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8 Great Used Luxury SUVs

A black  2020 Honda Pilot Elite is shown after shopping for used SUVs for sale.

Buying a new vehicle can be expensive, especially if you’re looking at larger models like SUVs, which take more materials to build and often offer pricey features that bring the cost up further. Looking at used SUVs for sale brings all of those price tags down a notch. This means that people who can’t afford a new SUV can get something within their price range, and it can also be a great idea for drivers who can afford some new SUVs but are hoping to get something truly luxurious that would normally be out of reach.

Used luxury SUVs can give you a lot of bang for your buck, allowing you to afford models that aren’t just stylish inside and out but also loaded with comfort features that make every drive more enjoyable. However, not all models are created equal, and some lose their luster more quickly than others. Today, we’re going to look at eight used SUVs that are both luxurious and built to last, and recommend some model years that are worth looking out for so you can find something that’s a perfect fit for you.

#1 - Lexus RX (2017 - 2022): The Classic Pick

The midsize Lexus RX is widely considered to be the first luxury crossover SUV, having debuted for the 1998 model year, and it’s still a good choice for drivers who want an interior that’s not just lush but large and a vehicle that’s not just radiant but reliable. The fourth generation of the Lexus RX launched for the 2016 model year, but we recommend a 2017 model or newer to make sure you get both the fourth-gen styling refresh and the suite of driver assistance tech that was made standard that year. If you need three rows of seating, you’ll need to look for a 2018 model or newer since that’s when the longer RXL was added to the lineup.

#2 - Acura RDX (2013 - 2018): The Retro Pick

Luxury can come at a price, and one way to lower costs is to look at older models. Of course, that means you have to be even more selective to make sure you’re getting something safe and reliable. If you’re looking for an older model that you can count on, we recommend checking out Acura, Honda’s luxury division. The RDX is a compact SUV that has a comfortable interior made with upscale materials and a sleek, timeless exterior. You can go as far back as the second generation from 2013 and still get modern conveniences like a power tailgate, one-touch folding rear seats, push-button start, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

A white 2017 Acura RDX is shown rounding a corner.

#3 - Volvo XC40 (2021 - 2022): The Bold Pick

Many luxury SUVs work to make their exteriors feel sleek and car-like. But if you want to present the bold and boxy style of a vehicle that looks unmistakably like an SUV, you can opt for something like the subcompact Volvo XC40. That boxy look comes in handy when it comes to providing plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. Despite its conveniently small exterior, the cabin makes great use of its space with a variety of cubbies that make it easy to stay organized. For the 2021 model year, several desirable features were made standard across the lineup, including power-folding auto-dimming side view mirrors, adaptive LED headlights, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, a pair of USB-C ports for backseat passengers, and leather upholstery.

#4 - Genesis GV70 (2022 - 2023): The Novel Pick

Many luxury brands have a long history and feel obligated to provide their customers with a classic look and feel. If you want something that’s outside of the box but still decidedly high-end, check out the Genesis GV70. Genesis is a luxury spinoff from Hyundai that launched in 2015, so it’s not quite a move-fast-and-break-things upstart, but it’s also not constrained by a storied legacy. The compact GV70 came out of the gate for the 2022 model year with standard all-wheel drive, athletic driving dynamics, and an available remote self-parking feature. It also has a look all its own, with a unique grille and segmented headlights that are sure to turn heads.

#5 - Buick Envision (2017 - 2020): The Affordable Pick

Even when shopping for a used vehicle, getting a top-tier luxury SUV can be out of reach for some shoppers. But you can still get something more distinguished than your run-of-the-mill model. A great example of this is the Buick Envision. This compact SUV has a cabin that’s quiet thanks to active noise cancellation, comfortable thanks to quality soft-touch materials, and spacious––particularly in the back seat. The exterior is classy and wouldn’t look out of place at a formal event. But it’s still a tier down from General Motors’ most luxurious brand, Cadillac, and it’s priced accordingly. Opt for the first-generation Envision, and you’ll still be able to get a large touchscreen, power lumbar, and a power liftgate. Skip over the debut 2016 model, and you’ll be sure to have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

#6 - Porsche Macan (2019 - 2022): The Sporty Pick

Most drivers are willing to pay extra for luxury brands in order to get a swanky cabin or high-class exterior aesthetic. But if you’d rather have a sportier take on luxury, Porsche has got you covered. The Macan is a compact SUV that’s quick, powerful, and truly a joy to drive. For the 2019 model year, it got updated styling that still looks fresh and modern by today’s standards, and engine upgrades on several trims deliver even more power. The downside of this model is you’ll have to keep an eye out for luxurious interior amenities like heated seats and leather trim because they don’t come standard across the board. But if you find a used example that’s configured to your liking, you’ll get a driving experience like no other.

#7 - Cadillac Escalade (2017 - 2020): The Large and in Charge Pick

A black 2020 Cadillac Escalade is shown driving on a city street.

We’ve stuck mainly to compact models on this list because compact SUVs are quite popular, and a lot of drivers prefer their balance of roomy interior space and reasonable overall size. But if you want to go all out on a full-size, three-row luxury model, then you can turn to the Cadillac Escalade or even the extra-long Escalade ESV. These models are based on the platforms of the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban but come spruced up with an interior packed with features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The 2017 model year introduced high-tech amenities worth having at your disposal, like a rearview mirror that switches between a traditional mirror and a wide-view HD camera and an automatic parking assist feature that gives you a hand maneuvering this behemoth into a parking space.

#8 - BMW X1 (2020 - 2022): The Fun Yet Practical Pick

Some used SUV models are especially practical but less than thrilling, while others are fun to take out for a pleasure drive but not great for everyday getting around. The subcompact BMW X1 strikes a good middle ground with powerful engine options and solid handling paired with a surprisingly spacious cabin that has plenty of room for cargo. For the 2020 model year, the X1 got a front end with a larger grille and more attitude, and the large 8.8-inch touchscreen that had previously been optional became standard. On top of that, the transmission got an upgrade for faster and smoother action, adding to its appeal with drivers who think that getting there really should be half the fun.

#9 - Honda Pilot (2019 - 2022): The Understated Pick

While traditional luxury brands like BMW, Cadillac, and Porsche draw a lot of attention on the road, not every driver is looking for that. Sometimes you want all the comforts of a luxury SUV without the look-at-me elements that driving a well-known luxury model brings. In that case, a used Honda Pilot is a great pick. Although Honda isn't typically considered a luxury brand, leaving its Acura division to compete in the high-end car market, Honda is known for providing a more premium experience than your typical mass-market brand and the third-generation Honda Pilot is a great example of this. The 2019 update brought a ton of luxury features to the vehicle, especially in its top Touring and Elite trims. This includes details like a hands-free power tailgate, acoustic glass in the front doors for reduced road noise, and even illuminated beverage holders so you can find your drinks at night! Of course, you also get more traditional luxury elements, like perforated leather seats that are both heated and ventilated and a powerful 590-watt sound system.