For those searching for a fine badge on a budget, the cheapest luxury cars remain an enticing group. Many renowned brands offer entry-level luxury sedans for much less than the average new car sells for, and some of these inexpensive luxury-branded models offer genuine luxury. Some are just a cash-in relying on the badge, but there are several that offer real luxury comfort, technology, and performance for affordable prices. In the increasingly competitive world of affordable luxury sedans, a few standout options manage to combine a premium experience with accessibility.
This group of vehicles not only offers great value but also comes with an impressive array of features that define true luxury. From sleek designs and smooth ride quality to innovative tech and advanced safety features, these cars aim to enhance the driving experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for style, performance, or efficiency, the vehicles discussed below provide a strong combination of luxury and affordability. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best affordable luxury cars for 2025.
10. 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 Sedan | $45,550
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 offers a sleek, coupe-like design that is typical of the Mercedes-Benz family. While the base model comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 221 horsepower, it is more focused on offering an upscale design and a premium experience. The ride quality is firm, and while it might not be as refined as some competitors, it still delivers a fun-to-drive character. The car’s styling makes it a standout in the segment, and for those willing to spend more, the higher trims bring surprising performance.
However, the CLA250 also has its drawbacks. While the base model is appealing in terms of styling and tech features, it lacks the refinement you might expect from a luxury car at this price point. The interior materials, for example, don’t quite match the upscale expectations of the brand. Additionally, many desirable features like adaptive cruise control and front automatic braking are only available as part of the optional Driver Assistance package, making the base model feel less equipped.
9. 2025 Audi A4 40 Premium Quattro Sedan | $45,395
The 2025 Audi A4 40 Premium Quattro Sedan is a balanced and practical entry in the luxury compact sedan segment. Featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the A4 offers solid performance and excellent handling dynamics. It has a sophisticated exterior design and a well-appointed interior with plenty of space for rear passengers. One of its standout features is the athletic S Line trim, which improves the performance of the base model. If you’re looking for a blend of style and sportiness, the A4 delivers.
On the downside, the Audi A4 is not without flaws. The infotainment system remains a sore spot, with many users reporting glitches and a user interface that can be hard to navigate. While the ride quality is firm, the absence of a more comfortable suspension setup in the base trim means it’s not the smoothest ride for all passengers. Moreover, the A4 might soon be entering its final year, which could affect its long-term value and desirability.
8. 2025 Tesla Model 3 | $44,130
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 offers an electric alternative in the luxury car market, blending efficiency, performance, and cutting-edge technology. With a refined exterior design and improved driving dynamics, the Model 3 continues to impress in terms of electric range and acceleration. The base version delivers impressive performance and range, and the vehicle benefits from Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, which makes long-distance travel easier than ever. The minimalist interior is equipped with all the modern tech features expected from a Tesla, and the driving experience is highly engaging.
However, the Model 3 is not without its issues. One of the major concerns with the car is the reliability of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system, which still requires human supervision and is not entirely trustworthy. The lack of an instrument cluster can be disorienting for some drivers, and the cabin can also be quite noisy. Moreover, while the car’s range is generally impressive, Tesla’s overestimation of its performance in real-world conditions can lead to disappointing range figures during highway driving.
7. 2025 Genesis G70 2.5T RWD Standard | $43,250
The Genesis G70 stands out as one of the most exciting and stylish sedans in the luxury compact class. With its bold design and engaging driving dynamics, it offers more excitement than most competitors in this price range. The G70 features a powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, offering 300 horsepower, making it one of the more powerful options in this segment. The car also comes with many standard features, including a high-quality interior and advanced safety tech, which elevates the luxury experience.
However, there are a few practical drawbacks to the G70. The rear seat and trunk space are somewhat limited, which may be a dealbreaker for those who need more cargo capacity or rear-seat legroom. Additionally, while the ride is fun and engaging, it can feel a bit choppy at times, especially on rough roads. The G70 is also not the most tech-focused luxury sedan in its class, with its infotainment system falling behind more established competitors.
6. 2025 BMW 228i Gran Coupe | $42,775
The BMW 228i Gran Coupe offers a stylish and fun-to-drive entry into the luxury car market. As the least expensive BMW in the lineup, it’s surprisingly spacious and features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that delivers solid performance. The interior is sleek, with a large digital display and a well-appointed cabin. The car’s sporty nature is emphasized by its rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a great choice for those who want a fun driving experience without breaking the bank.
However, the 228i Gran Coupe is not without its shortcomings. While it offers impressive tech features, the ride quality can be on the harsher side, which detracts from its overall luxury feel. The rear seats are tight, making it less suitable for families or those who need more passenger space. Additionally, the Gran Coupe doesn’t quite offer the same level of refinement or driving dynamics as other models in BMW’s lineup, such as the 2 Series Coupe.
5. 2025 Lexus IS300 Sedan | $41,360
The 2025 Lexus IS300 sedan offers a luxurious and well-balanced driving experience. It features a sleek exterior design and a refined interior, packed with technology and comfort features. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides a nice balance of power and fuel efficiency, making the IS300 a solid choice for those seeking a luxury sedan with a more relaxed driving experience. The IS also comes with strong reliability, a hallmark of the Lexus brand.
Despite its many strengths, the IS300 has its drawbacks. The rear seats are cramped, which may make it less comfortable for passengers compared to other options in the class. Additionally, while the car’s design is sharp, the interior feels a bit dated in comparison to more modern luxury sedans. The tech features, although functional, are not as cutting-edge as those found in rival brands, and the infotainment system can feel clunky at times.
4. 2025 BMW 230i Coupe | $40,375
The 2025 BMW 230i Coupe stands out for its driving dynamics and stylish design. It is a compact and sporty coupe with a powerful 2.0-liter engine that delivers excellent performance. The rear-wheel-drive layout adds to the driving experience, offering great handling and precision. Inside, the 230i features a sleek dashboard and a driver-focused interior, with comfortable front seats and a fun-to-drive character that will appeal to enthusiasts.
However, the 230i Coupe has its limitations. The ride quality can be a bit stiff, especially for those used to more comfortable luxury sedans. The rear seats are also tight, making it less suitable for those who need more practicality or passenger space. Additionally, the large screens and minimal button controls might not appeal to those who prefer more traditional interior layouts. The car’s overall refinement and interior materials could also be more polished.
3. 2025 Audi A3 40 Premium Sedan | $39,495
The 2025 Audi A3 40 Premium Sedan is a solid contender in the entry-level luxury sedan market. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver, and it offers a turbocharged engine that provides excellent acceleration and handling. The A3 is also efficient, offering good fuel economy for its class. Inside, it features a clean and modern interior with enough room for passengers, despite its smaller footprint. The A3 delivers a confident and settled driving experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a fun but affordable luxury car.
Despite its positives, the A3 has a few drawbacks. The cabin can be noisy, especially at higher speeds, which detracts from the overall refinement expected in a luxury car. The trunk is also on the smaller side, which limits its practicality. While the A3 offers good performance, it doesn’t quite match some rivals in terms of outright speed or driving excitement. Additionally, the overall tech experience could be better, with the infotainment system being less intuitive than those found in competitors.
2. 2025 Cadillac CT4 Luxury Sedan | $36,390
The 2025 Cadillac CT4 Luxury Sedan offers an excellent balance of performance and comfort at a competitive price. With a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 237 horsepower, the CT4 delivers solid acceleration and handling. The rear-wheel-drive layout makes it one of the few luxury sedans in its class to offer this feature at this price point. The car also comes with a number of standard features, including advanced safety technology, a comfortable interior, and a smooth ride quality.
However, there are some trade-offs. The rear seats and trunk space are somewhat cramped, which may make it less suitable for families or those needing extra cargo space. The infotainment system is also a weak point, with a small touchscreen that can be difficult to navigate. Additionally, while the CT4’s engine offers decent performance, it lacks the refinement and excitement of some rivals in its class, particularly when it comes to engine noise and overall power delivery.
1. 2025 Acura Integra | $34,195
The 2025 Acura Integra is the least expensive luxury car in this group, yet it still offers a high-quality driving experience. With a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 200 horsepower, the Integra offers solid performance for its class. Its spacious interior and large cargo area make it a practical choice for those who want luxury without sacrificing utility. The driving dynamics are also impressive, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. For those seeking an affordable yet capable luxury sedan, the Integra is a standout.
However, the Integra does have some limitations. While it’s well-built, it feels less luxurious than other cars in its class, partly due to its shared platform with the Honda Civic. The road noise in the cabin can be noticeable, and some may find the interior less refined than what they expect from a luxury car. Additionally, while the Integra offers good value for money, it doesn’t have the same level of distinctiveness as some of its competitors.