2014 Best Buys: Compact SUVs Over $40,000

It was written in the stars. As the compact SUV market soared in popularity, luxury automakers realized that this was a bandwagon that could not be missed.
That’s how it came to be that Audi stole first place in the compact SUVs over $40,000 category with their 2014 Q5. Its winning features include quattro four-wheel drive, quality assembly, and a wide range of trims, which include a hybrid, diesel, four- and six-cylinder engines and the mind-boggling SQ5 version.

With a totally different style, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK also won a lot of hearts. It offers comfort (except in the relatively small rear seats), a powerful V6 engine and a fantastic diesel option.

• Also: 2014 Audi SQ5: The Family Race Car
• Also: 2014 Audi Q5 TDI: 7.3 litres per 100 kilometers on the highway

Last but certainly not least, the 2014 BMW X3 is in the running and looking stronger than ever. Its road handling is worthy of the BMW name, and it features a range of great engines.

There are several other contenders in this race, such as the 2014 Acura RDX, 2014 BMW X1, 2014 Infiniti QX50, 2014 Land Rover LR3, and 2014 Volvo XC60.

See all of The Car Guide’s 2014 Best Buys.