Automotive publications create ratings lists for different vehicle segments to provide consumers with the best advice. Automotive research can be overwhelming for many Americans, especially drivers who don’t identify as car enthusiasts. Many consumers rely on rating lists from respected automotive publications to narrow down their vehicle searches. Car and Driver ranks one SUV above all others small luxury SUVs.
Car and Driver calls the Porsche Macan the best small luxury SUV
Car and Driver ranks the Porsche Macan above the Mercedes-AMG GLC43/GLC64, BMW X3 and Genesis GV70. Surprisingly, the Macan doesn’t make it to the top of many other ranking lists from other automotive publications. Its price makes it harder to buy than models like the X3 and GV70.
The 2023 Porsche Macan starts at $57,500. The Porsche Macan uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to generate 261 horsepower. It gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. The small luxury SUV comes standard with all-wheel drive. It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 6.0 seconds.
The 2023 Porsche Macan is praised for its driving dynamics, attractive exterior design, and exciting powertrain options. The Macan comes standard with Sport-Tex and part leather-trimmed seats, a smooth-finish leather sports steering wheel with paddle shifters, and adaptive cruise control. It also includes heated front seats, lane departure warning and Porsche front and rear ParkAssist.
Edmunds praises the Macan’s refined cabin, acceleration and handling. The Macan has only been in production since 2014, making it a younger model than many of its rivals. BMW has been producing its small luxury SUV, the X3, since 2003.
Is the Porsche Macan really the best luxury small SUV?
So Car and Driver ranks the Macan above other luxury small SUVs, but does that really mean it’s the best in its segment? The short answer is that the general public will likely opt for a more affordable small luxury SUV than the Porsche Macan.
Porsche’s small luxury SUV comes with plenty of advantages, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. BMW and Genesis offer more affordable luxury small SUVs that are drawing a lot of praise. In fact, many automotive publications consider the 2023 Genesis GV70 to be the best luxury small SUV on the market.
car and driver gave the GV70 a perfect overall score in their review of the popular new Genesis SUV. The post alludes to the superior value proposition of the Genesis GV70 compared to other models in its segment. The 2023 Genesis GV70 starts at just $42,900, but its cabin and exterior are just as stylish as its pricier competitors.
The GV70 has great engine options, a luxurious interior, and comes in many different trim levels with varying degrees of affordability for different budgets. Genesis has a hit on its hands.
Which small luxury SUV should you buy?
The best small luxury SUV for you is the one that best fits your budget. Thanks to automakers like Genesis, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a luxury ownership experience. The BMW X3 is also a great option with a longer production history than the GV70 and Porsche Macan.
When it comes to value for money, the 2023 Genesis GV70 seems to be a standout model due to its affordable price. It’s easy to see why Car and Driver would call the Macan the top dog, but there are plenty of other more affordable luxury small SUVs worth considering.