Luxury doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. Several high-quality cars and SUVs deliver a premium experience with starting prices at or below $40,000.
Affordable Luxury: Top Contenders for 2025
Finding a luxury vehicle that provides top-tier features without a sky-high price tag is more attainable than ever. Whether you’re seeking advanced technology, a refined interior, or exceptional performance, numerous affordable options are available for the 2025 model year.
With starting prices under $40,000, models like the BMW X1, Lexus NX, and Acura Integra demonstrate that style, comfort, and performance don’t have to be compromised for value. From sedans to SUVs, these vehicles provide the premium experience expected from luxury brands at a surprisingly accessible cost.
This guide highlights some of the top-rated luxury cars that combine quality, affordability, and sophistication. Note that these scores are frequently updated as new expert reviews and data become available, so they may differ from those found elsewhere on our site.
2025 BMW X1
Starting Price: $40,950 | Overall Score: 9.2/10
The 2025 BMW X1 leads the luxury subcompact SUV class, blending premium features with outstanding performance. Priced just under $41,000, it boasts a refined interior, composed handling, and a comprehensive suite of standard features. Its 241-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides brisk acceleration and responsive driving dynamics, making it both practical and enjoyable.
Inside, the X1 features high-quality materials and a spacious cabin for its class, comfortably accommodating up to five people. Standard features include a large curved display with iDrive 8.5, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and an array of advanced driver-assistance technologies.
2025 Lexus NX
Starting Price: $40,815 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
The 2025 Lexus NX is a luxury compact SUV known for its refined interior, dependable performance, and extensive list of standard features. Priced at just under $41,000, it presents an appealing combination of quality and value. The Lexus NX 250, powered by a 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine, offers smooth and efficient performance ideal for everyday driving.
The NX’s cabin is well-designed and spacious, featuring premium materials and seating for up to five. Standard technology includes a 9.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, and advanced safety features. The NX also stands out 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 that boasts bold styling, a roomy interior, and a comfortable ride. With a starting price just below $41,000, it blends upscale aesthetics with practical functionality. A 235-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers the 2025 XT4, providing strong acceleration and smooth performance for both city and highway driving.
Inside, the Cadillac XT4 features a modern cabin with premium materials and ample space for passengers and cargo, making it one of the roomiest options in its class. Standard tech includes a 33-inch curved OLED display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various driver-assistance features. The XT4’s striking design and versatile performance make it an attractive 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 that seamlessly combines Scandinavian elegance with everyday practicality, priced at $40,650. It offers an upscale interior, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride. The Volvo XC40 is equipped with a 247-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which ensures smooth acceleration and composed cruising for both city and highway driving.
Inside, the 2025 XC40 showcases Volvo’s signature minimalist design, incorporating premium materials and spacious seating for up to five people. Its versatile cargo space enhances its practicality. Standard features include a 9-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and various safety technologies, such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The 2025 Volvo XC40 is an excellent selection for buyers searching for refined luxury in a small SUV.
2025 Lincoln Corsair
Starting Price: $39,485 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
The 2025 Lincoln Corsair is a luxury compact SUV that prioritizes comfort, style, and advanced features, all priced under $40,000. It provides a smooth ride, an upscale interior, and a wealth of standard amenities. The Lincoln Corsair’s 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers a balance of power and efficiency, ideal for daily commutes and extended journeys.
The interior is elegantly designed with high-quality materials, comfortable seating for five, and a quiet cabin that minimizes road noise. Standard technology includes a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The 2025 Lincoln Corsair is an excellent choice for those seeking affordable luxury and comfort.
2024 BMW 2-Series
Starting Price: $38,800 | Overall Score: 9.1/10
The 2024 BMW 2 Series offers thrilling performance, refined comfort, and high-tech features at an accessible price point, making it a luxury small car that’s worth considering. Starting at $38,800, this car provides a dynamic driving experience with a 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the base 230i model. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is an available option for enhanced traction.
The interior features a sleek design with premium materials and comfortable seating for four passengers. 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 epitomizes the perfect mix of sportiness and luxury in a compact package.
2024 Cadillac CT5
Starting Price: $38,395 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
The 2024 Cadillac CT5, a luxury midsize car, delivers a smooth ride, modern styling, and a well-equipped interior at an affordable price point. Starting at $38,395, it’s powered by a 237-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing solid everyday performance. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive available for those who desire extra grip in challenging conditions.
Inside, the Cadillac CT5 features a stylish and spacious cabin, with room for up to five passengers. Standard technology includes an 11-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist, are also standard. While its pure performance might not lead the class, the 2024 Cadillac CT5 is a strong contender for value and comfort in the midsize luxury sedan category.
2025 Audi A3
Starting Price: $38,200 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
The 2025 Audi A3 is a luxury small car combining athletic handling, a premium interior, and advanced technology at an appealing price. Starting at $38,200, it’s equipped with a 201-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which provides spirited acceleration and great fuel efficiency. Front-wheel drive is standard, while Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system is available for added traction in challenging conditions.
The Audi A3’s cabin boasts 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, and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster. Advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning and lane-keep assist, are standard, as well. The 2025 Audi A3 is a smart choice for those seeking an entry-level luxury small car with sporty appeal.
2024 Audi Q3
Starting Price: $37,400 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
The 2024 Audi Q3 delivers a blend of sophisticated design, agile handling, and advanced technology at an affordable price, and is a luxury subcompact SUV. Starting at $37,400, the Q3 sports a 184-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with an optional 228-horsepower upgrade for those seeking more spirited performance. Standard all-wheel drive enhances capability in a variety of road conditions.
Inside, the Audi Q3 features a refined cabin with high-quality materials and seating for up to five people. Standard technology includes an 8.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital gauge cluster. Audi also equips the Q3 with standard safety features like lane-departure warning and forward collision avoidance. The 2024 Audi Q3’s premium feel and practicality makes it a solid contender in its class.
2025 Buick Envision
Starting Price: $36,500 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
The 2025 Buick Envision, a luxury compact SUV, blends style, comfort, and affordability. Starting at $36,500, it provides 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, while all-wheel drive remains available for enhanced capability.
Inside, the Envision impresses with its quiet cabin, 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 various safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Its combination of value, comfort, and features makes the Envision a good choice for anyone shopping for a compact luxury SUV.
2025 Lexus UX Hybrid
Starting Price: $36,340 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
The 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid prioritizes efficiency, comfort, and a smooth driving experience, as a luxury hybrid SUV. Starting at $36,340, it features a 196-horsepower hybrid powertrain with standard front-wheel drive, delivering excellent fuel economy, with up to 45 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive is available, with fuel economy diminishing by 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, Android Auto, and a suite of safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. While cargo space and acceleration 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 with 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. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is an option.
Inside, the Cadillac CT4 features a stylish cabin with seating for five and 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. While the rear-seat space may be limited, the 2025 Cadillac CT4 is a great choice for buyers 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 known for its dynamic performance, premium interior, and advanced technology at an attractive price. It comes with a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth and efficient performance. A six-speed manual transmission is also offered for enthusiasts who want 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 host of driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The 2025 Acura Integra’s combination of value, style, and performance makes it a standout choice in the luxury small car segment.
