When looking at used SUVs for sale, you’ll, of course, notice that the prices are much lower than those of brand-new models. There are two main ways that shoppers use this difference in price: get the same kind of model they might get if they were buying a new SUV and pocket the difference in price for a rainy day or use that difference to upgrade to something nicer than they could afford if they were shopping new. The latter is a great way to experience the quality and comfort of a luxury model without spending an arm and a leg.
Today, we’re going to take a look at six luxury SUVs that are worth keeping an eye out for when you come in to explore our extensive pre-owned inventory here at NJ State Auto Used Cars. We’ve selected a range of different sizes and niches so you can find something that fits your needs. Across the board, we’ve put heavy emphasis on reliability because no number of cabin amenities is going to be a comfort to you if your SUV breaks down a few weeks into ownership. Stick with a trusted model, and you can drive with confidence and comfort. Need some guidance? Stop by and talk with our team today, and they’ll be sure to show you some affordable luxury options.
#1 – Acura RDX
If you’re interested in the reliability and practicality of the Honda CR-V but want something more upscale, the Acura RDX will deliver. Honda’s luxury division first unveiled this model for the 2007 model year and while the first generation had some hiccups regarding styling and ride quality, the 2013 refresh turned the compact SUV into a refined vehicle with plenty of power, a comfortable ride, and a well-appointed interior. Sticking to the generation that ran from 2013-2018 can be a smart move if you want an affordable price and don’t prioritize modern tech features. If you do opt for a model from 2019 or newer, you’ll be able to take advantage of great features like a 10.2-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and ambient lighting.
#2 – BMW X5
A midsize SUV with premium looks and smooth handling, the BMW X5 has a good balance of benefits. The cabin is nice and quiet so that you can have a peaceful experience out on the road, but powerful engines are available if you’d prefer a more thrilling drive. The design inside and out will certainly give you the look of luxury, and there’s not as much of a pronounced difference between the looks of different generations as you’ll find on some vehicles, so you can get an older model without looking out of touch. The latest generation (2019-present) definitely has some perks, both in the infotainment setup and under the hood, but you can certainly find models from the previous generation (2014-2018) that have great driver assistance features like lane departure warning, intuitive voice controls, and other modern conveniences.
#3 – Cadillac Escalade
Roomy and reliable, the Cadillac Escalade has long been a favorite among drivers who want a luxury experience, with three rows of seating and plenty of towing power for bringing a small boat or trailer along for the ride. Since it rides on the same platform as its Chevy counterpart, you can expect a used model to last for a while, even if it’s logged its fair share of miles on the road. However, this upscale version is a far cry from the Tahoe and Suburban, with a refined exterior style and a cabin bursting with amenities and premium materials like leather and wood. All trims should provide plenty of power, but you can look to the high-performance Escalade V if you want as many ponies as possible at your disposal.
Stick with the 2016 model year and newer if you’re looking for features like Apple CarPlay and Lane Keep Assist and the 2018 year and newer for the smoother ride of a 10-speed automatic transmission instead of an 8-speed. A refresh for 2021 made the cabin larger and added even more tech, but since this generation is still running, models from this era will probably be more expensive. If you’re worried about fuel economy, keep an eye out for a diesel powertrain, which can be found on models from 2021 to 2024.
#4 – Audi Q7
You don’t have to go all the way up to a full-size model to get a three-row luxury SUV with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The midsize Audi Q7 handles with more agility than you might expect given its spacious cabin, which is pleasantly decorated with natural materials for a timeless look and elegant feel. It delivers a smooth and quiet ride and offers a great slate of safety features, many of which come standard on more recent models. Stick to 2021 and newer for an array of standard driver assistance tools that includes blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic assist, but many advanced safety systems have been available for a while, so you can easily find a well-appointed option from the 2017 to 2019 model years if you know what you’re looking for.
#5 – Lexus UX
There are a few different ways to find a luxury SUV that’s in your price range beyond just looking at used models generally. As we’ve mentioned a few times, going back a generation can get you a better price, but of course, that comes at the expense of modern style and tech features. Another strategy is to downsize—a subcompact model like the Lexus UX will be more affordable simply because it takes fewer resources for an automaker to produce and will also save you money on fuel over time. Subcompact models are also easier to park on the street and maneuver in tight spaces, so you’re less likely to damage the paint job on your luxury ride with dents and scrapes.
The UX has only been around since the 2019 model year, so even the oldest models have perks like Apple CarPlay and an available hybrid powertrain. While this entry-level luxury model won’t be quite as lush as others on the list, the interior design does a good job overall at bestowing the cabin with a distinctly upscale feel, and plenty of amenities are packed into the small body. From the 2023 model year onward, the UX is available exclusively as a hybrid, so if you stick to newer models, you’ll be sure to get fantastic fuel economy and a smaller carbon footprint.
#6 – Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Even used, a Range Rover will cost you considerable money, thanks to its combination of luxury amenities, brand prestige, and serious off-road chops. If you want that combination at a more accessible price point, the Range Rover Sport is a good pick. While by no means “cheap,” this shorter alternative is within reach of more drivers, especially if you stick with something from a previous generation like the one that ran from the 2014 to 2022 model years. For 2014, the body got a new construction with more lightweight aluminum, improving fuel economy and ride quality in one fell stroke, so we wouldn’t recommend going any older than that if you can help it. Stick to 2020 and newer if you want to find a plug-in hybrid variant that’s even more efficient and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.
The Range Rover Sport has an aesthetically pleasing and well-appointed interior that fits right in with this list. But its capability on-road and off is what makes it truly stand out from the pack. Whether you’re tackling twisty roads in rural areas or leaving the pavement behind altogether, you’ll appreciate the exceptional suspension system and high level of power that you’ll get from this mid-size SUV.