Balling on a Budget: Top 10 Used Luxury Sedans
Everyone wants to exude that ‘baller’ status – and sometimes, that requires the right set of wheels. But not all of us want to shell out for the latest, most expensive brand-new luxury cars. Fortunately, the used market presents some incredible opportunities to snag a high-end ride without emptying the bank account. From German engineering to American classics, there are plenty of used luxury four-door sedans that offer both style and reliability.
This list showcases ten used luxury sedans that won’t break the bank. These cars offer a chance to live the high life without paying top dollar. To provide the most accurate information, data was gathered from various manufacturers and respected sources like J.D. Power, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book. The list is presented in descending order of average price, not reliability. J.D. Power reliability scores are included for each entry.
10. 2017 Lexus ES 350
The Lexus ES 350 kicks off the list, just under the $20,000 mark, while boasting impressive reliability. However, the interior doesn’t offer the flashiness that many expect from Toyota’s luxury brand – instead, Lexus prioritizes a supremely comfortable driving experience. While it might not turn heads with glitz and glamour, the ES 350 reliably gets owners to their destination.
- Important Notes: The ES 350 lacks the horsepower of some other models on this list, with its 3.5-liter V-6 engine producing 268 horsepower. Adaptive cruise control was a standard feature on the 2017 model. The ES 350 also earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and holds its value exceptionally well. If you can manage the nearly $20,000 price tag, it’s a safe bet in the used market.
9. 2014 Mercedes S-550
Mercedes-Benz has arguably offered the best luxury on the market for the past decade. Earlier models featured a more subdued look that becomes captivating once you enter the cabin, but that level of luxury does come at a price. As a result, second-hand buyers will need to look to 2014 and older models to find one under $20,000.
- Important Notes: Despite an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph, the S-550 accelerates quickly, thanks to almost 450 lb-ft of torque from its twin-turbo V-8 engine. The S-550 remains large, with a curb weight just over 4,700 lbs. The 2014 model offered a perfume atomizer as an option, and the S-Class provides ambient lighting and numerous driver comfort and safety features. However, the resale value of the Mercedes flagship line continues to decline.
8. 2020 Acura ILX
Acura, Honda’s luxury sub-brand, provides luxury at an affordable price, which is evident in the 2020 ILX. Essentially, the ILX is a dressed-up Civic. Being the only entry on this list from the current decade, second-hand buyers can find more modern tech than elsewhere on the list, with lower mileage figures.
- Important Notes: Much like the Lexus, the ILX isn’t the fastest, with just over 200 hp. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on the premium trim. The ILX excels in its sporty appearance; higher trims feature a piano-black rear spoiler and side skirts for a more aggressive feel. If you’re looking for a sporty look with a luxurious and comfortable feel, the Acura ILX is a great choice.
7. 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300 4Matic
The E-class cemented itself as a favorite in many areas. The best thing about the E300 4Matic is its wide availability. With a wide used market, these typically have fewer miles, after being kept around major metropolitan areas.
- Important Notes: The E300 comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It’s also economical, achieving nearly 30 miles per gallon on the highway and 22 in the city. Independent multi-link suspension makes the E300 one of the smoothest riding options. The 4Matic trim strikes a great balance and can be found for under $19,000. The 4Matic also helps the car retain its value.
6. 2018 Lincoln Continental
When Ford re-entered the luxury sedan market with the Lincoln Continental, its unique integration of door handles and the fact that it was massive for an American sedan made it stand out, but it didn’t stick around long.
- Important Notes: The Continental had a robust powertrain, producing over 300 horsepower from its 3.7-liter V-6. Lincoln offered both front and all-wheel drive options. The Continental featured a quiet, soft-close door system instead of the traditional ‘thunk.’ Finding one on the used market can be difficult because they weren’t widely sold.
5. 2019 Kia Cadenza
Kia might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of luxury sedans, but the Cadenza is a forgotten contender in the luxury sedan market. The Cadenza was designed to compete with the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes.
- Important Notes: Four-wheel independent suspension improved the ride quality. Kia offered a 10-year, 100,000-mile drivetrain warranty as standard. The Cadenza offered plenty of seating room, with a luxurious cabin. Because it didn’t have the right badge, the car didn’t sell well, meaning a savvy buyer can find one on the cheap.
4. 2019 Volkswagen Arteon
Much like Kia, Volkswagen also took a shot at the titans of the luxury sedan market. The Arteon offered a futuristic design.
- Important Notes: VW tuned its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine all the way up for the Arteon, which produces 268 hp. There are a total of 15 different suspension settings on the Arteon controlled by VW’s own software. Automated emergency breaking is standard, with additional driver safety features being optional. The Arteon was meant to challenge the luxury cars, but fell short, creating an opportunity for the savvy second-hand buyer.
3. 2018 Audi A4
Audi has earned its stamp as a more minimalistic, luxurious manufacturer. The A4 is a lower-tiered model.
- Important Notes: Front-wheel drive models put out around 190 hp, while the Quattro puts down just over 250. The Quattro had a six-speed manual option. The A4 can top out at 155 mph. The A4 came with a turbocharged inline-four and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It blends sporty performance with understated luxury.
2. 2018 BMW 330i
The four-door sedan is almost synonymous with BMW, due to its road ability.
- Important Notes: The 330i accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. It is one of the most economical options on this list with over 30 miles per gallon on the highway. BMW offers a lot of rear-wheel drive options, which makes the 330i a popular option. An all-wheel drive model (BMW XDrive) can be optioned. Used examples are not difficult to find.
1. 2018 Cadillac CTS
The Cadillac CTS offers plenty of appeal, and used examples can be found cheaply.
- Important Notes: The V-6 in the CTS churns out 335 horsepower. Rear-wheel drive was standard.
If you want to look like a baller on a budget, these ten used luxury sedans offer style, reliability, and affordability, and may just be the perfect set of wheels to suit your needs.
