Owning a luxury vehicle is a dream for many, but the high price tags often make it unattainable. Fortunately, several brands offer entry-level models that provide a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Here’s a look at the best cheap luxury cars of 2025, offering a blend of features, performance, and value.
This list focuses on the 12 most affordable new luxury cars available in the U.S. for the 2025 model year. The prices listed are the base prices, excluding destination fees, options, or any other costs, and only the cheapest variant of each model is included. While brands like Buick offer affordable models, they’re not considered true luxury cars for the purpose of this list.
12. 2025 Lexus NX 250
Base Price: $40,965
The Lexus NX 250 kicks off our list. While luxury car prices are generally on the rise, the base NX model is relatively accessible with a starting price of $40,965. Even though it may not be the most powerful car on this list, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine still produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, perfect for daily commutes or running errands. The build quality and refinement are top-notch, and reliability is expected to be excellent.
- 2025 Lexus NX 250 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.5L 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 203 hp
- Torque: 184 lb-ft
11. 2025 Cadillac XT4
Base Price: $40,795
The base trim of the Cadillac XT4, the Premium Luxury, is aptly named, as this compact SUV sits between the premium and true luxury segments. The XT4 is more affordable than rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA. This difference in pricing is evident to some degree in slightly less refinement and a rougher-sounding four-cylinder engine. However, the interior design is visually appealing, and the XT4 comes equipped with a comprehensive array of features, including a substantial 33-inch display. Overall, the Cadillac offers a relaxed driving experience, aligning with the expectations of a luxury vehicle.
- 2025 Cadillac XT4 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo
- Horsepower: 235 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
10. 2025 Volvo XC40
Base Price: $40,650
Volvo’s XC40 makes an appearance on this list, though it isn’t the cheapest luxury car available. This 2025 model starts at $40,650 and boasts slightly superior power figures compared to the Lexus NX 250. Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mild hybrid system generating 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While Volvo also produces great plug-in hybrids, the mild hybrid powertrain in this affordable luxury SUV performs excellently.
- 2025 Volvo XC40 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo-4-Cylinder Mild Hybrid
- Horsepower: 247 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
9. 2025 Lexus IS 300
Base Price: $40,185
One of the best value options on this list, the 2025 Lexus IS 300, stands out for its luxurious features and reliability. The IS, with a starting price of $40,185, is one of the more dependable vehicles on this list. Although it will come with the typical luxury car expenses, the IS offers the peace of mind associated with Toyota’s reliability. For approximately $2,000 extra, upgrading to the IS 300 AWD is recommended; it not only provides the security of an all-wheel-drive system but also features a smoother 260-hp V6 engine.
- 2025 Lexus IS 300 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 241 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
8. 2025 Audi Q3
Base Price: $39,800
Audi’s Q3 is a compact SUV that just slips under the $40,000 mark, with a starting price of $39,800. Drivers wanting more space might also consider the larger Q5, which does come at a slightly higher price. The Q3 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for daily use. Being an Audi, the Q3 provides a refined driving experience, even in its compact form.
- 2025 Audi Q3 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 228 hp
- Torque: 251 lb-ft
7. 2025 BMW 230i
Base Price: $39,600
BMW, often associated with luxury cars, also has a model on this list: the 2025 BMW 230i. The rear-wheel-drive version of the 2 Series coupe starts at $39,600, with the price increasing quickly if you choose the xDrive AWD variant or any sportier models. The base model has a 2.0-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine generating 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is sufficient. Build quality is excellent, and ride comfort is decent given the car’s sporty nature.
- 2025 BMW 230i Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Twin-Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 255 hp
- Torque: 295 lb-ft
6. 2025 Lincoln Corsair
Base Price: $39,485
The Lincoln Corsair also makes its appearance on this list, with a starting price of $39,485. The Corsair addresses the issue of high prices associated with other Lincoln models, and is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid version is also available for a bit more. The Corsair is not particularly sporty but provides a comfortable ride and a quiet interior, making it perfect for relaxed cruising.
- 2025 Lincoln Corsair Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 250 hp
- Torque: 275 lb-ft
5. 2025 Audi A3
Base Price: $38,200
Another Audi model on the list, the 2025 A3, is an entry-level compact sedan. It offers a lot of features and elegant design in a relatively compact form. With a starting price of $38,200, it’s less expensive than the BMW coupe, but it has less power. The A3 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This configuration makes the A3 a great option as an urban car, combining practical luxury and aesthetic appeal.
- 2025 Audi A3 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 201 hp
- Torque: 236 lb-ft
4. 2025 Lexus UX 300h
Base Price: $36,540
Lexus is showcasing multiple models on this list of budget luxury vehicles in 2025. The UX 300h, a hybrid SUV, starts at $36,540, with the all-wheel drive version costing a few thousand dollars more. While the UX is appealing and boasts a nice interior, it’s priced affordably for a reason. Its base 300h model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, which delivers only 196 horsepower, similar to the more affordable Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. While nicely appointed inside, the UX also has a small interior.
- 2025 Lexus UX 300h Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L 4-Cylinder Hybrid
- Horsepower: 196 hp
- Torque: 139 lb-ft (gas engine only)
3. 2025 Buick Envision
Base Price: $36,500
The Envision is the most affordable Buick model that offers a luxurious feel comparable to the well-regarded German brands. Starting at $36,500, the Envision competes favorably with rivals such as the BMW X3. It’s equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 228 hp, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Buick provides a comfortable cruising experience and a premium appearance, though it’s not as engaging to drive as the sportier X3. Nevertheless, this is a worthwhile option if you want an affordable crossover that surpasses mainstream alternatives.
- 2025 Buick Envision Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo
- Horsepower: 228 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
2. 2025 Cadillac CT4
Base Price: $34,595
The Cadillac CT4 is impressive, with a base price of $34,595, offering a similar size to the more expensive BMW 3 Series. Its base model includes a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, complemented by sharp styling. However, the accessible price does involve some compromises: interior quality is merely average, and the interior space isn’t as spacious as expected for the vehicle’s size.
- 2025 Cadillac CT4 Specs
- Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 237 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
1. 2025 Acura Integra
Base Price: $33,000
It’s rare to find luxury cars priced under $40,000, but the 2025 Acura Integra offers a base price of only $33,000. Honda’s luxury brand provides a chance to enjoy higher-quality materials, reliability synonymous with Honda, and a better driving experience than any other luxury automaker at this price point in 2025. Its 1.5L turbo four-cylinder makes 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, which, while not exceptionally high, is sufficient for a luxurious and affordable driving experience .
- 2025 Acura Integra Specs
- Powertrain: 1.5L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Torque: 192 lb-ft
These vehicles offer an attractive entry point into the luxury car market, balancing cost with features and performance. While each car offers unique strengths, they all provide an elevated driving experience at an accessible price, proving that luxury motoring can be attainable.
