Luxury vehicles often come with hefty price tags, but today, some offer both luxury and affordability due to the rising average cost of new cars. These cars provide an engaging driving experience, stylish designs, and comfortable interiors without breaking the bank. Here are ten dependable luxury cars that cost less than the average price of a new vehicle.
Pricing, powertrain, and general vehicle information were sourced from various automakers. This list is sorted by base MSRP from highest to lowest.
10. Infiniti Q50
Base MSRP: $44,200
The 2024 Infiniti Q50, while due for an upgrade, still boasts an impressive design and affordable pricing, making it a fantastic choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its timeless exterior design still holds up well.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 3.0-liter turbocharged V6
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 300 hp
- Torque: 295 lb-ft
- Driveline: RWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 20/29 mpg
The engine provides a sporty drive, although some might find the handling slightly disappointing. However, the comfort and style make the Infiniti Q50 a great option for an affordable luxury car.
Pros:
- Powerful turbocharged V6 engine
- Comfortable front and rear seats
- Timeless design
Cons:
- Dated interior design
- Some advanced driver aids can be overly sensitive
- Some rivals offer better performance for a similar price
9. Genesis G70
Base MSRP: $43,850
The 2025 Genesis G70 continues to be a great option in the compact luxury sedan class. It offers a stylish, comfortable, and affordable alternative to its German competitors.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 300 hp
- Torque: 311 lb-ft
- Driveline: RWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 21/29 mpg
It’s a versatile luxury car, providing both performance and a smooth, quiet ride, making it suitable for both city driving and spirited drives. Combined with an excellent warranty, the G70 is a tough contender in the affordable luxury market.
Pros:
- Quick acceleration
- Upscale design elements
- Feature-rich for the price
Cons:
- Cramped back seat
- Small trunk
- Subpar fuel economy
8. Volvo S60
Base MSRP: $43,795
The most popular powertrain option for the 2025 Volvo S60 drives the price up. You’ll have to decide which version of this sophisticated and elegant car you want to drive.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder PHEV
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 455 hp
- Torque: 523 lb-ft
- Driveline: AWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 30/33 mpg
This Volvo S60 offers a safe, well-designed, and premium compact sedan. The 2025 model marks the final year for the S60 sedan, making it one of the most affordable luxury options.
Pros:
- Comfortable and supportive seats
- Impressive power and electric range from available PHEV model
- Optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system (sounds great)
Cons:
- Small touchscreen interface
- Frustrating steering wheel controls
- Less trunk space than most rivals
7. Audi A4
Base MSRP: $43,295
The 2025 Audi A4 offers an incredible cabin, making it one of the most affordable luxury cars available. Its conservative styling might appeal to many.
Popular Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder mild hybrid
- Transmission: 8-speed automated manual
- Horsepower: 261 hp
- Torque: 273 lb-ft
- Driveline: AWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 23/32 mpg
Audi delivers on performance, comfort, and technology. The 2025 model includes a new S Line Plus option package, which adds even more features.
Pros:
- Attractive and well-constructed cabin
- Advanced and easy-to-use tech features
- Spacious back seat
Cons:
- Lack of steering feedback
- Transmission can be slow to downshift
- Subdued styling
6. Lexus ES
Base MSRP: $43,215
The 2025 Lexus ES is known as a great affordable luxury car. It offers impressive levels of comfort and technology, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 302 hp
- Torque: 267 lb-ft
- Driveline: FWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 22/32 mpg
Driving the Lexus ES is most enjoyable when used as a comfortable luxury car, not necessarily for sporty driving. It’s an excellent choice if you prioritize comfort, style, and affordability.
Pros:
- Comfortable and upscale interior
- Smooth ride quality
- Enjoyable handling balance from the F Sport Handling
Cons:
- Rear seats don’t fold down
- Sluggish acceleration from the ES 250 and ES 300h
- AWD isn’t available for the ES 350
5. Lexus IS
Base MSRP: $41,610
The 2025 Lexus IS is the most affordable Lexus model, although not necessarily the cheapest luxury car on the market. It offers style and comfortable front seats, providing a good driving experience.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 311 hp
- Torque: 280 lb-ft
- Driveline: RWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 20/28 mpg
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the IS, and Lexus is celebrating with a Special Appearance package for the IS 500 F Sport Performance Premium Model.
Pros:
- Smooth ride quality and comfortable front seats
- Nimble and secure handling
- More features for the money compared to German alternatives
Cons:
- Tight back seat
- Lackluster acceleration from the six-cylinder models
- Limited storage and cargo space
4. BMW 2 Series
Base MSRP: $40,775
The 2025 BMW 2 Series is ideal for those seeking a spirited drive. It delivers an athletic and engaging experience on the road.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 382 hp
- Torque: 369 lb-ft
- Driveline: AWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 23/32 mpg
The BMW 2 Series is designed for performance, making it perfect for winding roads and open highways. Not designed as a comfort cruiser. This car is at its best when driven by someone who appreciates its performance.
Pros:
- Nimble handling
- Robust four and six-cylinder engines
- Upscale interior
Cons:
- Cramped back seat
- Tiny trunk
- Stiff ride
3. Audi A3
Base MSRP: $39,495
The 2025 Audi A3 is one of the most affordable luxury options available. It combines upscale aesthetics with a premium feel and an energetic engine, providing a driving experience superior to its price point.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder mild hybrid
- Transmission: 7-speed automated manual
- Horsepower: 201 hp
- Torque: 236 lb-ft
- Driveline: AWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 24/34 mpg
This Audi A3 features high-quality features that make it enjoyable to drive. The 2025 model receives a subtle exterior styling upgrade, which gives the car a sportier appearance.
Pros:
- Peppy engine and sporty handling
- Excellent in-car tech and audio system
- Comfortable seats with a refined ride
Cons:
- Limited rear passenger space
- Smaller trunk than the competition
- No standard maintenance is included
2. Cadillac CT4
Base MSRP: $36,390
The Cadillac CT4 is another of the best cheap luxury cars. This compact Caddy has sophistication, style, and comfort, making it a good alternative to German models.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 237 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
- Driveline: RWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 22/32 mpg
This Cadillac is an excellent entry-level model with acceleration and athleticism. Although not the quickest, the CT4 performs well in its class.
Pros:
- Strong acceleration
- Lots of helpful tech features
- Good fuel economy for the class
Cons:
- Smaller than expected rear seat
- Stiff ride quality
- An interior that feels low value, considering the price
1. Acura Integra
Base MSRP: $34,195
The 2025 Acura Integra is the most affordable luxury car available today, and it offers a great driving experience. It’s a great entry point into the luxury car segment.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Transmission: CVT
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Torque: 192 lb-ft
- Driveline: FWD
- Fuel Efficiency: 29/36 mpg
This Acura is fun to drive and comes with many features that make it a good choice for daily driving.
Pros:
- Roomy hatchback-style cargo area
- High fuel economy
- Many advanced driver aids come standard
Cons:
- Underwhelming acceleration
- Excessive road noise for a luxury-branded car
- Cabin doesn’t feel particularly luxurious
