Buying a Luxury Car
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If you’re a car shopper looking for something with more style, more comfort and more opulence than your average mainstream vehicle, a luxury car is the way to go. Those seeking status, exclusivity and a pampered driving experience will find the right vehicle in a diverse selection of sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks and even trucks from luxury brands like BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz.
With new technology constantly climbing to ever-increasing heights, luxury cars are known for embracing the latest gadgetry before it becomes available in more mainstream vehicles. This translates into features like automatic parking assist, anti-lock brakes and rearview cameras. Adding to the appeal is often a premium cabin with leather upholstery and unique touches like front and rear climate control, a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Many luxury cars are known for their impressive handling capabilities, and they’re designed to be enjoyable for both driver and passengers. However, not all of them are equal in this regard, and buyers need to do their research first to ensure that the vehicle they choose is a fun ride for driving enthusiasts. If it isn’t, they may want to consider a more affordable model or another brand altogether.
Regardless of whether or not the vehicle you choose is fun to drive, it’s important that it offers the latest in safety features. You can do your research by consulting third-party sources such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to see how each vehicle stacks up with crash tests and rollover tests.
It’s also worth noting that most luxury cars are built using higher-grade parts, which is why they often feature better safety ratings than most other models. That said, there are exceptions, and the best way to know is to check each vehicle’s safety rating before you buy it.
Choosing the right luxury car will ultimately come down to your preferences and priorities. Those who aren’t interested in going green will probably be satisfied with the latest model from a mainstream manufacturer while those who prefer off-road capability can look to Land Rover for its impressive line-up of hybrid and electric vehicles.
Lexus redefined automotive luxury when it launched the LS 400 in 1989, and it remains one of the most popular luxury sedans on the market today with a spacious interior and updated infotainment system. With long-term reliability baked in from parent company Toyota, Lexus offers a no-fuss approach to premium luxury that’s hard to beat. Meanwhile, GM’s Cadillac brand continues to draw attention with the ultra-priced Escalade and its roomy, refined interior. The American automaker is also gaining a reputation for introducing innovative luxury electric vehicle technologies, including the carbon-neutral Blackwing Edition that puts out an impressive 668 horsepower from a supercharged V8. Lastly, exotic names like Alfa Romeo and Bugatti offer both style and speed that’s sure to turn heads.