Charles Esther
Luxury cars don’t always have to come with steep ownership costs. In 2025, the used car market is filled with premium models that blend comfort, advanced features, and stylish design with proven reliability and value retention.
Premium Experience For Less
From sleek sedans to family SUVs, these pre-owned vehicles provide the prestige and performance of high-end brands without the hefty price tag. Many models offer leather interiors, advanced technology, and refined driving performance at surprisingly affordable prices.
How Rankings Were Compiled
This list draws on data from J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports. Vehicles are ranked from lowest to highest reliability scores, considering cost of ownership, recalls, and maintenance needs.
10 – 2021 Cadillac CT5
Reliability Score: 80/100
Average Price: $31,844
Cadillac’s compact luxury sedan offers character and optional twin-turbo performance. Reliability is strong, but past recalls mean buyers should ensure fixes are completed.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $9,819 (CarEdge)
- Recalls: 4
9 – 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Reliability Score: 81/100
Average Price: $29,950
The C-Class delivers tech-heavy luxury and sophistication. While not the most reliable brand overall, this model fares better than others but comes with expensive upkeep.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $739 (RepairPal)
- Recalls: 7
8 – 2018 Audi A6
Reliability Score: 82/100
Average Price: $19,499
This midsize sedan balances elegance with engaging performance. While Audi’s reputation for reliability is mixed, the 2018 A6 stands out as solid.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $913 (RepairPal)
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $10,015
- Recalls: 2
7 – 2021 BMW 3-Series
Reliability Score: 82/100
Average Price: $29,465
Long hailed as the benchmark sports sedan, the 3-Series remains a strong choice. Modern BMWs have improved reliability, though ownership costs remain high.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $748
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $14,159
- Recalls: 8
6 – 2020 Volvo S60
Reliability Score: 84/100
Average Price: $22,644
The S60 combines Scandinavian design with advanced safety and luxury. Reliability is strong, though buyers should check for possible transmission concerns.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $750
- Recalls: 5
5 – 2018 Audi A4
Reliability Score: 85/100
Average Price: $17,786
Positioned between the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class, the A4 offers balance. The 2018 model is well-regarded but requires diligent maintenance.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $739
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $9,649
- Recalls: 4
4 – 2021 BMW 4-Series
Reliability Score: 87/100
Average Price: $35,047
Available as a coupe or fastback, the 4-Series extends BMW’s sporty DNA. Reliability matches the 3-Series, but maintenance costs remain a consideration.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Recalls: 5
3 – 2022 Genesis G80
Reliability Score: 87/100
Average Price: $35,184
Genesis continues to challenge established luxury brands with strong quality and value. Supported by Hyundai engineering, the G80 offers long-term dependability.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $7,679
- Recalls: 3
2 – 2021 Lexus ES
Reliability Score: 87/100
Average Price: $32,447
Known for comfort and long-term dependability, the ES is among the most reliable sedans. Slow depreciation makes it an excellent value.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $468
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $5,945
- Recalls: 1
1 – 2022 Lexus IS
Reliability Score: 92/100
Average Price: $37,137
Compact, sporty, and extremely reliable, the IS leads the rankings. With strong resale value and low maintenance costs, it represents the best used luxury buy in 2025.
Maintenance Snapshot
- Avg. Yearly Cost: $543
- Est. 10-Year Cost: $5,901
- Recalls: 0
