The Best Used Luxury Cars

Top of the line Mercedes-Benz AMG models can run into six figures even used, but a solid E-Class wagon can cost less than half that. Venture over to Cadillac and the name alone evokes a feeling of heritage luxury; on the other end of the scale, Genesis is a relative up-and-comer brand with a lot to offer. Rounding out our list of favorite luxury used cars is a classic Lexus model and an Alfa Romeo with bite. 

Check out our list of some of the best used luxury cars on the market: 

1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon

Oh yes, we’re starting our list of the best used luxury cars with a wagon because this is no ordinary people hauler: it’s the four-wheeled equivalent of a  luxury liner. Find an E-Class wagon with the four-corner air suspension if it’s in your budget, because it’s well worth it. Models from 2018 and newer come with a power liftgate, a sunroof, Mercedes-Benz’ premium simulated leather upholstery, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more. Creature comfort packages are available in a variety of formats to add items such as fast-heating seats or a Burmester audio system upgrade. As Autoweek describes, the only engine option for the E400 wagon is the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6: a smooth, 329-hp, 354-lb-ft motor paired with an equally smooth nine-speed automatic.

The Verdict:

Car and Driver dings the 2018 version on its “clunky infotainment system and pricey options,” but overall the wagon earned a score of 9 out of 10 for what it calls “gutsy V6 power,” a roomy and luxurious cabin, and loads of tech features.

Where To Buy A Used Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon Online:

– Shop For A Used Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon on Carvana.com

– Shop For A Used Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon on Vroom.com

2. Cadillac CTS-V

As a base model, Cadillac’s lovely CTS sedan rocks a 268-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an equal number in torque. It’s well-equipped with performance brakes, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, an 11-speaker Bose audio system, and lots more. Step up to the V-Sport trim for a more powerful 335-horsepower V6 and more goodies inside, and you can still get this used luxury car in a 2016 or 2017 model for less than $30,000. 

But if you want even more performance and an absolute thrill ride, you’re going to want to take a look at the CTS-V variant of this sedan. Powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, the CTS-V is an unparalleled whip on the road.

The Verdict:

“Think of the CTS-V as a more practical Corvette Z06, one with four doors,” says Autoweek of the 2016 CTS-V. “Heck yeah, you want it.” 

If it’s in your budget range, splurge for the CTS-V and all of its glorious horsepower. But you can’t go wrong with the V-Sport version, either.

Where To Buy A Used Cadillac CTS-V Online:

– Shop Cadillac CTS-V on Carvana.com

– Shop Cadillac CTS-V on Vroom.com

3. Lexus ES 350 

Generation after generation, Lexus’ midgrade luxury sedan delivers on its promise of a ride fit for those who want a better-than average car — safely earning it a place in our list of the best used luxury cars. With a 15.2-cubic-foot trunk and a rear seat pass-through, this sedan has the ability to handle a few golf bags or enough luggage for a family of four for a long weekend. All the way back to the start of the sixth generation, 2013 and newer ES 350s are powered by a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine with front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. In 2019, the ES 350 received an update and Lexus squeezed another 34 hp out of the same V6.

The Verdict:

Refined with a wonderfully smooth ride, the Lexus ES 350 will last a long time, and it’s definitely worth buying used. According to Car and Driver, “The sleek 2019 Lexus ES is not only elegant inside and out, it also provides peaceful, worry-free cruising.” 

Where To Buy A Used Lexus ES 350 Online:

– Shop For A Lexus ES 350 on Carvana.com

– Shop For A Lexus ES 350 on Vroom.com

4. Alfa Romeo Giulia 

Brand new in 2017, the Alfa Romeo Giulia is like that interesting exchange student at your high school: exotic, fascinating, and cultured. It was launched with three trims (base, Ti, and Quadrifoglio) and two engines, starting with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making a respectable 280 horsepower. For all the joy you can stand, look for the top trim Quadrifoglio because it snaps to attention with a crisp 505-hp turbocharged 2.9-liter V6. Model year 2020 saw some welcome changes, like better use of storage space and available adaptive cruise control. This Italian stallion is a wild and enjoyable beast.

The Verdict:

This is the sport sedan you’re looking for. Autoweek noted that “the throttle is sensitive, which means smooth takeoffs, especially in dynamic mode, are hard to do.” However, it is “sweet to drive” and offers up a spirited, thrilling ride that only the Italians can master. Yes, the Giulia is worthy of mention in a conversation about the best used luxury cars on the market.

Where To Buy A Used Alfa Romeo Giulia Online:

– Shop For A Used Alfa Romeo Giulia on Carvana.com

– Shop For A Used Alfa Romeo Giulia on Vroom.com

5. Genesis 70 

Rising up from its station as a model name, Genesis is now its own standalone brand and it’s taking a victory lap after a few years as a rising star. Genesis’ midsize G70 has a bone to pick with some of its competitors like BMW’s 3 Series or Audi’s A5 and it has been gaining ground. Available in several trim configurations, the G70 starting in 2019 comes with a turbocharged 252-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or the turbocharged 365-hp 3.3-liter V6. Inside, the G70 is ergonomically pleasing and plush.

The Verdict:

Autoweek approves: “The cabin of the Genesis G70 is certainly as nice as a BMW or Audi (maybe not Mercedes-Benz) and more ergonomically designed too.”  

Where To Buy A Used Genesis 70 Online:

– Shop For A Used Genesis 70 on Carvana.com

– Shop For A Used Genesis 70 on Vroom.com

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