Automotive publications create rankings lists for different vehicle segments to give consumers the best advice. Automotive research can be daunting to many Americans, especially for drivers that don’t identify as automotive enthusiasts. Many consumers rely on ranking lists from respected automotive publications to narrow down their vehicle searches. Car and Driver ranks one SUV above all other small luxury SUVs.

Car and Driver calls the Porsche Macan the best small luxury SUV

Car and Driver ranks the Porsche Macan over the Mercedes-AMG GLC43/GLC64, BMW X3, and Genesis GV70. The Macan surprisingly doesn’t make it to the top of many other ranking lists by other automotive publications. Its pricing makes it harder to purchase 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 make 261 horsepower. It achieves 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 0-60 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 partial leather and Sport-Tex trimmed seats, a smooth-finish leather sport 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 compliments the Macan’s refined cabin, acceleration, and handling. The Macan has only been in production since 2014, so it’s a younger nameplate than many of its rivals. BMW has been producing its small luxury SUV, the X3, since 2003.

Is the Porsche Macan really the best small luxury SUV?

So, Car and Driver ranks the Macan over other small luxury SUVs, but does that really mean it’s the best in its segment? The short answer is, the general public will likely go for a more affordable small luxury SUV over the Porsche Macan.

Porsche’s small luxury SUV comes with plenty of perks, but it also comes with a high price tag. BMW and Genesis both offer more affordable small luxury SUVs that are receiving plenty of praise. In fact, many automotive publications consider the 2023 Genesis GV70 to be the best small luxury SUV on the market.

Car and Driver gave the GV70 a perfect overall score in its review of Genesis’ popular new SUV. The publication alludes to the Genesis GV70’s superior value proposition compared to other models in its segment. The 2023 Genesis GV70 starts at just $42,900, yet its cabin and exterior are just as classy as more expensive competitors.

The GV70 has great engine options, a luxurious interior, and it comes in plenty of different trim levels with varying degrees of affordability for different budgets. Genesis has a hit on its hands.

What small luxury SUV should you get?

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 both the GV70 and the Porsche Macan.

When it comes to value for the money, the 2023 Genesis GV70 seems to be a standout model because of its affordable pricing. It’s easy to see why Car and Driver would call the Macan the top dog, but there are plenty of other more affordable small luxury SUVs worth your consideration.