Luxury cars have a reputation for being expensive to buy and even more expensive to maintain.
High original prices, advanced technology, and premium branding often make buyers assume that owning a used luxury vehicle will lead to constant repair bills and costly parts. While that can be true for some models, there is another side to the story that many shoppers overlook.
Some luxury cars quietly fall out of the spotlight as newer generations arrive and trends change. Their resale values drop quickly, not because they are unreliable, but because they are no longer fashionable or packed with the latest digital displays.
Underneath the aging design and older infotainment systems, many of these vehicles share proven engines and components with more mainstream models. That can make them surprisingly affordable to keep on the road.
These forgotten luxury cars often deliver smooth rides, quiet cabins, and high quality materials for the price of an ordinary compact sedan.
Insurance costs can also be reasonable once the cars are older, and parts availability is often better than people expect, especially when mechanical components were used across multiple vehicles from the same manufacturer.
The key is knowing which models balance luxury comfort with mechanical simplicity and long term durability. This list highlights ten luxury cars that have largely slipped off the radar but remain shockingly cheap to own when maintained properly.
I will present them two at a time, explaining why they depreciated so much, what makes them affordable to run, and what to check when buying used.
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1. Lexus ES 350 2013 to 2016
The Lexus ES 350 is often overlooked because it does not have the sporty image of some European luxury sedans.
However, this calm and comfortable sedan hides one of the most affordable ownership experiences in the luxury world. Its resale values drop steadily over time, yet its core mechanical components are known for long term durability.
Under the hood is a naturally aspirated V6 engine that has been used in many Toyota and Lexus vehicles. It is tuned for smoothness and reliability rather than high performance.
Because it is not heavily stressed, it tends to run for many years with only routine maintenance such as oil changes, filters, and fluids. This engine does not rely on complicated turbocharging systems, which reduces the number of potential failure points.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is also known for being dependable. It shifts smoothly and is designed for comfort rather than aggressive driving.
In normal use, it experiences relatively low mechanical stress, which helps keep long term repair costs down. Many owners report high mileage examples that still drive quietly and comfortably.
Depreciation hits the ES hard because it is not considered a sporty or exciting luxury car. Buyers often chase newer designs and flashier technology, leaving older ES models behind on dealer lots. This drop in demand pushes prices down even though the vehicle still offers a refined ride and high build quality.
Inside, the ES 350 provides a quiet cabin with comfortable seats and quality materials. It was designed for relaxed cruising, which also helps reduce wear on suspension and drivetrain components. Most systems are straightforward and well engineered, which keeps maintenance predictable.
When shopping used, look for a complete service history and check that all electronics, including climate controls and seat functions, operate correctly.
Suspension components such as bushings and shocks should be inspected, especially on higher mileage cars. Overall, the ES 350 offers a luxury experience with running costs closer to a well built mainstream sedan.
2. Acura TLX V6 2015 to 2017
The Acura TLX with the V6 engine is another luxury sedan that often flies under the radar. It does not carry the same prestige image as some European brands, which leads to heavy depreciation. For used buyers, this means access to a comfortable, well equipped car with proven mechanical parts at a surprisingly low purchase price.
The V6 engine in the TLX is closely related to engines used in many Honda and Acura vehicles. It is known for smooth power delivery and strong long term durability when maintained properly.
Regular oil changes and fluid services are usually enough to keep it running well for many years. Because this engine is not pushed to extreme performance levels, it tends to age gracefully.
The transmission in these models is designed for smooth everyday driving rather than track performance. In normal use, it delivers reliable operation with relatively low maintenance demands.
Acura’s all wheel drive system, available in some versions, is also built with long term durability in mind and does not require constant attention beyond scheduled servicing.
Depreciation is driven by styling that some buyers consider conservative and by rapid advances in infotainment systems.
Newer models with larger screens and updated features make earlier TLX versions seem outdated, even though their mechanical components remain strong. This disconnect between perception and reality benefits second owners.
Inside, the TLX offers supportive seats, a quiet cabin, and many comfort features that were optional on mainstream sedans of the same era.
Materials are durable and well assembled, which helps the interior hold up over time. Ride quality strikes a good balance between comfort and control, making it suitable for both commuting and longer trips.
When buying used, check that the transmission shifts smoothly and that all electronic systems work properly. Maintenance records are important, especially for engine and transmission fluid changes.
With proper care, the TLX V6 delivers a genuine luxury experience with ownership costs that are closer to a well maintained Honda than a typical European luxury sedan.
3. Buick LaCrosse V6 2014 to 2016
The Buick LaCrosse is one of those luxury leaning sedans that quietly disappeared from many buyers’ consideration, yet it remains one of the most affordable premium feeling cars to own.
Because Buick does not carry the same prestige image as European luxury brands, resale values tend to fall quickly. That sharp depreciation works in favor of used buyers who want comfort and low operating costs in the same package.
Under the hood, many LaCrosse models from this period use a naturally aspirated V6 engine that was widely used across General Motors vehicles. This engine has a long track record for durability when maintained properly.
It is tuned for smooth power delivery rather than aggressive performance, which reduces long term stress on internal components. Routine maintenance such as oil changes, spark plugs, and fluid services is usually enough to keep it running reliably for many years.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is also known for being reasonably durable in everyday use. It is designed for smooth, comfortable shifting that matches the LaCrosse’s relaxed personality.
Because the car is not marketed as a performance sedan, the drivetrain is rarely pushed hard, which helps extend its lifespan.
Depreciation hits the LaCrosse hard for several reasons. Sedans in general have fallen out of favor compared to SUVs, and Buick’s image is often associated with older buyers rather than sportiness.
Rapid changes in infotainment technology also make older systems feel dated, even though the rest of the car still functions well. This combination pushes resale prices down faster than the actual mechanical quality would suggest.
Inside, the LaCrosse offers a quiet and spacious cabin with comfortable seating and a smooth ride. It was designed to isolate passengers from road noise and bumps, which gives it a near luxury car feel at a much lower price point.
Materials are generally durable, and the interior layout is straightforward, reducing the chance of complicated electronic failures.
When shopping used, check the suspension for worn components such as bushings and shocks, as a soft riding car can hide wear until it becomes noticeable.
Make sure all electronics work properly, including seat adjustments, climate controls, and infotainment functions. A complete service history is always a plus, especially for engine and transmission fluid changes.
The LaCrosse may not have the flashiest badge, but it delivers many of the same comfort benefits as more expensive luxury sedans. Thanks to its heavy depreciation and proven V6 drivetrain, it can be shockingly cheap to own while still providing a refined daily driving experience.
4. Hyundai Genesis Sedan V6 2015 to 2016
Before Genesis became a standalone luxury brand, Hyundai sold the Genesis sedan as its flagship model. These cars offered a high level of comfort, strong build quality, and powerful engines, yet they depreciated quickly due to brand perception. Today, that drop in value makes the Genesis sedan one of the best hidden bargains in the used luxury market.
The V6 engine found in many of these cars is known for its smoothness and durability. It was engineered to provide strong performance without relying on complex turbocharging systems.
Because it is not tuned to extreme output levels, it tends to have a long service life when maintained properly. Regular oil changes and scheduled servicing are typically enough to keep it running well.
The automatic transmission paired with the V6 is also designed for smooth, relaxed driving. It handles everyday use without excessive strain, which helps reduce long term repair costs. The car’s rear wheel drive layout in many markets adds to its premium feel without introducing overly complicated mechanical systems.
Depreciation is steep mainly because the Hyundai badge does not carry the same prestige as traditional luxury brands.
Many buyers overlooked the Genesis when new, preferring established luxury names instead. As newer models with updated styling and technology arrived, earlier versions lost value quickly despite their solid engineering.
Inside, the Genesis sedan feels genuinely upscale. It features comfortable seats, a quiet cabin, and high quality materials that rival more expensive competitors.
The ride is tuned for comfort, which helps reduce wear on suspension and drivetrain components over time. Many luxury features that were optional on other brands came standard here, adding to its value.
When buying used, check that all electronic systems work properly, including seat controls, infotainment functions, and driver assistance features.
Inspect the suspension for wear and confirm that the transmission shifts smoothly. Maintenance records are important, as consistent servicing helps ensure long term reliability.
The Genesis sedan proves that luxury does not always require a luxury badge price. With its strong V6 engine, comfortable ride, and heavy depreciation, it can be surprisingly inexpensive to own while still delivering a true premium driving experience.
5. Volvo S60 T5 2015 to 2017
The Volvo S60 is a compact luxury sedan that often slips under the radar in the used market. Overshadowed by German rivals and newer Volvo designs, these mid 2010s models depreciate quickly. For buyers willing to look past the aging infotainment layout, the S60 can offer a refined and safe driving experience with surprisingly manageable ownership costs.
The T5 version uses a turbocharged four cylinder engine that balances performance and efficiency. While turbo engines can sometimes raise reliability concerns, this particular setup is tuned conservatively and has proven to be durable when maintained properly.
Regular oil changes and attention to cooling system health are key to long term dependability. Because the car is not especially heavy, the engine is not under extreme stress during everyday driving.
The automatic transmission paired with the T5 engine is designed for smooth and comfortable operation. It is not a performance oriented gearbox, which helps reduce wear under normal commuting conditions. Volvo tuned the S60 more for safety and comfort than aggressive driving, which benefits long term mechanical health.
Depreciation is steep because Volvo went through a major design and technology overhaul shortly after these models. Newer Volvos with larger vertical touchscreens and updated styling make earlier interiors seem dated.
This perception lowers resale value even though the core mechanical components remain solid and the car still offers excellent crash safety and comfort.
Inside, the S60 provides supportive seats, a quiet cabin, and a solid feel on the road. Volvo seats are especially well regarded for long distance comfort, which adds to the car’s everyday usability. The overall interior layout is simple and durable, with fewer overly complicated controls than some rivals.
When shopping used, verify that all electronics function properly, including climate controls, infotainment, and seat adjustments. Check for consistent service records, especially oil change intervals. Suspension components such as bushings and dampers should be inspected, as wear can affect ride quality over time.
The S60 T5 delivers understated luxury, strong safety credentials, and a comfortable ride at a purchase price that often undercuts many mainstream sedans. With proper maintenance, it can be a shockingly affordable way to own a European luxury badge.
6. Lincoln MKZ 3.7 V6 2014 to 2016
The Lincoln MKZ from this era is often forgotten in discussions about used luxury cars, yet it can be one of the cheapest premium sedans to own. Heavy depreciation and low brand visibility push prices down, even though the car shares many reliable components with well proven Ford models.
The 3.7 liter V6 engine is a highlight for long term ownership. It has been used in various Ford and Lincoln vehicles and is known for solid durability.
It produces smooth power without relying on complex turbocharging systems, which simplifies maintenance and reduces potential failure points. With regular oil changes and basic servicing, this engine can deliver a long and dependable service life.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is also designed for comfort and everyday usability. It handles typical driving conditions without excessive stress, helping keep long term repair costs in check. Because the MKZ is tuned more for relaxed cruising than performance, its drivetrain components generally age gracefully.
Depreciation is driven by several factors. Lincoln’s brand image is not as strong globally as some luxury competitors, and styling that was once considered bold now looks dated to some buyers.
Rapid advances in infotainment and driver assistance technology also make older systems feel less modern, pushing resale values down faster than mechanical wear would suggest.
Inside, the MKZ offers a quiet cabin with comfortable seating and many features that were optional on mainstream cars of the same era.
Materials are generally durable, and the ride quality is tuned for comfort, which reduces strain on suspension components. The overall driving experience is smooth and relaxed, fitting the car’s luxury mission.
When buying used, check that all electronic systems operate correctly, especially climate controls, infotainment, and seat functions. Inspect the suspension for worn components and listen for unusual noises during a test drive. A well documented service history is important for maintaining long term reliability.
The MKZ may not be a headline grabbing luxury sedan, but it delivers genuine comfort and refinement at a very low purchase price. Its strong V6 engine and shared components with mainstream vehicles help keep ownership costs surprisingly low, making it a smart pick among forgotten luxury cars.
7. Cadillac XTS V6 2014 to 2017
The Cadillac XTS is a large luxury sedan that has largely faded from public attention, yet it remains one of the most comfortable and affordable premium cars to own on the used market.
When new, it was marketed as a flagship style cruiser focused on comfort rather than sportiness. As trends shifted toward smaller sport sedans and SUVs, the XTS depreciated heavily, which now makes it a bargain for used buyers.
Power comes from a naturally aspirated V6 engine that has been used across many General Motors vehicles. This engine is known for smooth performance and a solid reliability record when properly maintained.
Because it is not tuned for high performance, it experiences less stress in everyday driving, which helps extend its lifespan. Routine oil changes, fluid services, and basic upkeep are usually enough to keep it running smoothly for many years.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is also designed for comfort and smooth shifting. It is built to handle the car’s weight without being overly complex.
In normal driving conditions, it tends to deliver dependable service with relatively low maintenance demands compared to more advanced performance oriented gearboxes.
Depreciation affects the XTS strongly for several reasons. Full size sedans have fallen out of favor in many markets, and Cadillac’s image shifted toward newer sportier models shortly after the XTS was introduced.
In addition, rapid changes in infotainment design made older systems seem outdated. These factors pushed resale values down much faster than the car’s mechanical durability would justify.
Inside, the XTS offers a spacious and quiet cabin with soft ride quality and comfortable seating. It was designed to isolate passengers from road noise and bumps, which makes it ideal for long highway trips and daily commuting alike. Many examples come well equipped with features that were once considered high end luxury items.
When buying used, inspect the suspension carefully, as larger sedans can wear out bushings and dampers over time.
Make sure all electronic systems function properly, including climate controls, seat adjustments, and infotainment features. A complete service history is important to confirm that regular maintenance was performed.
The XTS proves that a full size American luxury sedan can deliver genuine comfort and refinement without high ownership costs. Thanks to steep depreciation and a proven V6 drivetrain, it can be surprisingly inexpensive to buy and maintain.
8. Infiniti Q70 V6 2015 to 2018
The Infiniti Q70 is another luxury sedan that has slipped into obscurity despite offering a strong balance of comfort, performance, and durability.
As Infiniti’s lineup evolved and newer models took the spotlight, the Q70 depreciated rapidly. Today, it can often be found for the price of a well equipped mainstream sedan, yet it still carries the features and presence of a premium vehicle.
The V6 engine used in many Q70 models has a long track record across Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. It is known for smooth power delivery and strong reliability when maintained properly.
Because it does not rely on complicated turbocharging systems, it avoids some of the long term issues associated with more complex engines. Regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance are usually sufficient to keep it in good condition.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is tuned for smooth, relaxed driving. It is not a high performance unit, which helps reduce wear under normal commuting conditions. Combined with the car’s balanced chassis, this drivetrain setup provides a comfortable and dependable driving experience over time.
Depreciation is steep partly because Infiniti does not have the same global prestige as some European luxury brands.
Styling that once looked modern now appears conservative to some buyers, and rapid advances in infotainment technology make older systems feel dated. These perception issues push resale values down faster than actual mechanical quality would suggest.
Inside, the Q70 offers a quiet cabin with supportive seats and high quality materials. It strikes a good balance between comfort and driving engagement, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer trips. Many features that were optional elsewhere came standard here, adding to its value as a used purchase.
When shopping for a Q70, check that all electronics work properly and that there are no warning lights on the dashboard.
Inspect the suspension for wear and confirm that the transmission shifts smoothly. Maintenance records are important to ensure that routine services were performed on time.
The Q70 V6 delivers genuine luxury comfort and a proven drivetrain at a surprisingly low purchase price. Its heavy depreciation makes it one of the best overlooked luxury sedans for buyers who want refinement without high ownership costs.
9. Jaguar XF 3.0 V6 2013 to 2015
The Jaguar XF from the mid 2010s is a luxury sedan that once competed directly with German sport sedans, yet today it is often priced like a mainstream family car.
This dramatic drop in value is largely due to brand perception and concerns about long term reliability. However, when the right engine and a well maintained example are chosen, the XF can be far more affordable to own than many people expect.
The 3.0 liter V6 engine in these models is a strong performer with smooth power delivery. It provides a refined driving experience without being pushed to extreme performance levels in everyday use.
When serviced regularly with proper oil and fluid changes, this engine can hold up well over time. Its design is less complex than some high performance turbocharged units, which helps keep maintenance more manageable.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is also designed for smooth operation rather than aggressive shifting. It handles daily driving with minimal stress, which supports long term durability.
Because the XF is tuned to balance comfort and performance, its drivetrain is not constantly subjected to harsh conditions under normal use.
Depreciation hits Jaguar models hard because buyers often worry about repair costs and resale value. As newer designs and updated technology appear, older interiors can feel dated. This perception drives down prices quickly, even though many mechanical components remain solid when properly maintained.
Inside, the XF offers a stylish and comfortable cabin with quality materials and a refined feel. Seats are supportive, and the ride quality strikes a balance between comfort and handling. It delivers the sense of occasion that many buyers seek in a luxury car, which adds to its appeal as a used purchase.
When buying an XF, service history is especially important. Regular maintenance is key to keeping ownership costs reasonable.
Check that all electronic systems work correctly and that there are no warning lights. Suspension components should be inspected carefully, as they can wear over time and affect ride quality.
With its distinctive design, strong V6 engine, and heavy depreciation, the XF can be a surprisingly affordable way to experience British luxury. Choosing a well maintained example is essential, but the reward is a premium driving experience at a fraction of its original cost.
10. Genesis G80 3.8 V6 2017 to 2018
The Genesis G80 represents one of the most overlooked values in the used luxury market. As Genesis was still establishing itself as a standalone luxury brand, early models did not hold their value as strongly as established competitors.
This heavy depreciation now makes the G80 an excellent choice for buyers seeking comfort and reliability at a low purchase price.
The 3.8 liter V6 engine used in these models is known for smooth performance and long term durability. It was engineered to deliver strong power without relying on complex turbocharging systems.
This simpler design helps reduce potential long term maintenance issues. With routine oil changes and regular servicing, the engine can provide many years of dependable operation.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is also tuned for comfort and smoothness. It handles everyday driving conditions without excessive stress, which supports long term reliability.
The G80 focuses on delivering a quiet, refined ride rather than sporty performance, which benefits the lifespan of drivetrain components.
Depreciation is steep mainly because the Genesis brand was still building recognition. Many buyers overlooked the G80 in favor of more familiar luxury names. Rapid advances in infotainment and driver assistance technology also made earlier versions seem less modern, pushing resale values down even further.
Inside, the G80 offers a truly premium cabin with high quality materials, comfortable seating, and a calm driving environment. It rivals more expensive luxury sedans in terms of interior refinement. Ride quality is smooth and composed, making it well suited for both daily commuting and long highway journeys.
When shopping for a used G80, verify that all electronics function properly and that maintenance records show consistent servicing. Inspect the suspension for wear and confirm that the transmission shifts smoothly. With proper care, this car can deliver years of reliable service.
The G80 proves that a luxury badge does not have to come with luxury level ownership costs. Thanks to its strong V6 engine, comfortable ride, and heavy depreciation, it stands out as one of the most shockingly affordable luxury cars to own today.
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