Are you dreaming of driving a luxury car but worried about the hefty price tag? Well, fear not! Edmunds has got you covered with a list of the best used luxury vehicles that won't break the bank. These cars offer a refined driving experience and superior comfort and technology features, all for under $40,000. Let's dive into five of our favorites and discover how you can get behind the wheel of a luxury vehicle without overspending.
Small Sedan: BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series is a fun-to-drive sedan with smooth and powerful engines and sporty handling. If you're in the market for a used model, look for the seventh-generation version that rolled into dealerships for the 2019 model year. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides added power, improved handling, and a slightly larger trunk. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option for better traction in winter weather. The sporty M340i and plug-in hybrid 330e are available, but the base 330i is the easiest way to stay under $40,000. Make sure to get one equipped with advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.
Subcompact SUV: Mercedes-Benz GLB
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a savvy choice for a subcompact luxury SUV. Initially available with a 221-horsepower four-cylinder engine and front- or all-wheel drive, Mercedes added a sportier 302-horsepower variant called the AMG GLB 35 in 2021. The GLB offers a roomy cabin and good outward visibility, with an optional third row that's suitable for small kids. The regular GLB 250 provides excellent performance, high economy, and a smooth ride, with plenty of used 2023 and 2024 models available for under $40,000. Again, make sure to get one equipped with advanced driver aids.
Small SUV: Genesis GV70
The Genesis GV70 is a stylish and powerful small SUV that made its debut for the 2022 model year. It comes with a choice of a 300-horsepower four-cylinder engine or an available 375-horsepower V6, providing impressive acceleration. The GV70 features an attractive cabin, numerous standard features, and a spacious cargo area. You'll find plenty of 2022 and 2023 GV70s for under $40,000, with the 2.5T designation indicating the four-cylinder engine and 3.5T indicating the V6.
Three-Row SUV: Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is a versatile luxury SUV with three rows of seating that offers a surprising blend of sportiness and comfort. A redesign for the 2022 model year brought a more energetic-looking exterior, more legroom for all three rows, and improved technology features. The base engine is a 290-horsepower V6 with front- or all-wheel drive, while a punchier 335-horsepower Type S model is available. You should have no trouble finding a 2022 MDX for under $40,000, with the MDX A-Spec trim level offering sportier styling and appealing convenience and technology features.
Three-Row SUV: Buick Enclave
For a true family hauler, the Buick Enclave is a great choice. Straddling the line between mainstream and luxury brands, the Enclave offers more SUV for your money than a rival with a more upscale badge. An all-new Enclave came out for the 2025 model year, but you'll want to look at the previous-generation model produced from 2018 to 2024. Edmunds found this older version to be stylish and highly capable of hauling people, cargo, or a combination of the two. Aim for a 2023 or 2024 Enclave in the midlevel Premium trim, which comes with desirable extras like ventilated front seats and a premium sound system.
So, are you ready to upgrade your driving experience without breaking the bank? These used luxury vehicles offer a blend of style, performance, and comfort, all for under $40,000. With the right pick, you can enjoy added pride of ownership and many miles of driving pleasure. But here's where it gets controversial... What do you think? Do you agree with Edmunds' choices, or do you have a favorite used luxury vehicle that didn't make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
