvo seems quite intriguing. I keep forgetting about them. Thanks for the video.
Great video. 👍 My favorite is the JCW Countryman.
I was looking for a new car and looked at the BMW X1, Q3 and XC40…decided on the XC40 for all the things you guys talked about…great content…
Loved this video. If you want a fun engaging drive then the BRZ/GR86 twins are the best all around fun cars at affordable prices. I own the 2022 BRZ and just love driving it. For my winter beater I own the 2020 Outback XT, the turbo sold me!! After watching this video of the BMW X1 it has my interest, it’s the 295 lb ft torque figure that caught my eye!!!! Keep up these fabulous videos❤️
I have a 2022 brz as well and I drive it in winter too. Arguably just as much fun as summer but on a different level. Very balanced car and does great in snow.
Wow both pretty new cars you have. My Mazda is 12 years old and goes thru all seasons. Waiting at the moment when I can order a new SUV. Ridiculous you can't just go buy one, you have to order than wait months. You lucky people only driving new cars then dumping then after 3, 4 years.
I just purchased a 2023 lincoln Corsair Standard. There is a plethora of techs in the standard. 250hp which is above all that's on your top 5. When I traded my 2022 Corsair for a 2022 Q3 the salespeople were questioning me as if I were a witness to a crime. My wife didn't like the Audi so I went back and got the 2023 Corsair. GREAT SUV. THE BEST LUXURY SUBCOMPACT hands down.
after watching MANY MANY Reviews , You two are the The Best at what you , Love the info and the style you present !! All the Best Zack, Terry Reid !!
Hi Terry, nice to hear from you and thanks for the kind words!
Do one for mid-size luxury SUVs!
Thank you both for this exciting review of SUVs. I bought Volvo xc 40 B5 (the plus version) for many reasons : the exterior design, the cover of the engine, the screen that looks like a human face, this model has no exhaust pipe, 360 degree camera & all safety features Volvo is known for. I can go on & on & on for many practical features that every human would like to have in a suv vehicle.
Really enjoy the video. Too bad you can't get the RSQ3 only available in Europe!
I test drove it a few years back and was shocked at how well it handled and had comfort on top of it. Priced a little high so must get a significant discount from MSRP
Own two of the models on your list - 2022 Mercedes GLA 35 and 2020 Volvo XC40 T5. The Volvo is quiet and nice to drive but the seat does sit high and I am not a tall person, but works well for my wife. I will stick with my GLA 35 AMG for the sportiness and that large two screens. Great line up.
UX gas (used), or Hybrid is a great value buy. But, it's definitely a 1 or 2 person car. It feels luxurious, but not loaded to be sure. But, I despise buying a car loaded with crap I don't ever use like a sunroof.
Our 2020 UX 200 is great with 30+mpg from day one.
Hard to beat that.
I think between the top five and after seeing your reviews of all of them, the BMW X1 would be my choice. The practicality, the fun to drive, and the technology on board. A Mercedes GLB is a close second. Audi Q3 is definitely a great deal, but it seems to start aging in comparisons.
Great review. I like the BMW X1but a little on back seat room. Enjoy the rest of this special day. I a busy week as wife Birthday Friday and my last Sunday and want to get the wife RAV4 Hybrid but a long wait period.
Andrea is right. The X1 is very sporty looking. Dare I say, masculine within that segment(Especially the front end). When the GLB came out, I hated the look. Now, I too, am starting to come around that boxy design.
Love the list. I would choose the same.
Greetings from Australia. When I started looking for my next new car, came across your channel and the reviews are always thorough and informative!
Any plans to review the new Nissan X-trail E-power? With so many waiting ridiculous lengths of time for RAV4 hybrids, especially in my part of the world, the Nissan might be a worthy of consideration?
Unfortunately that car is not sold here!
Yay. New video!
Lexus UXh is the way to go. Better future proofing comparing to those have mild hybrids or gas competition. It is a small car but it rides well, fuel efficient, quiet and tight turning radius. The interior design is user focused and the fit and finishing is unbeatable. It handles well in snow too believe or not. ❤
XC40 … owned a 2019 T5 and loved it!
I really appreciate your video quality and attention to detail. Shouldn’t the Cadillac XT4 be considered a compact and not a sub-compact?
I would like to see you do a video like this one but for NON LUXURY SUB compact cuv/suvs
Great pick Andrea! Most are good and some not bad gas mileage and price. I like Audi Q3, Volvo XC40 but I like Countryman, it’s a cute car. I am not a big fan of Cadillac but I like their interior tho. BMW is an interesting vehicle because it has a nice boxing looking makes it interior bigger. Great video! 👍🏻👍🏻
Great list and video - but shocked the excellent Porsche Macan didn’t make the honorable mention listing!
The Porsche Macan is actually in the compact class, not sub-compact.
This is the sub-compact. The Macan belongs to the compact category.
X1 all the way for me (better my wife), nice picks for sure, cheers V!
Just bought a dealer used 22 GLB…it’s a great size…hardly feels like a SUV, definitely an improvement over my 14 subaru Impreza!
You should do a comparison between the CX-30 turbo premium and the Mercedes GLA you’d be surprised!
What’s a good 2017 car compact with back up camera
With the Cx-90, do you see Mazda shifting into the luxury category? As I mentioned before, I tried both the Audi and BMW but still found the CX-5 Turbo better overall when considering the price after tax. I would also consider the Genesis gv70 along with Lexus in this segment.
No mazda isnt luxury and never will be they want to be like acura or buick!
2nd thought... I know with my cellphone it burns out within five years on the info technology... So is that what we're to expect with all this new computer technology for operating basic radio heater control etcetera?
Nobody does it better than Motormouth...no bo dy!!!
Well, thank you!
It's funny, but I've found the XC40 to have a bit of a stiff ride. ...also interesting that I didn't find the driving position uncomfortable and I'm also a tall driver. It's high, but that is kind of expected on most SUVs. In terms of comfort, I guess I prefer the French offerings like the Peugeot 3008 or the DS7, but I guess you might not have those over there.
Zack & Andrea The Best , Zack I sent you a photo of my New 2023 white silver metallic mini countryman All 4s Purchased two weeks ago, Traded I’m my 2022 sage green Hyundai Santa Cruz sel premium don’t miss it at all. The Mini is a blast to drive .
Great comment.
But which one has the best fold down back seat for a night of outdoor mile high club?
you look great Andrea! ☺
Love your videos. I think the Volvo is a great value. I like the X1 too but the looks. I have to go with your husband about that 😉
I highly disagree with the comment made about the drivers seat in the XC40 being too high. My partner is 6'6" and is quite comfortable in my XC40. Often times he wants to drive more than me.
If dynamics and fun to drive are top priorities, would you go for new X1 or the Countryman JCW?
We bought our XT5 because the dash was very close with our 2017 CT6. We have had 18 Caddy’s in the last 25 years and we have had no complaints None.
There's something about that GLB. I'm a bit afraid of maintenance costs, though. But I would take the mid-level engine version. It would be awesome if they offered a regular hybrid. That would pretty much tick every box I am looking for.
I test drove 2022 Mercedes gla250, 2023 bmw X1 twice, and the 2024 audi q3 45. The X1 handled like an suv. I don’t remember the gla250. And the Audi Q3 handles like a sports car. Q3 for me all day.
Most reviews of the new X1 are great and as big as gen 1 X3. I was almost sold on it but then saw consumer reports video saying that its ride is choppy and uncomfortable leaving the driver worn out after long drives and also feels very cramped and with a baby seat forget about it.. dont have time to visit dealer to discover the truth plus no guarantee they will allow a test drive.. but am very curious
Would be great to also mention service and maintenance cost within the first 5 years
How does the Audi Q4 e-tron ranks in this or the last top-5 video?
I recently purchased a 2021 Lincoln Corsair standard. I’ve never owned or driven any of your top 5 or honorable mentions. How far is the Corsair from making your list? Just curious. I like the Corsair. I initially bought for my soon to be teen driver. These 4 cylinder or less engines have come a long way. I thought you still needed a v 6 or more to be fun to drive.
The Corsair was the # 2 seller in the US last year after the Lexus NX
UX should have been included in the top five category - come on, you two, It is a real hybrid
and big enough for many of us - besides, while the rest of your Top Fivers are in the shop, the UX motor's on, very quietly, I might add!
its not luxurious though
If you had to buy one, what would it be? I'm honestly leaning between Q3 & X1.
Hi guys...Great information. Coincidentally, my wife and I just leased (this afternoon) a Corolla SE Hybrid AWD. Believe it or not, the dealership expects the vehicle to arrive in EARLY MAY of 3023...are delivery dates improving "across the board", or did we just get lucky (cancellation perhaps).
a millennium from now?
Great comparison - as always - well done, informative and fun to watch! For me - decided to get an Audi Q3 last year, finally had it delivered in January and absolutely love it - was the perfect choice for us ! Where I think the Q3 is best in class is it’s awesome infotainment system - very intuitive, easy to use - the satellite maps are phenomenal - as someone who has always had been fascinated by geography - I like having the ‚driver‘s view‘ map shown on the virtual cockpit screen and the map showing the entire journey on the centre screen (with North vertically on top) - both as satellite maps - don’t think any of the competitors can do that. Also love the design - clear lines, well defined - elegant, ‚clean’ yet sporty. The BMW X1‘s drive and feel may very well outperform the Q3 - but for our usual driving patterns performance is not the only thing that matters - and Audi‘s user interface is the most convincing to us. As you put it so well: a really great Allrounder - perfect for us! And even though the current model generation came out four years ago, it still looks modern and fresh! Last but not least: the fact that - unlike all our previous cars - it runs on regular gas is definitely a plus !!!
My wife has the 2023 BMW X1 but I like the interior of the GLB
Give me cooled or ventilated seats , plus brake hold . guess have to go Cadillac by default ! or maybe the top trim cx 5 from Mazda , its got more features , and looks damn good !
Glb xc40 and x1 best in class by far.
Good Choices 👍🙂. Happy suprise that Cadillac made the list
As I said, I had a lot of fun with it!
I wish the digital panel was able to slide over in front of the passenger. There is too much on it for the driver to handle especially in traffic. I’m always the driver, so I never really become really familiar with the operation of the system. The wife uses it from the passenger seat while having to lean to the left. Be nice if it would move back and forth.
Racing in the Street a good choice for test driving a Beemer!
For the leg room in the backseats - there should be an objective criterion to measure space, like a cardboard, or a pillow, if it drops between your knees and the seat, enough room, if it is stuck, minimal space, if the pillow does not even fit, clearly no space.
An S..Q3 would be very exciting …E STREET radio !👍
Audi Q3 and BMW X1 are definitely my picks, when it comes to handling/ride and interior quality. I have never been a fans of FWD-based Mercedes, ever since the original A-Class. GLA and GLB are just felt underwhelming, even if they have improved a lot over any of its A and B-Class predecessors. While UX is a great hybrid choice, I would definitely paid a premium to upgrade to the new NX, with the new infotainment system.
The Audi are also FWD based cars.
@@miks564 But Audi is known for both FWD and AWD. Mercedes, just like BMW, have their RWD heritage locked. Their FWD execution feels watered down.
@@A3A4Tom If you put it that way, I have to agree with you. 🙂
I have to admit, I'm surprised the Cadillac even made the list here. The Cadillac XT4 isn't bad looking, but the interior, like other entry/mid-level Cadillacs, suffer from subpar materials and a somewhat dated IP/Infotainment controller. But I've never driven one so what do I know.
15:50 The Merc GLB has an EV version now as well.
I have a XC40. I'm 6'2 you just have to low the seat with your left hand, it's not hard to do guys 😂 I fit perfect and there's so much room above for my head
Is the X1 truly 25/34 Mpgs compared to Merc's 22/30?! Could it really be that much more fuel efficient...
I would pick Lexus
I love my Volvo XC 60 my best selection.
Why are people complaining about the xc40 ride height?
Seems like the luxury SUV's get a lot more horsepower and no cvt.
I see a division forming between the haves and have-nots.
I'm actually not able to afford a new vehicle my current car is all I have and it will be paid for by Apr 29 2024 thanks for the presentation
There’s only one problem with the Cadillac. It’s made by GM enough said.
Someone had to say it! 😅
Girrrrrl, don’t run that Toyota and Tesla over! 🤣 🤣 🤣 Great vid!
Still waiting for a review of 2023 Jaguar F-Pace. Would love to get your thoughts if it’s worth considering or not
When you choose an SUV look for reliability first it is just a car after all. In this category I would pick up 2023 Lexus GX with upgrated interior or 2023 Toyota 4Runner Anniversary Adition. Because I am sure of its quality and it did not broke in the mid of the road during winter months.
GX is mid-size not subcompact!
@@Motormouth... Everything that is smoller than Cadillac Escalade is subcompact in my opinion.
Does anyone know when the new GLC and GLC Coupe are coming out this year?
The new GLC should be arriving in the spring sometime.
@@andreaspencer9813 thanks!
Can't wait to test drive it.
@@rubenbarrera7338 Same!
Glc coupe with the updated interior(large screen) will be out in August. Friend of mine that works for Mercedes told me this.
@@Stephsade88 Awesome! Thanks for the info!
I'm trying to decide between either the old 22 or the new 23 coupe.
AUdi Q3 or Lexus NX 350Hybrid in terms of reliability??
Why not mention the X2 with the X1 (even if it is based on the previous generation, it is still a good choice)?
Because the X2 is no longer offered for sale from BMW in North America, it's out of production until the new model is announced.
What's the new info-technology, can you say something like," Alexis turn the heat down on the seats?"
This is awesome .. Mercedes all the way for me!
Glad you enjoyed it, thank you!
I read on google that the Volvo XC40 is made in China? Is that correct? (that doesn't sound right)
They are made in Belgium.