Luxury Cars That Won’t Break the Bank
Luxury cars have long represented status, engineering excellence and refined sophistication. But what if you don’t have a six-figure budget? As of September, the average transaction price for a new vehicle in the United States was around $48,000, according to Kelley Blue Book, and you can still find a fantastic selection of models that give you that premium feel without the premium price tag.
Many car manufacturers offer luxury cars with prices less than $50,000, complete with design features, safety options, and high-end performance – all at a price that’s half as much as some competitors.
Here are six luxurious cars that present real value.
1. Genesis G70
Price: $42,000 to $52,520
The Genesis G70 offers a smooth driving experience and a luxurious interior design, setting it apart from many vehicles in its class. This compact luxury sedan stands out due to its attention to detail, most notably the interior.
The G70 boasts quilted leather seats, available in red or tan, as well as real aluminum and open-pore wood trims. The driver-centric design places every control within easy reach.
The G70 has an adaptive suspension for a more comfortable ride, and a sport mode for a more dynamic feel. It also offers features like a valet mode for added security and an outstanding warranty, positioning it favorably against other luxury brands.
2. Lexus ES
Price: $42,040 to $52,330
The Lexus ES is distinguished by its quiet and peaceful driving experience. Acoustic glass and soundproofing materials inside the cabin add to the calm, making it one of the quietest sedans in its class.
The ES’s interior is exceptionally luxurious, featuring ergonomically designed seats available with semi-aniline leather upholstery. The 12.3-inch display is easy to use and responsive, thanks to its remote touch interface, and the Mark Levinson surround-sound stereo significantly enhances the in-cabin experience.
It also stands out in terms of safety, including Lexus Safety System Plus 2.5, pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and road sign recognition.
The hybrid model’s fuel economy – up to 44 MPG combined – makes this vehicle an excellent option for environmentally conscious luxury car buyers.
3. Acura TLX
Price: $45,400 to $57,750
The Acura TLX is engineered for a sporty driving experience. The sharp aesthetics and athletic design of the TLX provide a dynamic feel. The super-handling, all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) system enhances cornering precision and overall stability for a smooth driving experience.
The Type S is a more powerful TLX which features a turbo V6 engine and the adaptive damper system that adjusts the suspension automatically depending on the driving conditions. The Type S also features performance-oriented Brembo brakes.
The TLX’s interior combines quality materials with excellent technology. The driver-focused layout uses a 10.2-inch display, True Touchpad Interface, and ambient lighting.
4. Kia K5
Price: $26,990 to $34,490
The Kia K5 redefines expectations in the mid-size sedan market because of its bold design and high-end features combined with its accessible price.
Its exterior has the bold “Tiger Nose” grille and LED headlight accents. With a fastback-inspired roofline, the K5 has a sporty, almost coupe-like silhouette.
The K5’s interior features ventilated front seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and wireless charging. The GT-trimmed model combines a 290-hp engine with sport-tuned suspension.
The K5 is equipped with advanced safety features, and carries a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
5. Hyundai Sonata
Price: $26,650 to $36,400
The Sonata’s technological and innovative design gives it an edge at this price point.
It features remote smart parking assist, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a customizable display.
The Sonata Hybrid has a solar roof panel, providing an extended driving range. Combined with these eco-friendly features, the hybrid model has 52 mpg in fuel efficiency.
Hyundai cares about safety, including blind-spot view monitors and a surround-view camera system.
6. Volkswagen Arteon
Price: $43,010 to $50,175
The Volkswagen Arteon is distinguished among other competitors by its fastback styling and premium European design.
The exterior of the Arteon is sleek and aerodynamic and also has a frameless window design and a sculpted grille.
The interior of the Arteon features a spacious cabin with details like massaging driver’s seats and customizable ambient lighting. The 10.25-inch virtual cockpit offers configurable displays and Kardon premium audio.
The Arteon has over 27 cubic feet of cargo space. The mix of luxury, practicality, and performance makes the Arteon a solid choice for discerning buyers.
