When looking for used cars, many shoppers often lean towards luxury SUV models, which can include standard safety features, comfortable interiors, advanced technology, and exquisite exterior styling. However, with a budget of $15,000, it could be hard to find a quality luxury vehicle.

Despite being almost a decade old, the 2014 model year seems to be a sweet spot for dependable cars. Here are four used small luxury SUVs with excellent reliability scores and average used car pricing in line with a $15K budget.

NOTE: Regardless of a used car’s reliability score, always obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim, level, mileage, overall condition, and location.

1. 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK offers great value and is one of the best used small luxury SUVs on the market. The high-performance vehicle was named the Best Compact Premium SUV of 2014 and awarded the J.D. Power Dependability Award with an overall score of 85/100. 

The 2014 model year earned a quality and reliability score of 89/100 from J. D. Power and also got high marks for its resale value and driving experience.

Owners reportedly enjoy the vehicle’s maneuverability, ease of folding/adjusting rear seats, and rear visibility. What they don’t like is the limited trunk space, the feel of the seat material, and the vehicle’s navigation system.

A used 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK has an affordable price range between $13,705 and $16,352, making it an excellent choice for shoppers with a $15,000 budget.

2. 2014 BMW X3

The 2014 BMW X3 gets its energetic prowess from a two-liter Inline four-cylinder gas engine that generates 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque when paired with an eight-speed shiftable automatic transmission.

The used price range falls well below a budget of $15K, landing somewhere between $11,079 and $14,153, depending on factors such as trim level, mileage, condition, etc.

With an overall score of 82/100, J.D. Power claims the 2014 BMW X3 offers “great” reliability with a score of 83/100. The score of 81/100 for driving experience can be attributed to owners liking the smoothness of the transmission and the way the vehicle handles on curves. They did not like the audio system, seat material, or heating and air conditioning system.

3. 2014 Volvo XC60

The 2014 Volvo XC60 is another good choice for shoppers looking for a used small luxury SUV, with an average price range of $11,272 to $13,846.

J.D. Power gives the XC60 a “great” reliability and quality score of 83/100 and an overall score of 80/100. The auto reviewer claims owners like the comfort of the second-row seats, the amount of trunk/hatch space, and the “feeling of safety when driving the vehicle.” However, owners do not like the lackluster acceleration and unimpressive maneuverability, resulting in an average driving experience score of 78/100.

4. 2014 Acura RDX

The 2014 Acura RDX receives an overall score of 79/100 from J.D. Power, with a “great” reliability score of 83/100. The compact premium SUV has an average used car price range of $13,281 to $17,127.

According to J.D. Power, owners like the amount of trunk space, the comfortable second-row seating, and the sound of the engine/exhaust. They do not like the voice recognition and Bluetooth, the styling of the dashboard, or the way the vehicle handles on curves.

Receiving a total redesign in 2013, the Acura RDX remained unchanged in the 2014 model year, with Edmunds choosing it as the Best Used Luxury SUV for 2014. They claim, “ample power, strong fuel economy and outstanding rear legroom make the 2014 Acura RDX a solid choice for a premium small crossover.”