When it’s time to part ways with your old car, many people contemplate: should I buy a luxury car? With the average price of a used car standing at around $25,250, the idea of upgrading to a luxury car may not be as far-fetched as you think.
If you’re wondering if a luxury car is the right fit for you, discover the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a luxury vehicle with the Kennedy Transmission team. We’ll also explore some of the top affordable luxury cars in the current market.
Why Buy a Luxury Car?—Reasons to Consider Buying a Luxury Vehicle
Buying a luxury car means elevated interior features and premier amenities that make driving your vehicle feel extra posh. From high-quality leather interiors to advanced climate control with heated seats and steering wheel, luxury cars are designed to bring comfort to your daily drive. Luxury vehicles also commonly include advanced safety features and high-end technology like large touchscreen displays, deluxe audio systems, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Luxury cars maintain better resale value due to their prestigious brand reputation, high desirability, exceptional build quality, and the incorporation of advanced technology. Certain luxury vehicle models are manufactured in limited quantities, leading to heightened demand and, consequently, higher resale values.
Are Luxury Cars Worth It?—The Pros and Cons of Owning a Luxury Vehicle
So, is it worth owning a luxury vehicle? This is an important question that requires careful consideration of various factors. Let’s explore a pros and cons list to help you weigh your options:
Pros of Owning a Luxury Car
- Prestige. Brands like Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have high resale values for quality and durability.
- Advanced safety features. Surround-view cameras, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring
- Convenient luxury features. Keyless entry and push-button start, wireless charging pads, heads-up display, automatic parking assist, configurable ambient lighting colors, panoramic sunroof or moonroof
- Enhanced connectivity. WiFi hotspot capability, multiple USB ports and power outlets, voice control systems
- Upgraded comfort amenities. Power-adjustable seats with memory settings, remote start capabilities, rear-seat entertainment systems, massage seats, soft-close doors
Cons of Owning a Luxury Vehicle
- High initial cost. The cost of luxury cars can reach dizzying heights, anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000.
- Expensive maintenance costs and replacement parts. Specialized parts, service requirements, maintenance, and repairs can add up quickly.
- Depreciation. Luxury vehicles tend to depreciate faster.
- Higher insurance premiums. Insurance fees are typically more from higher value models and repair costs.
- Fuel costs. These vehicles often require premium fuel, or have lower fuel efficiency, leading to higher costs.
Best Low-Cost Luxury Cars
These low-cost luxury cars strike the perfect balance between performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Each vehicle offers unique strengths and weaknesses, so finding the ideal match for your preferences is the top priority. Check out our top five picks for the most affordable luxury cars:
1. Acura Integra
This top-of-the-line compact sedan wows with its dynamic performance, advanced driver-assistance capabilities, roomy and cozy interior, enhanced tech features, and exceptional overall value. Equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque as standard, the Integra effortlessly accelerates and offers ample power for any driving scenario.
The starting sticker price of a 2025 Acura Integra is approximately $33,595.
2. Audi Q3
This luxury subcompact SUV offers an array of comfort, infotainment, and driver-assistance features at a reasonably low starting price. Enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride with an 184-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder base engine in a refined, quiet cabin. Features include an 8.8-inch touch screen, wireless device charging, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof for added luxury.
The 2025 Audi Q3’s sticker price is $39,000.
3. BMW 2 Series
This coupe offers high-quality cabin materials combined with a powerful engine. Enjoy sporty handling while driving in luxury with high-end safety features like a blind spot monitor, brake assist, lane departure warning, and advanced technology. Connect to the WiFi hot spot during road trips, allow the car to park for you with parking assistance, and gaze at the stars under the moonroof in the BMW Series 2.
The starting sticker price of a 2025 BMW 2 Series is around $40,000.
4. Cadillac CT4
This small luxury sedan has an affordable starting price, powerful engine options, cutting-edge technological features, and a refined driving experience. The spacious interior comfortably accommodates five occupants, while standard safety features include a following-distance indicator, rear-seat alert, Teen Driver feature, and Buckle to Drive feature.
You can expect a 2025 Cadillac CT4’s starting sticker price to be $36,390.
5. Lexus IS
Experience a smooth and comfortable ride in this dependable sedan, with an eye-catching design and a well-insulated, quiet cabin. Indulge in luxury amenities such as keyless entry, multi-zone climate control, and a top-of-the-line sound system.
The sticker price of a 2025 Lexus IS starts at $42,000.
Maintain Your Luxury Vehicle With Kennedy Transmission
After deciding on the perfect luxury car that fits your requirements, wants, and wishlist, rely on Kennedy Transmission for quality, budget-friendly automotive services. Find the nearest Kennedy Transmission location in Minnesota today, or contact us for more information.
Do you still have questions? Explore our blog and maintenance tips!
