Luxury subcompact SUVs sound like a small category, but they’re pretty competitive. As the year comes to a close, the 2023 BMW X1 took the top spot on this list of luxury subcompact SUVs. What is it about this BMW sport utility vehicle that makes it worthy of the number one spot? Undoubtedly, the myriad of modern technology and security features help.
The best luxury subcompact SUV is the 2023 BMW X1
Kelley’s Blue Book has been hard at work testing sport utility vehicles all year long. Brands had to offer a slew of tech and security updates to keep up, but one stood out. The 2023 BMW X1 has grown a lot since it first hit the market. It has better style and makes better use of the interior space, making it appear larger than it is.
A new curved display houses the center infotainment display and digital instrument cluster. BMW’s iDrive has received another update that makes it easier to control everything from the climate system to the radio. What’s even more fun is that you can talk to the car and it will talk back to you. Just say, “Hello, BMW” and give it directions.
On top of that, BMW included many standard safety features that helped pave the way for this luxury subcompact SUV. Blind spot monitoring and forward collision avoidance are helpful. A new exit warning feature alerts the driver if a cyclist is approaching from behind. Adaptive Cruise Control and Extended Traffic Jam Assist are available, but not always standard.
What else makes the 2023 BMW X1 the best luxury subcompact SUV?
The 2023 BMW X1 didn’t win the title of best subcompact luxury SUV by chance. Equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 241 hp feels like a lot of power for the X1. That’s also 13 hp more than last year’s version. BMW also upped the torque from 258 lb-ft to 295. Paired with the new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, you have a pretty powerful luxury SUV.
It also comes equipped with all-wheel drive as standard, making it even more versatile. Buyers these days definitely need a vehicle that can do it all. From shopping trips to summer road trips and every commute in between, the 2023 BMW X1 is the best luxury subcompact SUV for the new year.
The 2023 X1 SUV starts at $39,100, gets 34 mpg and has a 0-60 time of 6.2 seconds. BMW didn’t offer any trim levels with the X1 as it comes pretty neat from the factory.
If BMW isn’t your style, Audi and Mercedes have some luxury options
Second, the 2023 Audi Q3 is another good choice for a luxury subcompact SUV. It starts at $37,595 and also comes with all-wheel drive. The interior is quite luxurious and well equipped.
Finally, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA arrived right after that. Starting at $38,495, Mercedes sets the standard for luxury compact SUVs. It has plenty of modern technology and safety features, not to mention exciting engine options.
While the X1 might not be the best choice for all buyers, it’s a solid contender for the best luxury subcompact SUVs of 2023.