Best Used Luxury Cars Under $30,000: Affordable Elegance
Dreaming of cruising in a luxury car? The good news is that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many used luxury cars offer a blend of elegance, advanced features, and satisfying performance, all without the new-car price tag. If you’re searching for a sophisticated driving experience that fits your budget, these are some of the best used luxury cars under $30,000.
Key Considerations
When shopping for a used luxury car, focus on these key aspects:
- Reliability: Check reliability ratings from sources like iSeeCars.com to understand potential maintenance costs.
- Features: Evaluate the features that are important to you – infotainment systems, driver-assistance technologies, and comfort amenities.
- Price: Determine your budget and compare prices, considering the car’s age, mileage, and condition.
Let’s explore some of the top contenders.
10. 2020 Audi A6
2020 Audi A6
- Averaged Used Car Price: $29,690
- Reliability Rating: 8.4/10
The 2020 Audi A6 is a tech-forward midsize luxury sedan, boasting an impressive dual-touchscreen infotainment system. It provides a comfortable and stylish cabin, with the safety and driving manners expected of a premium sedan. While some find the infotainment system challenging, the A6 delivers strong overall performance.
Pros
- Strong overall performance
- Attractive and refined interior
- High levels of comfort
Cons
- Infotainment interface can be challenging to use
- Not as much trunk space as some competitors
- Bland design
9. 2020 BMW 3 Series
BMW Sedan
- Averaged Used Car Price: $25,106
- Reliability Rating: 8.4/10
Fresh off a redesign in the prior model year, the 2020 BMW 3 Series presents a compelling package of comfort, performance, and prestige. Its efficient powertrains and an upscale, spacious interior continue to make it a front-runner in the sports sedan category.
Pros
- Balances sharp handling with an enjoyable ride quality
- Strong and efficient powertrains
- Upscale and spacious interior with easy-to-use controls
Cons
- New iDrive system can be more convoluted to use
- Unrefined operation of some driver assist features
- No longer offers a manual transmission
8. 2023 Audi A4
2023 Audi A4
- Averaged Used Car Price: $28,554
- Reliability Rating: 8.5/10
The 2023 Audi A4 offers a fantastic blend of luxury and driving dynamics. It features a comfortable cabin, advanced tech, and a balanced ride, making it an enjoyable choice for those seeking a well-rounded luxury experience.
Pros
- Cabin looks cool and is impeccably constructed
- Advanced and easy-to-use tech features
- Back seat is spacious enough for adults
Cons
- Lack of feedback from steering limits driver involvement
- Transmission can be slow to downshift at times
- Conservative styling
7. 2022 Acura ILX
2022 Acura ILX
- Averaged Used Car Price: $25,407
- Reliability Rating: 8.6/10
The 2022 Acura ILX is an excellent value, combining an efficient powertrain with a smooth ride. While it may not offer the most thrilling driving dynamics, its blend of affordability and features makes it a strong contender.
Pros
- Roomy front-seat area
- Handsome styling
- Cheaper than most premium-brand rivals
Cons
- Snug rear-seat space
- Tepid driving dynamics
- Lacks several expected standard features
6. 2022 Volvo S60
2022 Volvo S60
- Averaged Used Car Price: $28,350
- Reliability Rating: 8.6/10
The 2022 Volvo S60 stands out with its unique style and upscale features. It offers a refined interior and a comfortable ride, ensuring a pleasant driving experience.
Pros
- Classy Scandinavian-inspired cabin
- Soft and supportive seats
- Popular and upscale features are standard
Cons
- Driver experience lacks drama
- Infotainment system is unintuitive
- Most rivals have better base engines
5. 2021 BMW 3 Series
2021 BMW 3 Series
- Averaged Used Car Price: $29,223
- Reliability Rating: 8.6/10
The 2021 BMW 3 Series maintains its status as a top-tier luxury sedan. With its engaging driving manners and a tastefully modern interior, it provides both performance and comfort.
Pros
- Polished handling
- Tastefully modern interior with plenty of room
- Powerful and fuel-efficient engines
Cons
- Infotainment system can be complicated to use
- Unrefined operation of some driver assist features
- No more manual transmission
4. 2020 Lincoln MKZ
2020 Lincoln MKZ
- Averaged Used Car Price: $25,704
- Reliability Rating: 8.6/10
The 2020 Lincoln MKZ is a comfortable sedan with a smooth ride and a well-equipped interior. Its supportive seats and overall driving experience make it an excellent option for those prioritizing comfort and style.
Pros
- Well-equipped with many standard features
- Impressively quick acceleration from the turbocharged V6 engine
- Eminently comfortable interior
Cons
- Underwhelming interior quality
- Short on interior space given its exterior size
- Slower-than-average acceleration with the base engine
3. 2019 Lexus ES 350
2018 Lexus ES
- Averaged Used Car Price: $25,362
- Reliability Rating: 8.7/10
The 2019 Lexus ES 350 is a midsize luxury sedan praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride quality. Its redesign brought increased power, upgraded technology, and a new Sport trim.
Pros
- Comfortable and mostly upscale interior
- Excellent ride quality
- F Sport’s surprisingly capable handling
Cons
- Finicky infotainment interface
- Rear seats don’t fold down
2. 2021 Lexus IS 300
2021 Lexus IS
- Averaged Used Car Price: $29,440
- Reliability Rating: 8.9/10
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 provides a blend of sporty styling with comfort and value. Featuring updated interior and exterior styling, enhanced driving dynamics, and improved driver-assist features, it’s a well-rounded choice.
Pros
- Smooth and comfortable ride on bumpy roads
- Cabin is well-isolated from noise
- Racy appearance
Cons
- Subpar fuel economy with AWD powertrain
- Rear seats can be a tight fit for adults
- Not as sharp handling as key rivals
1. 2019 Lexus IS 350
- Averaged Used Car Price: $29,356
- Reliability Rating: 9.1/10
The 2019 Lexus IS 350 offers a desirable combination of sporty appearance and comfortable cruising. Its blend of ride quality and refined interior makes it a great daily driver.
Pros
- Ride quality is smooth and comfortable on bumpy roads
- Cabin is well-isolated from noise
- Offers more features for the money compared to German alternatives
Cons
- Optional Remote Touch infotainment system is distracting to use
- Handling capabilities don’t create much driver excitement
- A tighter back seat than some rivals
Conclusion
These used luxury cars under $30,000 provide an excellent opportunity to experience the benefits of luxury driving without exceeding your budget. With careful research and consideration of your specific needs, you can find a reliable and stylish vehicle that enhances your daily commute.
