Quick Research: 11 Most Reliable Used Luxury Cars

Written by

CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

Updated on November 16th, 2024

Reading Time: 7 minutes
Summary
  • Luxury cars often depreciate faster than average, so pre-owned ones often come at bargain prices.
  • Some reliable pre-owned luxury cars include the seventh-generation Porsch 911, sixth-generation Lexus ES, and first-generation Genesis G80, among others.
  • You may need to replace old, worn-out, and faulty parts if you’re getting a second hand luxury car.

Want to spoil yourself with a luxury car but couldn’t because most of your top picks are out of your budget? One way to make your dream come true is to buy a used luxury car. Luxury brands often depreciate faster than average, so you can expect to find all kinds of pre-owned luxury vehicles at bargain prices.

At the same time, you also want to avoid getting stuck with a daily driver that costs a lot to maintain. That’s why we came up with a list of the most reliable used luxury cars so that you can have your cake and eat it too.

11 Reliable Used Luxury Cars To Consider if You Want Style and Savings

Here are the most dependable luxury cars based on their cost of ownership, long-term and predicted reliability, and safety.

Seventh-Generation Porsche 911 (2015-2019)

The Porsche 911’s distinct design never fails to turn heads for all the right reasons. Image source: Porsche Newsroom.

The Porsche 911’s distinct design never fails to turn heads for all the right reasons. This reliable luxury sports car drives like a thoroughbred while pampering its occupants with the opulence of a luxury vehicle. Its 2018 model year is highly recommended.

Sixth-Generation Lexus ES (2015-2018)

If you like the Toyota Avalon, then you’ll love its luxury car half-sister Lexus ES. Image source: Lexus Newsroom.

If you like the Toyota Avalon, then you’ll love its luxury car half-sister. The 2017 Lexus ES boasts the legendary Toyota reliability while offering even more creature comforts than the already-loaded Avalon, like generous rear legroom and an intuitive infotainment system.

First-Generation Genesis G80 (2016-2020)

The Genesis G80 offers a good mix of comfort, reliability, and affordability. Image source: Genesis Media Center.

The Genesis G80 is a relatively new entry in the luxury mid-size sedan market, but it makes up for that with its good mix of comfort, reliability, and affordability. Its 2017 model year comes with a wide array of amenities and safety features. It also doesn’t lack engine power.

2019 Lincoln Corsair

The Lincoln Corsair offers the stylish design and cutting-edge features of a luxury vehicle at a price that isn’t out of reach. Image source: Lincoln Media Center.

If you want a compact crossover SUV with all of the strengths of the Ford Escape and the perks of a luxury car, then the 2019 Lincoln Corsair is perfect for you. It offers the stylish design and cutting-edge features of a luxury vehicle at a price that isn’t out of reach even before you factor in depreciation.

Second-Generation BMW 2 Series (2019-present)

When it comes to performance and safety on the road, the BMW 2 Series delivers in style. Image source: BMW USA News.

When it comes to performance and safety on the road, the BMW 2 Series delivers in style. Available in coupe and convertible models with several engine options to choose from, the 2 Series is a dream to drive. The 2019 model year comes standard with features like adjustable seats and an easy-to-use infotainment system.

2018 Tesla Model 3

No one makes electric vehicles like Tesla, and their Model 3 is their most accessible model. Image source: Tesla.

No one makes electric vehicles like Tesla, and their Model 3 is their most accessible model. It can go fast and stop just as quickly, and its sparse yet sleek interior will make you think you’re flying a starship from a classic sci-fi show.

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia

If you want nothing more than to drive a fast Italian luxury car at high speeds, look no further than the 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia. Image source: Wikimedia.

If you want nothing more than to drive a fast Italian luxury car at high speeds, look no further than the 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia. This small but powerful car is just as home on the racetrack as it is on the streets.

The 2017 model year got excellent ratings in safety, so you can have that peace of mind while you drive. Consider investing in better seats than the ones that come with the base model for optimum comfort.

2019 Jaguar I-Pace

The Jaguar I-PACE has plenty of electric power to spare for acceleration, a smooth ride, and efficient braking. Image source: Jaguar Media.

The 2019 Jaguar I-Pace can give the Tesla Model 3 a run for its money on the road. It has plenty of electric power to spare for acceleration, a smooth ride, and efficient braking. Its only downside is having uncomfortable rear seats and a lackluster infotainment system. But besides that, the 2019 model year is overall a great choice for a luxury electric vehicle.

Fourth-Generation Lexus RX (2016-present)

The Lexus RX350 and its hybrid version are reliable, affordable, and sturdy luxury crossovers. Image source: Lexus Newsroom.

The Lexus RX350 and its hybrid version are reliable, affordable, and sturdy luxury crossovers. While the RX Hybrid has superior fuel efficiency, the standard RX 350 is no slouch in fuel economy.

Both versions have sufficient engine power for most tasks. They also have a well-furnished cabin, plenty of passenger space, and superb ride and handling.

Fourth-Generation Lexus GS (2013-2020)

Lexus GS offers an excellent driving experience, thanks to its roomy interior with comfortable seats and plush leather upholstery. Image source: Lexus Newsroom.

The 2015 model year of the Lexus GS comes with a fuel-efficient engine, which works well alongside its superb suspension and steering. And thanks to its roomy interior with comfortable seats and plush leather upholstery, you’ll enjoy an excellent driving experience every time you take it out for a ride.

Mercedes-AMG GT (2015-present)

The Mercedes-AMG GT offers plenty of headroom and legroom for you and whoever is riding shotgun, and its seats offer excellent lumbar support. Image source: Wikimedia.

Even a depreciated 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT may prove too much for most pockets. But those who can afford it will get bragging rights about owning one of the best luxury sports cars available. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom for you and whoever is riding shotgun, and its seats offer excellent lumbar support.

Working On a Tight Budget: Best Used Luxury Sedans Under $20,000

Luxury sedans are high-end vehicles for a reason. Most of these cars hold their value well, making them a great choice even for a used vehicle.

Still, you can come across a lot of affordable used luxury cars, with some of them amounting to less than $20,000.

2012 Cadillac SRX

Average Selling Price: $11,038

The Cadillac SRX is a midsize SUV that boasts an impressive cargo area and a quiet cabin. According to RepairPal, the model has a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking seventh out of 14 luxury midsize SUVs.

2013 Audi A5

Average Selling Price: $17,518

Most people think that driving a luxury car means spending more on fuel, but that’s not the case with the 2013 Audi A5.

The A5 is known for having great gas mileage for its class on top of the model’s classic styling, confident handling, and uptown interior.

2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Average Selling Price: $14,436

Mercedes-Benz vehicles certainly live up to their reputation of being one of the most reliable luxury cars in the market, and the E-Class largely contributes to the brand’s trustworthy image.

Superb ride and handling balance, extensive safety features, and a spacious interior have always been staples in E-Class cars. The 2012 model also came with various engine options that suit almost every driving style.

2015 Infiniti Q40

Average Selling Price: $18,707

The 2015 Infiniti Q40 is the final installment of the G37. The Q40 boasts a sharp handling performance, a muscular engine that’s too good for its price, and a user-friendly tech interface.

Getting the Most Out of Your Used Luxury Car

For those who have decided to get a pre-owned luxury car, keep in mind that the vehicle may have accumulated some wear and tear. You may need to replace old, faulty, or worn-out parts.

Don’t hesitate to ask the dealer or seller about the used luxury car you’re eyeing. The more you know, the better. And if the other party seems to be hiding something, consider looking for a different vehicle.

Inspect the vehicle’s exterior and interior. Look for anything that’s amiss, such as visible damage or a strange smell. If its appearance passes muster, ask to take the car for a test drive. And just to be safe, get the professional opinion of a trustworthy mechanic.

Last but not least, go over the vehicle’s documentation. If you’re getting it from a used car dealership, get the vehicle history report. For a vehicle sold by a private individual, ask for its title and registration.

As long as you know what you’re looking for, you can get plenty of value out of a used luxury car.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.