Even so, everyone should own a used luxury car at least once, if only to get it out of their system. It also helps if you go into this endeavor knowing what to expect, so you won’t be surprised when Merc hits you with a $900 bill for a basic oil and oil filter service. Fortunately, there are also used luxury cars with decent reliability scores. They might not be as prestigious as a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but they certainly live up to any expectations you might have regarding luxury vehicles.
With that in mind, here’s a list of the 12 best used luxury cars under $30k.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
We might as well get the most obvious luxury sedan out of the way first. For roughly $30,000, you can get a 2015 S550 4Matic with nearly 100,000 miles on the clock. Unfortunately, AMG models are a little bit out of range, but you still get a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 and all-wheel drive. It’s no slouch off the line, as the 450-horsepower engine provides strong acceleration. S-Class models have always been known for strong safety scores, but the best thing about the S is the high-tech features. Mercedes-Benz has always used its top-tier sedan to debut nifty interior and safety features that eventually filter down to the rest of the range.
The W222 didn’t receive the best reliability ratings, so it’s important to check that all recall work has been done to the car. A full service history is also a must.
Finally, keep an eye out for scratches on the wheels. S-Class models usually have a complex suspension setup, resulting in the smoothest ride in the industry. The last thing you want to do is buy a car from someone who couldn’t park or drive properly, in which case the suspension might not be top-notch anymore.
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222) | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 2014 – 2020 |
| Base MSRP when new | $94,400 (2015 model) |
| Engines* | 3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
| 3.0L V6 plug-in hybrid | |
| 4.0L twin-turbo V8 | |
| 4.7L twin turbo V8 | |
| 6.0L twin-turbo V12 | |
| *AMG versions of the sixth-gen S-Class were also available, but these are very unlikely to be available for under $30k | |
BMW 7 Series
The S-Class and 7 Series have been in an ongoing battle for decades. BMW is currently in the lead, but only because Mercedes-Benz seemingly forgot the definition of luxury. Like the S, the 7 Series is equipped with every conceivable luxury and safety item available at the time. Deciding between them is a matter of personal preference, but we recommend going for the 7 if satisfying handling is your thing. The 7 Series is a Limo GTI, which tends to shrink around you.
The 7 Series also tends to lose value quicker than the S-Class, so you can be creative with the budget. You can get a 2019 740i with the silky-smooth turbocharged inline-six or a 2016 750i with 56,000 miles on the clock this this price range. Both engines are still in use, and reports indicate that the sixth-gen 7 Series is relatively trouble-free. However, we’d still want a full service history for added peace of mind.
| BMW 7 Series (G11) | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 2016 – 2022 |
| Base MSRP when new | $81,300 (2016 model) |
| Engines | 3.0L turbocharged I6 |
| 3.0L turbocharged I6 plug-in hybrid | |
| 4.4L twin-turbo V8 | |
| 6.6L twin-turbo V12 | |
Lexus LS
The variety of LS models available for less than $30,000 is staggering. You can get an OG first-generation in pristine condition for as little as $12,000. The average price for a third-gen model is roughly $15,000, while a facelifted fourth-generation model is between $20,000-$25,000. The best thing about the LS is that it’s bulletproof, no matter which generation you choose. It also does the same job as the S-Class and 7 Series, so you get one of the best luxury cars ever made.
A Lexus LS is also the perfect large sedan if you want to blend in. You get the same sort of spacious cabin, quality leather seats, generous rear-seat legroom, and a host of standard features, but wrapped up in a less flashy package. If you want the most luxurious car under $30k you can get, you can do far worse than the LS.
| Lexus LS (Fourth Generation) | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 2007 – 2017 |
| Base MSRP when new | $72,520 (2017 model) |
| Engines | 4.6L V8 |
| 5.0L V8 hybrid | |
Lexus ES
Want Lexus LS-like luxury but with excellent fuel economy? Then, the Lexus ES is the answer you’re looking for. There are several 2019 and 2020 low mileage models available, all powered by Toyota’s well-known 3.5-liter V6, paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Because these vehicles are only three to four years old, you get most modern safety and comfort features as standard, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and good safety ratings across the model range. And because this is basically a Camry in business attire, it’s going to last a lifetime.
