Luxury Vehicle Buying Guide

Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating rough city streets, a comfortable ride can genuinely make your journey more enjoyable. To find the right vehicle, look for features such as specially tuned or adaptive suspension systems that deliver a smooth, quiet ride. Many luxury vehicles also offer quieter cabins thanks to effective noise isolation and premium materials. Additionally, consider models that let you select different driving modes, giving you the flexibility to switch between a zippy, sporty feel and a cozy, relaxed drive, depending on what suits you best.

• Adaptive suspension with variable spring rates

• Automatic load leveling

• Some vehicles can scan for road imperfections

• Optional magnetic ride control

• Advanced materials tuned for isolation

Luxury brands are typically at the forefront of innovation, leading the way with advanced technology. They've introduced features such as anti-lock brakes and touchscreen infotainment, and they continue to innovate with new technologies. Today, you can experience GM's impressive Super Cruise® hands-free system on vehicles like the Cadillac XT6 (available on 2022 and newer models) and other Cadillacs. The 2026 Escalade IQ even incorporates AI to help make real-time traffic decisions. Explore these exciting tech features to make your daily commute smoother and more enjoyable.

• Immersive digital cockpits

• AI-enhanced voice controls

• Remote valet parking

• Hands-free driver aids

• Heads-up displays

Luxury vehicles deliver smooth, powerful acceleration across gas, electric, and hybrid powertrain options. It's great to have a bit more horsepower for those busy morning freeway merges or when passing on the highway. You can find even better performance from sub-brands like BMW's M and Mercedes-Benz's AMG^®. Keep an eye out for upgraded performance suspensions with features like active roll stabilization, making your weekend drives more enjoyable and handling more precise. Plus, luxury cars come with optional features like carbon-ceramic brakes for even better stopping power.

• Turbo V8 engines deliver enormous torque

• Multi-motor EV options for instant acceleration

• Hybrid powertrains reduce turbo lag

• Active torque-vectoring

• Brake-by-wire technology

When selecting features for a used luxury vehicle, consider how you plan to use the car and which features are must-haves for you. You might want to prioritize comfort options, such as leather seats or heated and cooled seats, or focus on driver-assist features, such as lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. Keep in mind that some advanced components, such as air suspension or carbon-ceramic brakes, offer improved performance but can be more complex to maintain.

• Interior material like leather and Alcantara

• Integration of technology

• Engine, suspension, and braking features

Luxury vehicles are all about finding the perfect mix of practicality and style. SUVs provide great versatility with features like three-row seating and spacious cargo areas, making them ideal for active lifestyles. Luxury sedans focus on giving passengers a comfortable and plush ride. On the other hand, luxury coupes and convertibles are all about the joy of driving, even if that means sacrificing some rear legroom and trunk space. Knowing what you need from your driving experience will help you pick the perfect luxury vehicle for you.

• Annual driving mileage

• City vs. highway driving

• Cargo space requirements

Figuring out your overall budget is an important part of your luxury car shopping journey. Your budget can help you prioritize the right options for your needs. Keep in mind that, besides the purchase price, owning a luxury vehicle can mean higher ongoing costs compared with regular cars. These can include special maintenance, premium fuel, and higher insurance rates. Additionally, factors such as depreciation can affect how well your vehicle retains its value over time.

• Fuel consumption calculations

• Long-term maintenance costs

• Insurance and local tax considerations

The Acura RDX is a compact, agile five-seater ideal for urban commuting. The larger Acura MDX is a three-row midsize SUV that seats up to seven passengers, offers more power, and delivers impressive towing capacity, making it ideal for families.

Acura MDX Advantages

• Third row seats up to seven, making it a true family hauler

• The standard V6 engine and available Type S performance variant deliver more robust power

• Great cargo capacity, particularly when the second and third rows are folded

Acura RDX Advantages

• Agile and easy to maneuver and park in tight environments

• The turbocharged four-cylinder engine typically delivers good EPA-estimated mpg

• The RDX has a lower starting price, depending on trim level

The Infiniti QX60 is a larger, three-row SUV that seats seven and offers more power and superior towing capabilities. The Volvo XC60 is a nimble, five-passenger compact offering hybrid power and great driver aids.

Infiniti QX60 Advantages

• Standard three-row seating that accommodates up to seven passengers

• Great cargo space overall, especially when the seats are folded

• Broad range of premium optional features, including massaging front seats (2022+) and an upgraded sound system.

Volvo XC60 Advantages

• Standard suite of driver-assistance features

• Easy to maneuver and park in tight urban spaces

• Distinctive Scandinavian design

The BMW X1 delivers superior driving performance and cargo space, with a sportier driving experience. The Lincoln MKC prioritizes plush ride comfort and a wealth of luxury features for the money.

BMW X1 Advantages

• Nimble handling, making it feel like a sports sedan

• Available driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking (standard for 2023+) and blind spot monitoring (2016+)

• Flexible cargo space, optional sliding rear seats, and a smooth-loading bay

Lincoln MKC Advantages

• Great base horsepower and torque, giving it a strong, confident feel on the road.

• Plenty of front legroom for taller drivers or during long journeys.

• Lincoln models typically start at a lower price point, making them a strong value in the luxury vehicle market.

Interested in comparing more luxury vehicles?