10 Affordable Cars With Features You’d Expect in Luxury Models
Luxury features aren’t just for Mercedes and other high-end car brands anymore. Today, carmakers are doing what they can to equip more affordable cars with premium touches. Things that you used to only see in expensive vehicles are becoming more accessible to consumers. No matter what your budget is, you can find a car that you can be proud of. So, let’s take a look at 10 cars that you can buy on a budget that have some amazing features.
1. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic continues to redefine the compact car segment by including features that rival luxury vehicles. With a sleek exterior, its upscale cabin features soft-touch materials, a 9-inch touchscreen display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist add to its premium feel. Dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a customizable digital driver display are standard on higher trims. Not to mention, prices for the Civic start at $24,250, making it incredibly affordable.
2. Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla offers an impressive suite of advanced safety and comfort features for an affordable price. Toyota’s Safety Sense system includes pre-collision warnings, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Inside, a 10.5-inch infotainment screen with voice-activated commands feels futuristic. Ambient lighting and leatherette upholstery are available on upper trims, creating a sophisticated cabin. The quiet engine and smooth suspension system mimic what you’d find in pricier vehicles, all starting at $22,325.
3. Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra blends affordability with cutting-edge technology. A digital cockpit with dual 10.25-inch screens rivals many luxury models. Its bold design features LED headlights and a sporty grille that look upscale. Wireless charging pads, leather seating options, and premium audio elevate the experience. Smart Park Assist, typically seen in luxury vehicles, lets you park remotely. Starting at just $22,025, the Elantra feels like a luxury car at a fraction of the price.
4. Mazda3
The Mazda3 is widely praised for its refined interior and sporty performance. With optional leather upholstery and a Bose premium sound system, the cabin rivals entry-level luxury sedans. The minimalist dashboard features an 8.8-inch display controlled by a rotary dial, adding a touch of sophistication. Advanced safety tech, including traffic jam assist and adaptive headlights, enhances the driving experience. Its attention to detail, such as stitched panels and chrome accents, makes it feel expensive. Yet, it starts at a reasonable price point for most buyers at $23,950.
5. Kia K5
The Kia K5 delivers a bold, luxurious presence for $28,145+. The interior features heated and ventilated front seats, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof. The available all-wheel drive provides superior handling in all weather conditions. With a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a Bose sound system, the tech rivals that of higher-end sedans. Its turbocharged engine combines power and efficiency. The K5 redefines the mid-size sedan category with its mix of affordability and premium features.
6. Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta seamlessly blends classic design with modern features. Its comfortable interior includes ventilated seats, a digital cockpit, and customizable ambient lighting. The BeatsAudio sound system delivers rich sound quality usually reserved for luxury brands. Advanced driver assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, come standard. A smooth six-speed transmission and turbocharged engine provide a high-end feel while driving. With pricing starting at $21,995, it’s a steal for what it offers.
7. Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima impresses with upscale features like quilted leather seats and a remote engine start system. Its large 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation and wireless smartphone connectivity feels luxurious. Zero Gravity front seats provide unmatched comfort, reducing fatigue on long drives. ProPILOT Assist offers semi-autonomous driving features, elevating the tech appeal. With all-wheel drive available, it handles like a premium sedan in various weather conditions. Prices start at $27,000.
8. Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy combines the practicality of all-wheel drive with premium interior finishes. Its spacious cabin includes Nappa leather seats and a heated steering wheel for added luxury. The 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen and Harmon Kardon audio system enhance its tech appeal. Advanced safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist, come standard. The Legacy’s smooth ride quality and sound insulation create a serene driving experience. Starting at $25,010, it delivers great value.
9. Chevrolet Malibu
The Chevrolet Malibu stands out with a roomy interior and premium features like a dual-pane sunroof and leather seats. The infotainment system includes a vibrant 8-inch touchscreen with built-in Wi-Fi. Safety features such as lane departure warning and automated emergency braking add to its appeal. Its turbocharged engine provides both efficiency and power. Quiet cabin insulation and advanced climate controls make long drives enjoyable. With prices starting at $25,800, the Malibu remains a popular, budget-friendly choice.
10. Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick redefines the compact truck segment by offering luxury features at an affordable price. The interior includes a touchscreen display, wireless phone charging, and leather seating options. Dual-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel provide added comfort. Its standard hybrid powertrain offers impressive fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The Maverick’s smooth ride and versatile design give it a premium feel. Starting at just $23,920, it’s an unbeatable value in its category.
Luxury Features Without the Luxury Price
As there has been more innovation in the car industry, some features have become more accessible to drivers on a budget. You can find high-end materials and advanced technology in vehicles under $30,000. Where you might not have been able to afford such things in the past, these features have become readily available in most cars. So, no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll likely find something within your price range with all the bells and whistles you’ve dreamed of.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.