The compact luxury SUV segment was more competitive than ever in 2023, and it was no longer just about badge prestige; it was about personality. Some buyers prioritized performance, others comfort, efficiency, or cutting-edge tech. These five compact luxury crossovers stood out in 2023 for very different (and very deliberate) reasons.
2023 Lincoln Corsair
What stands out most: The 2023 refresh introduced Lincoln’s larger 13.2-inch touchscreen and enhanced plug-in hybrid Grand Touring model, making comfort and tech its strongest assets.
The Lincoln Corsair doesn’t try to out-muscle the segment. Instead, it leans into comfort. In 2023, especially in Grand Touring plug-in hybrid form, the Corsair makes its case with a quiet cabin, genuinely comfortable seats, and a ride that feels tuned for long commutes rather than back-road heroics. The refreshed 13.2-inch touchscreen modernized the dash, and Lincoln’s focus on calm, well-insulated cruising gives the Corsair a personality that’s more relaxed than sporty. In a class obsessed with performance credentials, that composure is exactly the point.
2023 Porsche Macan
What stands out most: Even in its updated 2023 form, the Macan remains the performance benchmark of the segment, with razor-sharp steering and a GTS model that feels closer to a sports car than an SUV.
The Porsche Macan continues to be the driver’s choice in this segment. Even in base form, it feels more composed and precise than most rivals, with steering that’s unusually communicative for a compact SUV and a chassis that stays planted when the road starts to twist. Step into the S or GTS and the gap widens: the turbocharged V6 models deliver the kind of punch and balance that remind you this SUV shares DNA with Stuttgart’s sports cars. It’s not the roomiest or the softest option here, but if driving feel matters, the Macan still sets the tone. A year later, we also have the Macan EV, which offers a big clue that this smaller Porsche bears little similarity to the outgoing one: the massive price jump.
2023 Cadillac XT4
What stands out most: For 2023, the XT4 blends bold Cadillac design with a punchy 2.0L turbo engine and competitive pricing, positioning it as one of the more accessible entries into true luxury branding.
The Cadillac XT4 plays a different game than some of its European rivals. Since first arriving for 2019, it’s less about outright performance and more about design presence and accessible luxury. The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder delivers adequate punch for daily driving, and the chassis feels stable and composed without pretending to be a sports SUV. Where the XT4 makes its case is in its styling: bold lines, strong lighting signatures, and a cabin that feels modern without being overly complicated. For buyers who want the Cadillac badge and a manageable footprint, it offers a confident entry point into the brand.
2023 Lexus NX
What stands out most: The 2023 NX lineup’s strength lies in its hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, pairing Lexus reliability with impressive efficiency and strong resale value.
The Lexus NX took a meaningful step forward with its redesign, and by 2023 it had firmly settled into its role as the sensible but far-from-boring choice in the segment. As we noted in our 2022 Lexus NX first drive, the updated platform delivered a quieter cabin, sharper exterior design, and a far more modern infotainment system than the model it replaced. The real strength of the NX lineup, however, lies in its hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, which pair Lexus’ reputation for long-term reliability with impressive efficiency. It may not chase lap times like the Macan, but as an everyday luxury crossover with strong resale and low ownership drama, the NX makes a compelling case.
2023 Volvo XC40
What stands out most: The 2023 XC40 distinguishes itself with minimalist Scandinavian design and available Recharge electrified variants, offering both style and forward-thinking powertrains.
The Volvo XC40 brings a different kind of personality to the segment. Where others chase performance numbers, the XC40 leans into clean Scandinavian design and thoughtful practicality. The cabin feels airy and modern, with smart storage solutions and materials that give it a distinct, almost minimalist character. In 2023, mild-hybrid and fully electric Recharge variants broadened their appeal, while Volvo’s suite of safety tech remained a key selling point. It’s not trying to be the sportiest option here; instead, it focuses on comfort, style, and everyday usability with a quietly confident approach. If you’re willing to go mid-size with 3 rows, here’s our closer look at the XC90 Recharge.
