The Best Luxury Cars to Buy Used for Long-Term Savings and Reliability

When it comes to luxury vehicles, many believe that buying a new car is the only way to go. However, the right used luxury car can offer excellent value and a reliable option without breaking the bank. In this article, we explore some of the top luxury brands and specific models that are worth considering for a used purchase. We'll also discuss why used luxury cars can offer long-term savings and reliability.

Why Used Luxury Cars?

Buying a used luxury car can be an excellent way to save money while still enjoying the luxury features and performance of a high-end vehicle. According to a recent analysis, used luxury cars can save buyers up to 30% on the cost of a new car. Additionally, luxury brands often offer impressive warranties and maintenance plans for their used vehicles, making them a sound investment.

Top Picks for Used Luxury Cars

While Lexus is a standout choice due to its solid reliability and cost-effective maintenance, other brands and models offer unique advantages. Let's dive into some of the best options for a used luxury car.

Lexus: Tarted-Up Toyota Meets Great Value

Lexus has a reputation for being a refined and reliable brand, often serving as a more affordable alternative to other luxury manufacturers. According to Qwen, a used luxury car expert, Lexus is merely a "tarted-up Toyota," which means it tends to be less expensive to maintain and possess better long-term reliability. This aspect is crucial when balancing the cost of ownership with the car's longevity.

One example is the Lexus GX, specifically the 10-year-old version with 125,000 miles. Qwen mentions owning this car, which he bought for less than half the price of a new vehicle, and driving it to 190,000 miles. Despite needing maintenance over the years, the costs were significantly lower compared to other luxury SUVs he owned, such as Land Rovers.

Classic Luxury: Rolls-Royce and Lincolns

For those seeking a truly classic luxury experience, older models can be found at surprisingly low prices. According to Qwen, you can find a 40-year-old Rolls-Royce for under $20,000 in the USA. Although these cars are not up to today's standards in terms of features, they still offer a luxurious and historical experience. Lincolns are another excellent choice. They are less noticeable on the road and can provide a combination of reliability and style without the hulking presence of some other luxury brands.

Electric Luxury: Genesis GV60

For eco-conscious buyers, the Genesis GV60 is a compelling choice. Despite having middling range, it offers fast charging and zippy performance, making it a great commuter car. This electric vehicle provides a blend of luxury and sustainability, with interesting features that make it stand out.

The Disconnect Between Luxury and Reliability

It's important to note that luxury cars are inherently 'feature rich'. All these advanced features come with their own failure modes, and over time, the cumulative effect can lead to unreliability. Simple issues that can be diagnosed and fixed are usually accessible, but many components are deeply integrated into the vehicle, requiring significant labor hours to repair. Moreover, many newly purchased modules necessitate reprogramming and coding by dealers, which adds to the complexity and cost.

As a result, many luxury cars lose their reliability after just 4-5 years. In contrast, used luxury cars from Toyota-based brands like Lexus (which are often termed "lexus-off-lease") tend to perform exceptionally well. They are rigorously tested for four years on the road before release, ensuring high reliability. For instance, buying a used Lexus off-lease with 60,000 km can provide a decade of reliable comfort, making it a wise investment.

Conclusion

Buying a used luxury car can be a smart financial decision, offering excellent value and long-term reliability. Whether you're drawn to classic luxury, electric performance, or simply the cost-effective maintenance of Lexus, there are several models that can meet your needs. Always prioritize careful research and a thorough inspection to ensure you find the best value for your budget and preferences.