Why Buy a Luxury Car?
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Luxury cars are a category of automobile that combines comfort, performance and technology. Features that are available only in luxury models might include anti-lock brakes, backup and front-view cameras and dual touchscreen systems. Many of these features trickle down from higher-end vehicles to mid-size models and then to more affordable vehicles. Luxury cars are typically well-appointed and may be trimmed with fine leathers or woods. Some are also designed to stand out on the street. They’re expensive to purchase and often depreciate quickly, but many owners consider them worth it because they provide a high-end driving experience.
Luxury vehicles come in coupes, sedans, SUVs and pickup trucks. Some manufacturers, like Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and Cadillac, have built up reputations as luxury brands. Others, such as Ford and Jeep, blur the lines between luxury and regular vehicles with their top-of-the-line trim levels. These premium models may offer a wide range of amenities, including a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Some might have a rear-view camera, dual-zone climate control and even a remote starter.
Manufacturers promote these upscale vehicles as a way for buyers to feel as though they’re getting the best of the best, while enjoying more features and options than are available in lower-priced models. Luxury vehicles are often more fuel efficient than less-expensive models from the same manufacturer, with some even offering hybrid powertrains. Some manufacturers also offer warranties and concierge services that aren’t available in lesser vehicles.
Some drivers choose luxury cars as a status symbol, a sign that they’ve “made it.” Others buy them to enjoy the high-performance handling and refined engine noises. Still, other people might want to drive a luxury car because it’s simply more comfortable than the average vehicle on the road.
It’s important to keep in mind that just because a vehicle is a luxury model, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it has the highest level of quality or safety. It’s a good idea to look at crash tests and other reviews by independent organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety before you make your decision.
Another reason to consider a luxury vehicle is that it’s often faster than many of its competitors. This can be especially true if the vehicle is equipped with a V-8 or six-cylinder engine. The added power can deliver a smoother ride and more thrills when it’s driven on twisty roads. Luxury cars may also feature features that aren’t available in other vehicles, such as electronic parking aids and rain-sensing windshield wipers. They’re also more likely to have higher-quality interior materials, better seating, and the latest infotainment and telematics technologies. You might also be able to upgrade your luxury model with extras such as a sunroof, heated steering wheel and dual-screen entertainment systems. Many luxury vehicles have a sleek, aerodynamic design that’s easy to handle and fun to drive. The resulting driving experience is one that is hard to match by any other type of vehicle.