Most Americans are familiar with the usual list of best-sellers: the Honda Civics, the Ford F-150s, the Toyota Camrys of the world. But what are the 1% buying? Not Civics, that’s for sure. To illustrate where the money is being spent at the top of the market, we’ve put together a list of this year’s best-selling luxury vehicles – so far.
Note: Figures based on Q2 sales 2026
Buick Enclave: 22,203 units
The Enclave isn’t *really* much of a luxury car, and it occupies a fitting spot: the tenth best-selling luxury car in the US. It’s basically a really nice Chevy Traverse, but it’s also cheaper than proper luxury rivals like the MDX and Infiniti QX60, one of which is, clearly, not doing as well (the MDX can be found further down). The Enclave is a solid starting point, but it certainly doesn’t rise to the luxurious heights of other SUVs on this list.
Volvo XC90: 22,538 units
The Volvo XC90 is pretty inside and out, and does that luxury SUV thing where it’s really nice to live with, but without being ostentatious. There’s also a lot of standard safety features, but the over-reliance on touch controls is a drag, and so is it’s ride, which isn’t quite as smooth as rivals. The bottom line? The XC90 is a solid SUV, and despite its age, it still feels relevant.
Acura MDX: 24,102 units
Acura
A segment stalwart, the MDX still stands out thanks to its fun styling, good driving dynamics, and solid interior tech, the latter of which is a much-needed change over at Acura. However, the MDX’s fuel economy is holding it back, and like the Volvo, so is its cramped third row. It also doesn’t nail luxury like pricier German alternatives, but it stands out by being one of the sportier options in its class.
Lexus TX: 28,112 units
Lexus
Funny enough, for a luxury car, the TX’s biggest selling point is value. The long list of standard features is great, and so are the upscale interior touchpoints. The biggest benefit for families, though, is the generously sized third row, which is large enough for adults. Still, the TX is pretty slow, which is annoying given its size. The trade-off results in a luxury SUV that’s comfortable to drive, but certainly not fun.
Lexus NX: 30,763 units
Lexus
The Lexus NX is a little smaller than the TX. Its compliant ride, Lexus-worthy interior furnishings, and, like the TX, long list of standard features help the smaller SUV stand out. Like the TX above, it is also very slow, which is not so great. The F-Sport trim is also pretty sauceless, which is frustrating given this is supposed to be the SUV’s sportiest trim. The NX isn’t the hottest SUV out there, but its smooth ride and excellent cabin do help make up for it.
Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class: 34,895 units
The GLC is another segment benchmark, with a supremely refined driving experience matched by an excellent interior. More than that, the GLC is a looker, which is something the Japanese options have struggled with in recent years. It’s got some problems, like crappy touch-sensitive haptics and some out-of-control options pricing, but the GLC is arguably the best of Mercedes-Benz at this price point.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: 37,008 units
The GLE is basically a bigger GLC, and it acts like it. The GLE builds on that success with more powertrains, but it also maintains the excellent and luxurious interior found in the smaller GLC. Its ride is a bit sharper, though, which is something rivals capitalize on, plus that long list of options can add up quickly.
BMW X3: 37,761 units
BMW
The BMW X3 is the GLC’s chief rival, with tyipcally BMW benefits to it. That means a sharp, responsive chassis (for an SUV), and potent powertrains. That’s very true of the M50 version, which clears 390 horsepower. The rest of the lineup also isn’t bad on fuel. The styling leaves a lot to be desired, as does its infotainment, but it’s hard to fault the X3.
BMW X5: 41,554 units
BMW
The BMW X5 boasts some seriously excellent road manners, with a satisfying driving character to it. The big V8 feels special, while its turbocharged inline-six feels refined in a way engines from rivals don’t. While it’s not as fun as the smaller X3, the X5’s focus on luxury makes it a top seller, and one that’s due to stick around near the top of the charts for some time yet.
Lexus RX: 59,904 units
Lexus
The RX is an attractive, reasonably priced SUV that prioritizes a comfy, plush cabin and ride over bells and whistles. Where others fall victim to this, the RX does not (even if its powertrains are also unfortunately slow). The premium cabin is another upshot, though, and like many of the brand’s other luxury models, the RX manages to really nail luxury without paying much attention to anything else.
About the author
Chase Bierenkoven
Senior Editor, Autoblog