Over the years, luxury vehicles have been packed with an increasing number of high-tech features, making it challenging to keep up with the latest advancements.
Interestingly, many features that were once considered exclusive to luxury models have gradually trickled down to more affordable vehicles.
As a result, automakers are continuously innovating to ensure luxury cars maintain their premium appeal. However, with cutting-edge features comes a higher price—not only at the time of purchase but also when it comes to repairs and maintenance.
If you’re prepared to handle the higher maintenance costs that come with luxury ownership, this list is for you. We’ve compiled a selection of ten of the most luxurious vehicles that also boast high reliability ratings and relatively reasonable upkeep costs.
The rise of electric vehicles has introduced a new class of high-end luxury cars that, despite their premium price tags, offer exceptional value. The vehicles listed below are ranked from most reliable to least reliable.
When it comes to luxury cars, many people assume that high-end features and premium performance come with excessive maintenance costs and questionable reliability. However, that’s not always the case.
Some luxury vehicles not only offer a refined driving experience but also boast impressive longevity and cost-effective maintenance, making them great choices for those who want both sophistication and dependability.
Also Read: 10 SUVs That Were Popular but Suddenly Disappeared
10. 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Reliability Score: 83/100
Starting off our list is a name that comes as no surprise—the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This model has earned its reputation for several reasons, including its status as one of the most refined and technologically advanced luxury sedans on the market.
However, that level of sophistication comes at a steep price—not just for initial ownership, but also for maintenance and repairs.
Reliability
While it may not be the most budget-friendly vehicle to maintain, the S-Class is engineered to last a lifetime. The 2018 model received one of the highest J.D. Power reliability scores ever recorded for an S-Class.
Though it did have its share of recalls, the most recent one was reported three years ago, indicating that major issues have since been addressed.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,249
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $12,632
- Total Recalls: 14
9. 2007 Volvo S60
Reliability Score: 83/100
If you’ve ever owned a Volvo, you already know how robust and dependable these vehicles are. The 2007 Volvo S60 made it onto our list due to its strong reliability rating of 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
Fun fact—Volvo was the first automaker to introduce seat belts in their vehicles back in 1959. While this particular model scored well in all IIHS safety tests, it received slightly lower marks for side-impact protection.
Reliability
This specific S60 model only had one recall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and it remains one of the more affordable luxury vehicles on this list in terms of maintenance.
With an average yearly upkeep cost of just $515, it’s a solid option for those seeking a balance of luxury, reliability, and affordability. Although this model is well past the 10-year mark, its strong reliability score earns it a well-deserved spot.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $515
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $9,308
- Total Recalls: 1
8. 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability Score: 83/100
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is widely regarded as one of the most reliable sedans in the German automaker’s lineup.
The 2016 model, in particular, has earned its spot on this list due to its high reliability ratings, making it one of the most well-regarded E-Class model years.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, the 2016 E-Class performs reasonably well. With an annual maintenance cost of approximately $716, owners can expect to spend close to $12,000 over the first decade of ownership.
The vehicle was subject to a total of eight recalls, most of which were related to airbags. However, there have been no new recalls since 2021, suggesting that major issues have been addressed.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $716
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $11,578
- Total Recalls: 8
7. 2015 Audi S8
Reliability Score: 83/100
The Audi S8 is the perfect choice for those seeking an executive-class sedan that offers both luxury and high performance.
Equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, this sleeper sedan delivers an impressive 520 horsepower while maintaining a refined and comfortable cabin for four passengers. It also scores well in reliability, earning an 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
Reliability
There’s both good news and bad news when it comes to the Audi S8’s reliability. The good news is that it has only been subject to four recalls, all related to fuel lines, with the most recent one occurring in 2022.
The bad news? The annual maintenance costs are significantly high.
However, the silver lining is that if you’re purchasing one used, the previous owner has likely already covered most of the costly repairs associated with its $11,000 estimated maintenance expenses over the first decade.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,726
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $10,809
- Total Recalls: 4
6. 2018 BMW 3 Series
Reliability Score: 84/100
The final years of the previous-generation BMW 3 Series stand out as some of the most reliable, according to J.D. Power’s reliability ratings. In fact, finding other luxury vehicles with a reliability score above 80 can be quite a challenge.
Reliability
Luxury cars aren’t typically known for their low maintenance costs—except for Lexus, perhaps—and the BMW 3 Series is no exception. This is evident in both its estimated maintenance expenses over the first decade and its annual upkeep costs.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,157
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $13,749
- Total Recalls: 5
5. 2016 Audi A4
Reliability Score: 84/100
Is the Audi A4 a sleeper car? Technically, no. But does it offer a six-speed manual transmission? Some models do!
The Audi A4 earns its place on this list thanks to its impressive J.D. Power reliability score of 84 out of 100. With up to 220 horsepower and available Quattro all-wheel drive, it strikes a balance between performance and luxury.
Reliability
One reason the A4 ranks so highly is its relatively low number of recalls—just three in total, primarily related to electrical components, which is a fairly common issue for Audis. As for maintenance costs, owners can expect to spend around $750 annually.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $748
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $9,411
- Total Recalls: 3
Also Read: 12 Cars with the Worst Safety Recalls in History
4. 2015 BMW 5-Series
Reliability Score: 85/100
The 2015 BMW 5-Series ranks as the second-highest-rated BMW on this list and potentially one of the most reliable models in the brand’s history.
With an impressive J.D. Power reliability score of 85 out of 100, this generation of the 5-Series offers a variety of engine options, ranging from a four-cylinder to a high-performance V8.
Reliability
While known for its dependability, the BMW 5-Series unfortunately comes with the highest maintenance costs over the first ten years of ownership.
This applies to all 5-Series models, not just the 2015 version. Additionally, it has been subject to seven recalls, though the most recent one was reported in 2019.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $849
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $14,082
- Total Recalls: 7
3. 2007 BMW 7-Series
Reliability Score: 86/100
The most reliable BMW on this list is the 2007 BMW 7-Series. This luxury sedan was a technological marvel for its time, introducing features such as lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring.
With a remarkable J.D. Power reliability score of 86 out of 100, it was also available with a powerful V12 engine.
Reliability
Surprisingly, the 7-Series is relatively affordable to maintain within the first decade of ownership, with total costs well below $10,000. Its annual maintenance expenses average $774, and it has only been subject to two recalls—both related to airbags and the locking system.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $774
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $4,761
- Total Recalls: 2
2. 2017 Lexus ES
Reliability Score: 89/100
Securing the second spot on the list, the 2017 Lexus ES stands out as one of the most reliable luxury vehicles available, earning a J.D. Power reliability score of 89 out of 100.
The Lexus ES has long been praised for its durability, ease of use, and cost-effective maintenance, making it a top choice for those seeking a dependable luxury sedan.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability and cost-effectiveness, Lexus consistently outperforms its competitors.
Owning an ES will set you back only around $5,850 over the first ten years, with an annual repair cost of approximately $570. Furthermore, this model has one of the lowest recall rates, with only a single recall recorded.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $570
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $5,850
- Total Recalls: 1
1. 2022 Lexus IS
Reliability Score: 90/100
Topping the list, the latest generation of the Lexus IS has proven to be virtually indestructible. It has secured the highest reliability rankings across multiple lists, including this one.
The 2022 model year achieved an exceptional J.D. Power reliability score of 90 out of 100, and it continues to hold its position as one of the most reliable luxury vehicles, extending into the 2024 model lineup.
Reliability
Lexus vehicles are synonymous with reliability, cost-efficiency, and budget-friendly maintenance.
With a total maintenance cost well below $10,000 over the first decade and an annual upkeep expense of just $551, the Lexus IS offers outstanding value. Additionally, this model year boasts an impeccable record with zero recalls reported.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551
- Estimated Maintenance Cost Over 10 Years: $6,875
- Total Recalls: 0