Affordable Luxury Cars: 7 Superior Rides That Won't Break the Bank

You don’t have to drop a ton of cash on these affordable luxury cars. Sure, people will be impressed when you pull up to the country club behind the wheel of a new S-Class or Model X. But what if you don’t belong to a country club or care what people think?After all, owning a luxury car can be about more than impressing others. It can be about getting amazing quality and amenities you just don’t see on other cars. So, if you’re not looking to break the bank, but want those advantages and more, read on.To be perfectly, honest, some of these cars will cost more than others to maintain. But here are some of the most affordable luxury cars out there, before you take them to the shop.Jaguar XEI know, you think you can’t afford a Jaguar. It’s not that the XE is expensive, because this cat only starts at $35,725. Instead, it’s the maintenance costs that concern most people.That’s understandable, because Jaguar doesn’t have the most stellar reputation in that department. The company and owners claim things have been changing in big way recently. You must decide if you trust that or not.Climb inside the XE and you’ll see why people rave about British craftsmanship. It doesn’t feel German, but it certainly rivals if not exceeds what you get with those brands. You also enjoy some great technologies standard, like an eight-inch touchscreen and push-button ignition. If you want to pay to upgrade, a heads-up display, 10.2-inch touchscreen, onboard WiFi, and two amazing Meridian sound systems are available.Cadillac ATSDon’t pass up Cadillac because you think the designs are too garish. The new ATS looks smoother and cleaner than ever, plus it’s a tremendous value. Everyone in the luxury market talks about taking the fight to the Germans, but Cadillac has done it with the ATS. Instead of making you pay a ton for such a finely crafted vehicle, you can get a coupe starting at just $34,595.If you want to spend more and get a wildly powerful engine, plus the super-smooth Magnetic Ride Control suspension, you can. But the base ATS is a blast to drive, especially with 295 lb-ft of torque at your command and a chassis that’s rigid but not punishing.Mercedes-Benz CLASeveral years ago, Mercedes-Benz knew it had a problem in the United States: too many people, especially younger shoppers, were passing the brand up because no models were affordable enough. Supposedly, the Germans were going to bring the A-Class stateside, but then it shocked everyone with the CLA.This car is controversial for some. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is hardly classic Mercedes-Benz, but you can get an impressive AMG version (for a far steeper price).The base model starts at just $33,325. For that, you get razor-sharp handling and throttle response that makes you question if the car is turbocharged. You can upgrade to even more tech systems and luxuries, if you prefer. It's definitely one of the best affordable luxury cars you can get.BMW 2 SeriesIf you always wanted one of these highly desirable Bavarian automobiles in your hot little hands, the 2 Series is a great choice on so many levels. It handles great, and many argue the lack of advanced systems makes it feel more pure and clean, like a “real” BMW. Just as important, the coupe starts off at a mere $33,150, while the convertible begins at $38,950 if you're interested in the open-air feel.The base 230i is no slouch, with the turbo four-cylinder engine rocketing this car from 0 to 60 in 5.3 seconds. You’ll also understand why Bimmers are held as the standard-bearer for handling dynamics. And if you live where it snows, xDrive is available, shaving 0.01 seconds from the 0 to 60 time.Audi A3Okay, Audis aren’t exactly affordable to fix, but the A3 is relatively cheap to buy. It starts at a mere $32,150. Thanks to the fact Americans are picky about cars with bubbles in the rear, we no longer have the A3 wagon, and instead just get the sedan version.If you haven’t driven an Audi before, you should at least take the A3 for a spin. Few cars at this price or under feel so much like an extension of you, so know you just might fall in love. Among the standard features are leather upholstery, satellite radio and heated side mirrors. Tasteful styling is also included.Lexus CT 200hThis little hybrid car rides on the same platform as the Corolla, but it serves up more luxury. Among the standard features are airbags in just about every imaginable place, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry and ignition. You can add plenty more luxuries, like heated and cooled front seats, 10 speakers, navigation, and more - if you don’t mind inflating the price some.While the CT 200h starts off at just $32,225, don’t let that price blind you to the hidden costs. Some owners have complained that replacement parts are expensive, thanks to the more complicated hybrid powertrain. But if you like being a friend to the planet, this is the only luxury hybrid on this list.Acura ILXSome argue this isn’t a real luxury car, but instead is just a dressed-up Civic. Call it what you will, but one thing is for sure: an ILX is cheap to buy. The base model starts out at a mere $28,930, so it's the cheapest on our list of affordable luxury cars. Of course, for such a low price, you can’t expect some of the same amenities you might get on other cars from this list.Another factor to consider is performance. Sure, the ILX is pretty fuel efficient, but it’s not exhilarating to drive by any stretch of the imagination. Acceleration is tepid, and handling has clear limits. If you don’t care about that, but just want heated front seats, a sunroof and dual-zone automatic climate control, this could be a good fit.Which one of these affordable luxury cars is right for you? My suggestion is to take the ones that interest you for a spin, do some research, and then make a selection. It’s a big decision, so take your time and make sure you get a vehicle you love.

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