Luxury doesn’t have to come with an exorbitant price tag. Many high-quality vehicles offer premium features, refined interiors, and impressive performance with starting prices around or even below $40,000. This guide explores the best luxury cars and SUVs that prove you can enjoy a top-tier driving experience without breaking the bank.
Finding a luxury car that delivers cutting-edge technology, comfort, and performance at a reasonable price point is more achievable than you might think. Several 2024 and 2025 models provide affordable options for those seeking a touch of elegance. These cars combine quality, affordability, and sophistication, making them ideal for discerning buyers.
Models like the BMW X1, Lexus NX, and Acura Integra showcase that it’s possible to have style, comfort, and powerful performance without sacrificing value. The guide below highlights some of the top-rated luxury vehicles on the market, all starting under $41,000. Note that our car scores are updated regularly as expert reviews and data become available, so scores may differ from other sites.
2025 BMW X1
Starting Price: $40,950 | Overall Score: 9.2/10
The 2025 BMW X1 stands out within the luxury subcompact SUV class, blending premium features with excellent performance. Beginning just under $41,000, the X1 features an upscale interior, composed handling, and a comprehensive suite of standard features. Its 241-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides brisk acceleration and dynamic driving for both practicality and driving enjoyment.
The X1 offers high-quality materials and a spacious cabin, designed with comfort in mind for up to five people. Standard features include a large curved display with iDrive 8.5, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and advanced driver-assistance technology.
2025 Lexus NX
Starting Price: $40,815 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
The 2025 Lexus NX is a luxury compact SUV recognized for its refined interior, solid performance, and a generous array of standard features. With a starting price just under $41,000, it offers an attractive mix of quality and value. The Lexus NX 250, powered by a 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine, provides smooth and efficient performance for everyday driving.
The NX’s cabin has a spacious and well-designed interior, offering high-end materials and comfortable seating for up to five individuals. Technological features that come standard include a 9.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, and many advanced safety features. The NX also distinguishes itself with Lexus’s strong reputation for reliability and longevity.
2025 Cadillac XT4
Starting Price: $40,795 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
The 2025 Cadillac XT4 is a luxury subcompact SUV with bold styling, a roomy interior, and a comfortable ride that blends upscale appeal with practicality. Its starting price is just under $41,000. The 2025 XT4 is powered by a 235-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which offers strong acceleration and smooth performance for both city and highway driving.
Inside, the Cadillac XT4 presents a modern cabin with premium materials and ample space for passengers, making it one of the roomiest options within its class. Standard tech features include a 33-inch curved OLED display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus various driver-assistance features. The XT4’s stylish design and versatile performance make it a compelling choice in the luxury subcompact SUV market.
2025 Volvo XC40
Starting Price: $40,650 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
The 2025 Volvo XC40 is a luxury subcompact SUV known for its seamless combination of Scandinavian elegance and everyday practicality. With a price of $40,650, it has an upscale interior, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride. The Volvo XC40 boasts a 247-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides smooth acceleration and composed cruising capabilities on city streets and highways.
Inside, the 2025 XC40 showcases Volvo’s minimalist design aesthetic, featuring premium materials and ample seating for five. Its flexible cargo space adds to its convenient features. Standard equipment includes a 9-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and numerous safety technologies like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The 2025 Volvo XC40 is an excellent choice for those seeking refined luxury in a smaller SUV form.
2025 Lincoln Corsair
Starting Price: $39,485 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
The 2025 Lincoln Corsair is a luxury compact SUV, which offers a serene cabin, is priced under $40,000, and places a priority on comfort, style and advanced features. It has a smooth ride, an upscale interior, and a wide range of standard amenities. The Lincoln Corsair’s 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides a balance of power and efficiency ideal for regular trips.
The interior is elegantly designed with high-quality materials, comfortable seating for five, and a quiet cabin to minimize road noise. Standard tech includes a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The 2025 Lincoln Corsair is an excellent choice for consumers looking for affordable luxury and comfort.
2024 BMW 2-Series
Starting Price: $38,800 | Overall Score: 9.1/10
The 2024 BMW 2 Series is a small luxury car with thrilling performance, refined comfort, and high-tech features available at an approachable price. Starting at $38,800, it provides a dynamic driving experience with a base 230i model equipped with a 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction.
The interior features a sleek design utilizing premium materials and comfortable seating for four. Standard tech features include a 10.25-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system. Driver-assistance features, like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control, add to its appeal. The 2024 BMW 2 Series represents an excellent blend of sportiness and luxury in a compact package.
2024 Cadillac CT5
Starting Price: $38,395 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
The 2024 Cadillac CT5 is a luxury midsize car known for its smooth ride, modern styling, and a well-equipped interior at an accessible price. Starting at $38,395, it comes with a 237-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers solid performance for everyday driving. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for those seeking extra control in difficult conditions.
Inside, the Cadillac CT5 offers a stylish and spacious cabin with room for up to five people. Standard technology includes an 11-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist, are also offered. The 2024 Cadillac CT5 excels in value and comfort for a midsize luxury sedan, even if the performance isn’t the best in class.
2025 Audi A3
Starting Price: $38,200 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
The 2025 Audi A3 is a luxury small car that combines athletic handling, a premium interior, and advanced technology at an appealing price. Starting at $38,200, it comes equipped with a 201-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering spirited acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. Front-wheel drive is standard, but Quattro all-wheel drive is optional for added traction.
The Audi A3’s cabin features high-quality materials, a modern design, and comfortable seating for up to five. Standard technology includes a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, as well as Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster. Advanced safety features like forward collision warning and lane-keep assist come standard. The 2025 Audi A3 is an excellent option for buyers seeking an entry-level luxury car with a sporty appeal.
2024 Audi Q3
Starting Price: $37,400 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
The 2024 Audi Q3 is a luxury subcompact SUV that provides a blend of sophisticated design, agile handling, and advanced technology at an affordable price. Priced from $37,400, the Q3 features a 184-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with a possible upgrade to 228-horsepower for those seeking more spirited performance. Standard all-wheel drive adds to its capabilities in a range of road conditions.
Inside the Audi Q3 sits a refined cabin with premium materials and comfortable seating for up to five people. Standard tech includes an 8.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto compatibility, and a digital gauge cluster. Audi also equips the Q3 with standard safety features such as lane-departure warning and forward collision avoidance. The 2024 Audi Q3’s premium feel and practical features make it a strong contender in its class.
2025 Buick Envision
Starting Price: $36,500 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
The 2025 Buick Envision is a luxury compact SUV that is known for its style, comfort, and affordability. Starting at $36,500, it features a smooth ride and a well-appointed interior packed with modern features. Power comes from a 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is also available for enhance capability.
Inside, the Envision offers a quiet cabin with high-quality materials and spacious seating for up to five people. Standard tech features include a 10.2-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hot spot. Buick equips the Envision with safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Envision also stands out for its mix of value, comfort, and features, which makes it appealing for those shopping for affordable luxury compact SUVs.
2025 Lexus UX Hybrid
Starting Price: $36,340 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
The 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid is a luxury hybrid SUV that prioritizes efficiency, comfort, and a smooth driving experience. Starting at $36,340, it includes a 196-horsepower hybrid powertrain with standard front-wheel drive, delivering excellent fuel economy, up to 45 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. All-wheel-drive is available, with fuel economy dropping just one mpg for both city and highway estimates.
The UX Hybrid’s interior features high-quality materials and a sleek design, with seating for up to five. Standard tech includes a 9.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. While cargo space and performance are modest, the UX Hybrid excels in efficiency and reliability, making it a compelling option for eco-conscious luxury buyers.
2025 Cadillac CT4
Starting Price: $34,995 | Overall Score: 7.5/10
The 2025 Cadillac CT4 is an entry-level luxury small car that has sporty handling, a comfortable ride, and modern technology at an affordable price. Starting at $34,995, the 2025 CT4 has a 237-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers engaging performance. Standard features include rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available.
Inside, the Cadillac CT4 features a stylish cabin providing seating for five, along with a user-friendly infotainment system. Standard features include an 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist are also included. The 2025 Cadillac CT4 is a great option for consumers seeking a sporty, budget-friendly luxury sedan.
2025 Acura Integra
Starting Price: $33,000 | Overall Score: 9.3/10
The 2025 Acura Integra is a luxury small car that offers dynamic performance, a premium interior, and advanced technology at an attractive price. It features a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth and efficient performance. A six-speed manual transmission is also offered for enthusiasts who prefer a more engaging driving experience.
The Acura Integra’s cabin is modern and upscale, with high-quality materials and comfortable seating for up to five. Standard features include a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The 2025 Acura Integra’s blend of value, style, and performance makes it a standout choice in the luxury small car segment.
