Affordable luxury cars is a bit of an oxymoron, right? This segment of vehicles is seemingly unaffordable, forcing customers to dig into their bank accounts in order to drive one. Yet, costumers still turn towards these models for their comfort and convenience features.
However, there are a number of models that can be purchased without having to give up an arm and a leg. We’ve explored some of the most notable luxury nameplates below, providing you with a list of targets that should fit into your budget.
Mercedes-Benz Metris
Listen: if you’re trying to purchase a luxury vehicle on a budget, then your options will naturally be limited. Case in point would be the Mercedes-Benz Metris. This model is a traditional box van, but thanks to the brand’s ability to sprinkle luxury into each of their vehicles, the Metris exceeds expectations when compared to similar offerings.
For starters, the vehicle is equipped with a surprisingly-powerful 2.0-liter inline-four engine, a system that’s capable of pumping out up to 208 horsepower. Therefore, just because you’re cruising around in such a big ride, it doesn’t mean that power will be diminished in any way.
Of course, the van also provides plenty of interior space, making it the perfect luxury choice for those seeking a work van. Owners can ultimately take advantage of the 183 to 199 cu.ft. of space that’s available in the cargo van, meaning you’ll never have an issue fitting whatever luggage or equipment you will need during your impending journey.
Best of all, the interior is stocked with a number of luxurious features, including soft upholstery, sleek interior designs choices, and a touchscreen system. So, while this luxury choice may not seem like a practical option for those seeking an opulent ride, the Mercedes-Benz Metris will actually fit the bill.
Audi A3
This luxury brand has established itself as one of the most popular companies in the entire industry thanks to its affordable luxury vehicles. Therefore, it only makes sense that we feature one of Audi’s least-expensive models: the beloved A3.
The vehicle includes everything you could possibly want from a luxury car, including a sleek and comfortable interior, an array of luxury amenities, and a long list of advanced safety functions. This sentiment also applies to the outside of the vehicle; your fellow drivers surely won’t recognize the price discrepancy between the Audi A3 and some of the car’s pricier rivals. The sleek and stylish exterior is both luxurious and sporty, while the rounded body will surely leave others staring.
Plus, engineers also found a way to make the vehicle incredibly fun to drive! The recent 2019 model comes equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that can crank out anywhere from 184 horsepower to 228 horsepower (depending on which variation you opt for). There’s even 10 cubic-feet of space out back, making it the perfect option for those frugal, commuting professionals.
When you consider the Audi A3’s unique blend of performance, luxury, and safety (as well as the incredible asking price), this nameplate would appear to be the premier choice for those seeking a luxury car on a budget.
BMW 2 Series
We bet you never thought a BMW would make its way to a list of affordable luxury vehicles. However, the luxury car brand has found a way to provide an option to those customers who are on a bit of a budget.
The BMW 2 Series may be the brand’s least-expensive offering, but that doesn’t mean the car disappoints in any way. Rather, owners will quickly fall in love with all of the luxurious amenities that the 2 Series provides. For instance, the sleek interior is highlighted by an intuitive infotainment system that will come in handy during any journey, while the exterior is defined by BMW’s recognizable front-end.
Even the driving dynamics are incredible, starting with the pair of engine offerings. The 2.0-liter inline-four manages to deliver an impressive 248 horsepower, while the 3.0-liter inline-four boosts those power specs to 335 horsepower. With a rear-wheel-drive chassis that’s focused on control (as well as a six-speed manual transmission that can be installed for no extra charge), drivers can expect an optimal driving experience when they’re behind the wheel of this affordable luxury offering.
Acura TLX
While some customers who are seeking a luxury car are understandably focused on aesthetics, some of these buyers are a bit more practical. In other words, they’re focused on attributes that your standard car buyers would be pursuing. Well, if you’re looking for a larger vehicle that also satisfies your need for luxury, then there’s no better option that the Acura TLX.
This mid-sized car delivers a whole lot interior space, making it the perfect choice for families. Plus, thanks to the impressive 14-cubic-feet in the trunk, you’ll have more than enough space to fit whatever cargo you’ll need during your impending journey. The vehicle also comes equipped with a worthy 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with a front-wheel-drive system, or customers could opt for the hulking (and powerful) V6 alternative.
Of course, the vehicle also delivers all of the opulence that you’ve come to expect from Acura’s line of vehicles, including a stylish and modern interior. However, as we mentioned, the TLX truly separates itself from the pack thanks to the incredible amount of interior space.
Volvo XC40
What about an SUV? While the Volvo XC40 isn’t as large as some of its competitors, the vehicle still manages to deliver that unique and desired blend of ruggedness and luxury.
The T4 trim is the perfect choice for those on a budget, as the affordable offering combines a number of luxury amenities with a powerful engine. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine manages to deliver up to 187 horsepower, and the accompanying front-wheel-drive system will assure that you’re in control throughout your journey. Plus, thanks to the intuitive steering, you’ll never have an issue maneuvering your luxury car.
Of course, the nameplate also promises a whole lot of opulence. Customers will appreciate the ability to choose from a number of striking paint colors, while the interior is stocked with the latest technology. Drivers can even expect a spacious 21 cubic-feet of cargo space, a number that’s rarely seen in this particular segment.
The Volvo XC40 should already be atop any list of targeted luxury vehicles due to its SUV construction. However, the XC40 also impresses with aesthetic choices, performance, and interior space. Good luck finding these attributes in rival luxury SUVs.
Cadillac XT4
This model is a newcomer to the crossover segment, and we’d say it’s worthy of Rookie of the Year honors. The Cadillac XT4 is now the brand’s most affordable offering, but that doesn’t mean the nameplate is underwhelming when it comes to any attribute.
Rather, it’s the opposite. The 2.0-liter inline-four is plenty powerful, while the optional all-wheel-drive system provides drivers with that control that they’re surely seeking. With the ability to hit up to 237 horsepower, you’ll appreciate all of the mechanical inclusions that are hiding under the hood.
Meanwhile, the spacious interior delivers plenty of cargo space, while both the interior and exterior have been refined for maximum luxury. While the nameplate isn’t crammed full of technological amenities, we’re sure that customers will still be satisfied with everything the Cadillac XT4 provides to drivers.
