Editorial Picks: Compact executive SUVs below $380,000

These SUVs will not only convey you from location to location in effortless fashion, but also come with serene and well-appointed cabins. And they should still be small enough, so you won’t have trouble squeezing them into the confines of some of our city's tightest carparks.

In this series, the Editorial Team will explore different segments of the car market. We'll highlight some picks that you should consider, and also breakdown some of the pros and cons you should look out for.

And these are some of the best compact executive SUVs that can be had from $370,000, alongside some of their pros and cons. (All prices correct at time of publishing.)

For the go-getter: The BMW X3

Price: $359,888

Depreciation: $32,600/yr

BMW's X3 20 delivers on sleekness and tasty angularity while offering just the right amount of aggressiveness.

Inside, you'll find the firm's 12.3-inch multifunctional instrument display and a high resolution 14.9-inch control display featuring prominently on the car's dashboard alongside sports seats upholstered in Veganza perforated leather.

But why you really get this BMW X3 is because it possesses many strengths that you can't actually see. This latest iteration of the car feels outright agile to drive, thanks to eager turn-in and some impressive control over unwanted body movement. And of course, a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine delivering a total of 188bhp and 310Nm means you won't be found wanting when the lights turn green. Find yourself always running late for the next boardroom meeting? This BMW X3 should fit you nicely.

Just don't get one with the M Sport package if you also value ride comfort. We found just such a specified car rather unsettled for a premium product when we tested it back in December 2024. And at a $13,000 premium, we don’t think its necessarily money well spent.

Pros:

• The newest of the bunch here
• Pairs impressive handling with all the space and practical points of an SUV
• An SUV that’s actually engaging to drive!

Cons:

• Not as fast as the variants from before

For whom class and elegance are calling cards: The Mercedes-Benz GLC

Price: $372,888

Depreciation: $33,700/yr

The Mercedes-Benz GLC may be a little long in the tooth, but this example equipped with a 201bhp four-cylinder is hoping to renew interest in the three-pointed star amongst those looking for a premium compact SUV.

To sum, this new engine never feels strained and proves sufficient to haul the body of the GLC about - the fact that it's mated to a slick nine-speed gearbox no doubt aiding affairs. But you'll really be swept off your feet once you step within this SUV's cabin: Its black open-pore wood trim on the dashboard is both a treat to see and touch, while its 11.9-inch infotainment display makes use of an impressive colour palette.

So, should this be your pick of this bunch? Well, if all these points appeal then do temper your expectations with the fact that the new generation GLC has already been revealed, decked with a massive infotainment screen and some sleek new looks. Still, if you're looking to secure your own three-pointed star at a reasonably appealing price, this could be the opportune time.

Pros:

• It's comfortable, quiet and effortless - all points you're likely to be looking for in an SUV and a Mercedes
• Quality materials used in its cabin

Cons:

• The next-generation GLC has already been revealed

For those who know how to stop and smell the roses: Lexus NX

Price: $373,800

Depreciation: $33,500/yr

The Lexus NX may not be the latest in this segment, but it's still a great all-rounder.  With its great front grille, full-width taillights and sharp creases, it's one appealing car to simply look at. Step within and you'll find a 14-inch touchscreen-only display that is clear, sharp and responsive, and of course, the amount of space on offer is also ample for the whole family. And all this comes on top of its sizeable 520-litre boot, plush rear seats, and some lovely deep-pile carpets.

But what sets this Lexus NX apart from the other options here is the fact that is makes use of a hybrid drivetrain. Delivering a claimed fuel economy of 20km/L, the Lexus NX ensures that your fuel bill in minimised, even if your work situation calls for longer journeys. Do note, however, that we did find this NX's drivetrain prone to delivering quite a bit of engine drone, a consequence of its continuously variable transmission.

In short, make this Lexus NX yours if you appreciate elegant design and have a taste for luxurious materials, but also have the luxury to travel at your own time.

Pros:

• It makes use of a hybrid drivetrain
• Looks good and is an equally good place to sit in

Cons:

• Hybrid drivetrain means you’ll have to live with some engine droning

Used pick: Audi Q5

Depreciation: $27,000/yr - $21,000/yr

There may be a new Audi Q5 in town, but if you're looking for the premium driving experience that the brand delivers, a used option could get you there at a more approachable price.

We found the previous iteration of the car hard to fault when it came to cabin build quality and walked away impressed with its boot space as well as its outright performance compared to its rivals when we drove it in October of 2022.

Pros:

• Combines neat handling with impressive performance
• A thoroughly well-built and functional cabin

Cons:

• Design both inside and out is conservative next to rivals

You can see available listings of this model here and also read our review of the car here.

And don't forget to check out these other Editorial Picks:

Mid-sized Cat B hybrid SUVs under $275k!

Premium plug-in hybrid SUVs around $350k!

Electric SUV below $200k and above 200bhp