The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is a legend. It’s rugged, reliable, and holds its value better than almost anything on the road. However, with the new generation’s pricing easily climbing into the $45,000 to $60,000 range for well-equipped TRD Off-Road or Limited trims, many American buyers are facing “sticker shock.”

If you don’t strictly need a truck bed for hauling gravel or towing heavy trailers, a surprising world of luxury opens up. For the price of a mid-range Tacoma, you can sit in a cabin draped in leather, enjoy a whisper-quiet ride, and command the prestige of a high-end badge.

Here are 10 luxury SUVs that offer more comfort, technology, and status than a new Tacoma—for significantly less money.

1. 2019-2021 BMW X5 (G05)

The BMW X5 is the benchmark for the “Sport Activity Vehicle.” While a new Tacoma feels utilitarian, a used G05-generation X5 offers the silky-smooth B58 inline-six engine and an interior that defines German luxury. You can find low-mileage examples for under $40,000.

2. 2020-2022 Lexus RX 350

If you want Tacoma-level reliability but with a plush ride, the Lexus RX is the king. It is arguably the most sensible luxury purchase in the U.S. market. A three-year-old RX 350 will offer better resale value and lower maintenance costs than almost any other European luxury SUV.

3. 2018-2020 Porsche Macan

Want a sports car but need an SUV? The Porsche Macan is the answer. For around $38,000 – $45,000, you can get into a Macan S. The driving dynamics are lightyears ahead of a body-on-frame truck like the Tacoma.

4. 2021 Acura MDX

For families needing three rows of seats, the redesigned MDX offers SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) and a modern cockpit. It’s a “smart” luxury choice that fits perfectly into the suburban American lifestyle.

5. 2019-2021 Genesis GV80

Genesis has disrupted the luxury market. The GV80 looks like a Bentley but can be found used for the price of a Tacoma TRD Sport. Its 14.5-inch infotainment screen and ventilated “Ergo-Motion” seats make the Tacoma’s plastic interior feel decades old.

6. 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350

The GLE is all about presence. With the MBUX “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant and dual-screen cockpit, the technology gap between this and a Toyota truck is massive. It’s a highway cruiser that turns heads in every ZIP code.

7. 2021 Volvo XC90

The Swedes know safety and minimalism. The XC90 is the ultimate “Stealth Wealth” SUV. It’s perfect for those who want luxury without the “flashy” image of a BMW or Mercedes, offering some of the most comfortable seats ever designed.

8. 2019 Audi Q7

If you need towing capacity but want to stay premium, the Audi Q7 (with the V6) can tow up to 7,700 lbs—matching or exceeding most Tacoma configurations—while providing a “Virtual Cockpit” and Quattro AWD.

9. 2020 Land Rover Defender 110

For the off-road enthusiast who finds the Tacoma too “basic,” a used Defender 110 offers genuine trail capability paired with British heritage. While maintenance costs are higher, the “cool factor” is off the charts.

10. 2021 Cadillac XT6

If you want to “Buy American,” the Cadillac XT6 provides a massive amount of space and a smooth V6 engine. It’s a refined alternative for those who want a premium experience with a dealer network found in every corner of the States.

The Verdict: Utility vs. Luxury

Buying a Toyota Tacoma is a logical choice—it’s a “tool” that lasts forever. But at $50,000, it’s an expensive tool.

If your daily “off-roading” is mostly mall parking lots and highway commutes, opting for a pre-owned BMW X5 or Lexus RX will give you a significantly better daily driving experience. You get better sound insulation, superior safety tech, and a level of comfort that a leaf-sprung truck simply cannot provide.

Ready to trade the truck bed for a sunroof? Check your local listings for these models and see how much luxury your Tacoma budget can actually buy.