Top 10 Luxury SUVs 2022 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2022 model year, the Best Overall luxury SUV is the Genesis GV70, starting at $42,595. It was an all-new model for 2022 and it instantly out-punched the segment on value, warranty, and standard equipment while driving like a proper sport SUV. The Best Value pick is the Acura MDX, starting at $48,000, which delivers a fully redesigned three-row cabin, a strong 290-hp V6, and Acura's reputation for low ownership cost for thousands less than a comparably equipped German rival.

The rest of this guide ranks eight more 2022 luxury SUVs so you can match a model to your budget, your family size, and your tolerance for premium-fuel running costs.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each 2022 luxury SUV across six categories. These weights reflect what actually drives long-term satisfaction for premium buyers, not just spec-sheet bragging rights.

• Interior quality & comfort — 25%: material grade, seat comfort, cabin quietness, rear-seat space, and ride refinement.
• Reliability & ownership cost — 20%: brand reliability history, warranty length, projected depreciation, and fuel/maintenance costs.
• Performance & powertrain — 15%: horsepower, drivability, transmission smoothness, and the breadth of engine or hybrid options.
• Tech & features — 15%: infotainment usability, standard driver assistance, sound systems, and connectivity.
• Safety — 15%: IIHS and NHTSA crash results plus standard active-safety content.
• Price-to-performance — 10%: how much capability, equipment, and luxury you get for the 2022 MSRP.

Sources include Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), U.S. News, the IIHS, and the EPA. All prices are 2022 model-year MSRP in USD, and all fuel-economy figures are EPA estimates for the 2022 model year.

1. Genesis GV70 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $42,595 | Best for: Buyers who want maximum luxury, warranty, and standard kit per dollar.

The 2022 GV70 launched as Genesis's compact SUV and immediately set the value benchmark. The base 2.5T makes 300 hp and 311 lb-ft, while the 3.5T Sport steps up to a 375-hp twin-turbo V6; both pair with an 8-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.

EPA estimates run about 22 city / 28 highway mpg for the 2.5T. Cargo is a modest roughly 16 cubic feet, so this is a style-and-luxury play rather than a hauler. The cabin punches far above its price with quilted leather and a wide touchscreen, and Genesis backs it with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Pros:

• Lowest entry price of any genuinely premium SUV here.
• Class-leading warranty and complimentary maintenance.
• 300-plus hp standard with standard AWD.
• Cabin design and materials shame pricier rivals.

Cons:

• Tight cargo hold for the segment.
• Newer brand means a thinner dealer network.

Verdict: The GV70 wins overall because nothing else in 2022 delivered this much luxury, power, and warranty for the money.

2. BMW X5 xDrive40i

Starting MSRP: $60,000 (xDrive40i near $62,900 as equipped) | Best for: Drivers who want the benchmark midsize blend of sport and space.

The 2022 X5 xDrive40i runs a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six with 48-volt mild-hybrid assist, making 335 hp and 331 lb-ft through an 8-speed automatic and xDrive AWD. EPA estimates land around 21 city / 25 highway mpg. Cargo is genuinely useful at 33.9 cubic feet, expanding to 72.3 cubic feet folded.

The cabin pairs dual 12.3-inch displays with excellent materials and standard automatic emergency braking, and a plug-in xDrive45e and V8 M50i widen the range.

Pros:

• Smooth, strong inline-six with mild-hybrid efficiency.
• Big, flexible cargo area for the class.
• Polished tech and driving dynamics.

Cons:

• Options inflate the price quickly.

Verdict: The X5 remains the all-around midsize benchmark, just at a premium-fuel, premium-price cost.

3. Lexus NX 350h 💎 (Hybrid Efficiency Leader)

Starting MSRP: $41,550 | Best for: City and suburban buyers who want luxury with hybrid economy.

Fully redesigned for 2022, the NX 350h pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors for 239 hp combined, a CVT, and standard AWD. The headline is efficiency: an EPA rating of about 41 city / 37 highway mpg, roughly 39 mpg combined. A plug-in NX 450h+ adds about 37 miles of electric range and 84 MPGe.

The redesign brought a much-improved touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 active-safety suite. Cargo and rear space grew over the prior NX, and Lexus's reliability reputation underpins low ownership cost.

Pros:

• Outstanding hybrid fuel economy.
• Excellent projected reliability and resale.
• Much-improved cabin tech after the redesign.

Cons:

• Modest power and a droning CVT under hard acceleration.

Verdict: The NX 350h is the efficiency and dependability champion of this list at a friendly price.

4. Acura MDX 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $48,000 | Best for: Families needing three rows without a luxury-tax price.

Redesigned for 2022 on a dedicated platform, the MDX uses a 3.5-liter V6 making 290 hp and 267 lb-ft, with available SH-AWD; the Type S adds a 355-hp turbo V6. EPA estimates are about 19 city / 25 highway mpg with AWD. The seven-seat cabin offers 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and a premium feel with available ELS audio and a 12.3-inch display.

Standard AcuraWatch driver assistance and strong crash scores cover safety, and Honda/Acura mechanicals keep long-term costs reasonable.

Pros:

• Three rows of seating for thousands less than German rivals.
• Strong V6 and available SH-AWD handling.
• Low projected ownership cost.

Cons:

• Touchpad infotainment has a learning curve.
• Base fuel economy trails the hybrids here.

Verdict: The MDX is the Best Value because it delivers genuine three-row luxury at a mainstream-plus price.

5. Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC

Starting MSRP: $61,150 (GLE 350 base; GLE 450 near $67,000) | Best for: Buyers who want the plushest midsize cabin.

The 2022 GLE spans a 255-hp turbo four (GLE 350) up to a 362-hp turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assist in the GLE 450 4MATIC, plus AMG and V8 580 variants. A 9-speed automatic and 4MATIC AWD are widely available. The cabin sets the segment standard for richness, with the dual-screen MBUX system, available air suspension, and an optional third row.

Standard active-safety features and strong IIHS results round out the package, and warranty runs 4-year/50,000-mile.

Pros:

• Best-in-class interior luxury and ride comfort.
• Silky inline-six in the GLE 450.
• Deep options list including air suspension.

Cons:

• Pricey once optioned, with premium-fuel running costs.

Verdict: The GLE is the comfort and prestige choice when budget allows.

6. Porsche Macan

Starting MSRP: $54,900 (about $56,250 with destination) | Best for: Driving enthusiasts who want the sportiest compact luxury SUV.

The 2022 Macan is the segment's handling king. The base model uses a 2.0-liter turbo four with 261 hp; the Macan S jumps to a 375-hp twin-turbo V6, and the GTS delivers 434 hp. A 7-speed PDK and AWD are standard.

EPA ratings run about 19 city / 25 highway mpg for the base. Cargo is small for the class, reflecting the Macan's sport focus, but the cabin is beautifully finished and the chassis is the most engaging here. Standard safety is solid, though many driver aids are optional.

Pros:

• Sharpest handling and steering in the segment.
• Genuine Porsche cabin quality.
• Strong V6 upgrades in S and GTS.

Cons:

• Small cargo hold and pricey options.
• Many driver aids cost extra.

Verdict: The Macan is the enthusiast's pick when driving feel outranks practicality.

7. Volvo XC90 Recharge

Starting MSRP: $64,800 (Recharge plug-in) | Best for: Three-row families wanting plug-in efficiency and Scandinavian calm.

The 2022 XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid pairs a 2.0-liter turbo-and-supercharged four with an electric motor for up to 455 hp, with AWD standard and a 0-60 mph time near 5.3 seconds. It offers up to about 35 miles of electric range and roughly 55-66 MPGe, plus about 27 mpg combined on gas.

The seven-seat (or six-seat captain's-chair) cabin is serene and beautifully trimmed, and Volvo's safety reputation is a major draw.

Pros:

• Plug-in efficiency with strong electric range.
• Calm, minimalist three-row cabin.
• Volvo safety credentials.

Cons:

• Higher entry price than gas three-row rivals.

Verdict: The XC90 Recharge is the safety-and-efficiency pick for families who plug in.

8. Audi Q5 45 TFSI

Starting MSRP: $43,300 (45 TFSI; S line trims higher) | Best for: Buyers wanting a refined, practical compact with strong cargo room.

The 2022 Q5 45 TFSI uses a 2.0-liter turbo four with 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, a 7-speed dual-clutch, and quattro AWD. EPA estimates run about 23 city / 28 highway mpg. Where many rivals skimp, the Q5 is genuinely practical: 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54 cubic feet folded.

The cabin is tightly assembled with crisp MMI infotainment and standard driver assistance, and a plug-in 55 TFSe and SQ5 broaden the lineup.

Pros:

• Best cargo practicality among compact picks here.
• Refined cabin and quattro grip.
• Reasonable efficiency for the class.

Cons:

• Base power is merely adequate next to sportier rivals.

Verdict: The Q5 is the sensible, well-rounded compact luxury choice.

9. Lexus RX 350

Starting MSRP: $45,070 (about $46,595 with destination) | Best for: Buyers who prioritize reliability and a quiet, easy ownership experience.

The 2022 RX 350 uses a proven 3.5-liter V6 with 295 hp and 268 lb-ft, an 8-speed automatic, and available AWD. EPA estimates are about 20 city / 27 highway mpg (FWD), or 19/26 with AWD. Cargo runs 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 32.6 cubic feet folded, with a long-wheelbase three-row RX 350L available.

The RX prioritizes a quiet, comfortable ride and Toyota-grade dependability, with standard Lexus Safety System+ and an average reliability rating near 3.9 of 5. A hybrid RX 450h is also offered.

Pros:

• Excellent reliability and resale.
• Quiet, comfortable ride.
• Hybrid and three-row options.

Cons:

• Aging infotainment and uninvolving handling.

Verdict: The RX 350 is the safe, low-stress pick for buyers who keep cars a long time.

10. BMW X3 xDrive30i

Starting MSRP: $45,700 | Best for: Buyers wanting a sporty, right-sized compact with strong dynamics.

The 2022 X3 xDrive30i uses a 2.0-liter turbo four with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft, an 8-speed automatic, and xDrive AWD; EPA estimates are about 21 city / 28 highway mpg with AWD. The M40i steps up to a 382-hp inline-six, and the X3 M reaches up to 503 hp in Competition form.

Cargo and rear space are competitive, the cabin is well built with dual displays, and standard active safety covers the basics. It blends BMW dynamics with a manageable footprint and price.

Pros:

• Engaging handling and a strong turbo engine.
• Wide range from efficient four to 503-hp X3 M.
• Well-built, tech-rich cabin.

Cons:

• Many comfort and tech items cost extra.

Verdict: The X3 is the sporty compact pick that rounds out a strong field.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Luxury SUV

• Total cost of ownership, not just MSRP: premium fuel, scheduled maintenance, and depreciation often outweigh sticker differences. Genesis and Lexus tend to win here.
• Warranty coverage: Genesis's 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage is a real financial cushion.
• Powertrain match: choose a hybrid (NX 350h, XC90 Recharge) for low fuel cost, or a six-cylinder (X5, GLE 450) for effortless power.
• Real cargo and seating needs: a stylish two-row like the GV70 or Macan trades space for design; the MDX and XC90 add a usable third row.
• Standard versus optional safety: confirm which driver aids are included rather than bundled into costly packages.
• Verify EPA and IIHS data for the exact trim, since AWD and larger wheels change figures.

One honest note: badge prestige matters less than marketing implies. Buyers who chase a specific logo often overpay for capability the value leaders here already deliver.

FAQ

What is the best overall luxury SUV for 2022? The Genesis GV70 earns Best Overall for its combination of low price, strong standard power, premium cabin, and class-leading warranty.

Which 2022 luxury SUV is the best value? The Acura MDX is the Best Value, offering a redesigned three-row cabin and a 290-hp V6 for around $48,000, well under comparable German three-row rivals.

Which 2022 luxury SUV is the most fuel efficient? The Lexus NX 350h leads with about 39 mpg combined, and the plug-in NX 450h+ and Volvo XC90 Recharge add electric-only range.

Do these luxury SUVs require premium fuel? Most German models (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche) recommend premium fuel, while the Lexus, Genesis, and Acura picks are more forgiving, which lowers running costs.

Which 2022 luxury SUV is best for three-row families? The Acura MDX is the value three-row choice, while the Volvo XC90 Recharge adds plug-in efficiency and the BMW X5 offers an optional third row with strong cargo space.

Which 2022 luxury SUV is the sportiest to drive? The Porsche Macan is the handling leader, with the BMW X3 M40i and X5 close behind for buyers who want speed plus space.

Bottom Line

The 2022 luxury SUV field rewarded shoppers who looked past the badge. The Genesis GV70 took Best Overall by undercutting every rival on price while matching them on power, materials, and warranty, and the Acura MDX earned Best Value by putting a redesigned three-row cabin and a strong V6 within reach of mainstream-plus budgets.

If efficiency rules your decision, the Lexus NX 350h and Volvo XC90 Recharge are the standouts; if driving feel comes first, the Porsche Macan and BMW twins deliver; and if you simply want a quiet, dependable ownership experience, the Lexus RX 350 is hard to beat.

Match the powertrain and seating to your real needs, weigh total cost of ownership over sticker price, and any pick on this list will serve well.

Sources

• Kelley Blue Book (KBB) — 2022 Genesis GV70, Acura MDX, BMW X3/X5, Lexus NX/RX, Audi Q5, Volvo XC90, Porsche Macan, Mercedes-Benz GLE pricing and specs.
• Edmunds — 2022 model-year features, specs, and pricing for GV70, NX 350h, MDX, X3, X5, Q5, GLE, XC90, RX 350.
• Car and Driver — 2022 luxury SUV reviews, horsepower, and performance testing.
• MotorTrend — 2022 luxury SUV comparisons and powertrain coverage.
• U.S. News & World Report — 2022 luxury SUV rankings and specifications.
• Cars.com — 2022 GV70, NX 350h, MDX, X3, Macan, RX 350 specs and trims.
• EPA (fueleconomy.gov) — 2022 model-year fuel-economy estimates.
• IIHS — 2022 crashworthiness and safety ratings.
• Autoblog — 2022 Acura MDX and Lexus RX pricing and specification reveals.
• The Car Connection — 2022 Porsche Macan, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volvo XC90 overviews.

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