Contrary to popular belief, luxury cars are not only defined by their price tags, size and comfort levels. Today’s luxury vehicles are also characterized by their feel and overall experience including brand reputation, where they’re purchased and the customer’s sheer satisfaction of owning a particular car.
This year’s lineup of luxury vehicles come in a wide range of options. Automotive vehicle valuation company Kelley Blue Book released a list of best luxury cars under $40,000. From sedans to coupes and SUVs, these luxury model cars have everything you want – and more.
Cadillac ATS
#1Starting at around $33,000, this world-class compact luxury sports sedan is ranked as one of the best luxury cars on the market. It comes with a range of engine choices, and its fuel economy is estimated at 22/33 mpg city/highway. It impresses consumers with its balanced handling and comfortable riding quality.
Besides its modern, distinctive design and high-quality materials, top features of this luxury automobile include five seats with extra legroom, Bluetooth, two USB ports and a seven-speaker Bose stereo system. Optional safety features include blind zone alert lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
BMW 3 Series
#2This sixth-generation vehicle comes in four models including the BMW ActiveHybrid 3. It is a highly desirable entry-level luxury car with a sporty driving character and high-end cabin. Starting at around $31,000, it has fuel-efficient engines, spacious seating and an upscale interior.
It has an optional technology package with a hard-drive-based navigation system, high-resolution display, BMW apps and remote service, leather upholstery and keyless ignition. The vehicle comes with ConnectedDrive and BMW Assist – which include enhanced automotive collision notification, stolen vehicle recovery, remote door unlock and several other luxurious and beneficial features.
Audi A5
#3For less than $40,000, the 2014 Audi A5 is a sexy car with an amazing driving demeanor, sleek exterior and great fuel economy. It has classic sporty styling and a luxurious interior. Standard features include Bluetooth and keyless ignition/entry.
The A5 is detailed with a well-built, flawless leather interior, has all-wheel drive and high safety ratings. Not only does it come with iPod connectivity, is also boasts an impressive 10-speaker stereo and Audi’s MMI infotainment system. Drivers can opt in for additional features like parking sensors, a backup camera, adaptive cruise control, a blind spot monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, an upgraded MMI system with navigation and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Lexus IS
#4One of the most notable luxury sedans, the Lexus IS is a comfortable and reliable vehicle and a great alternative to the expensive luxury vehicles on the market. Safety features range from stability control systems to multiple airbags.
The redesigned sport sedan has a Pre-Collision System that rivals the competition, three additional inches of rear-seat room, revised suspension and steering tuning. Standard features include touch-controlled automatic climate system, keyless entry, leather upholstery, a split-folding rear seat and complimentary real-time traffic and weather.
Infiniti Q50
#5This compact executive sedan starts at around $41,000 and gets great gas mileage: 20/29 mpg city/highway. It has many high-tech electronic and safety features such as Active Lane Control and Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Direct Adaptive Steering and dual LCD touch-screen controls.
The stylish sedan has an intricately detailed interior and smoother curves. It also features 6-speaker Bose audio with HD radio and CD player, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic temperature control and a power glass moonroof.
Whether you’re looking for a sedan with a sleek and sporty exterior or an entry-level luxury car with numerous innovative technology features, these are just five of the best luxury cars available this year.