A modest used car budget of $15,000 can get you a pretty nice luxury SUV. Compact, midsize, and full-size luxury SUVs are abundant on the used market, and some of them are more affordable than you might expect.
Here are the 10 best used luxury SUVs under $15,000 on Autotrader.
1. 2010 Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is a family-friendly midsize luxury SUV, thanks to its 3-row seating and fantastic safety scores. It has excellent handling for its size, and we like the strong standard V6 engine. The interior offers an attractive design with comfortable seats, but the third row is better suited for children. See Acura MDX models for sale
2. 2011 Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 captures the brand ethos with handsome styling, a posh interior, and an engaging drive. An efficient new base engine was introduced in 2011, making it an ideal model year to consider. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system comes standard, which is good news for drivers in snowy climates. See Audi Q5 models for sale
3. 2011 BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a midsize luxury SUV with athletic driving dynamics and good safety ratings. You probably won’t find the high-performance M model in this price range, but the more modest engines are still lively, and there’s a fuel-efficient diesel option. There’s an optional third row of seats, but it’s very cramped. See BMW X5 models for sale
4. 2009 Cadillac Escalade
The full-size Cadillac Escalade is a big SUV with truck-like capabilities. Choose from multiple V8 engine options, a short or long wheelbase, and even a pickup option. It may be aging, but the imposing aesthetic of the third-generation Escalade still commands attention today. See Cadillac Escalade models for sale
5. 2010 Infiniti FX
The Infiniti FX may have a tight cargo hold, but it’s suitable for drivers looking for something a little unconventional in luxury SUVs. The base V6 engine in the FX35 strikes a nice balance of performance and efficiency, and the handling is stunningly sporty for an SUV. See Infiniti FX models for sale
6. 2011 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The Range Rover Sport is a family-friendly alternative to the standard Range Rover with more road-friendly handling and 3-row seating. However, it’s still an excellent off-roader with standard 4-wheel drive. In classic Land Rover fashion, it has a rugged yet premium aesthetic inside and out. See Land Rover Range Rover Sport models for sale
7. 2010 Lexus RX
It’s easy to see why the Lexus RX is so popular. This midsize luxury SUV is just-right-sized for drivers looking for roomy passenger and cargo space but doesn’t need three rows of seats. It’s also safe, reliable, and fuel-efficient, making it a practical choice in premium SUVs. See Lexus RX models for sale
8. 2011 Lincoln MKX
The Lincoln MKX got a nice overhaul for the 2011 model year. It has a potent yet efficient standard V6 engine and a premium interior with plenty of space. It had a nice list of standard features when new, like leather seats, 10-speaker audio, and much more, which means any MKX you find in this price range is well-appointed. See Lincoln MKX models for sale
9. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was the precursor to the GLC-Class as the brand’s compact SUV offering. The GLK had boxier styling plus the stout power and agile handling you’d expect from a Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes introduced a sporty AMG appearance package in 2011. See Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class models for sale
10. 2009 Porsche Cayenne
The post-facelift 955 generation of the Porsche Cayenne (2008-2010 model years) is in the sweet spot of value for drivers looking for Porsche’s unique brand of luxury and performance in the form of a practical SUV. It also has standard all-wheel drive, which gives it a better grip on the road and modest off-roading capabilities. See Porsche Cayenne models for sale
10 Best Used Luxury SUVs Under $15,000
- 2010 Acura MDX
- 2011 Audi Q5
- 2011 BMW X5
- 2009 Cadillac Escalade
- 2010 Infiniti FX
- 2011 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
- 2010 Lexus RX
- 2011 Lincoln MKX
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
- 2009 Porsche Cayenne