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In the world of luxury cars, the usual suspects tend to stay at the top of the heap. And while BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi have their fair share of great cars, there are three comfortable models that are both affordable and punch above their weight. Cheap new luxury cars aren’t easy to find, but the Volvo S60, Genesis G70, and Cadillac CT4 are great options.

1. Cadillac CT4 – a cheap luxury car with a manual?

The new Cadillac CT4 luxury car
The 2023 Cadillac CT4 | Cadillac

The Cadillac CT4 is number one on this cheap new luxury cars list on price alone. With a starting MSRP of just over $34,000, it’s an incredibly affordable way to take home a true luxury car experience.

The cabin materials aren’t the best, but they offer plenty of comfort and style to put this compact Caddy firmly in the luxury category. Plus, the contoured seats provide ample support and comfort for long drives. There are also features like dual-zone automatic climate control and leather upholstery that make for a quality ride.

On looks, the CT4 is easy to love. It’s simple, yet stylish, offering more distinct looks than similar models from Audi and Acura. Moreover, the standard turbocharged engine is better than those entry-level choices as well.

At 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the CT4 handily surpasses the likes of the Audi A3 and Acura ILX. Plus, it offers a six-speed manual in a cheap luxury car, and who can’t appreciate that?

2. Genesis G70 – a balance of price, luxury and performance

The Genesis G70 is unique among cheap new luxury cars
2023 Genesis G70 | Genesis

The Genesis G70 is a bit of a vexing vehicle, at first. Considering the brand’s newcomer status, it’s impressive that it can create a product so wholly engrossing.

Sure, design elements can feel borrowed from German rivals. But the split-LED headlights and pentagonal grille of the G70 give it a gravitas that other cheap new luxury cars can’t match.

Furthermore, the base 2.0-liter engine is attached to a rear-wheel drive system. That should make enthusiasts happy, and we’re happy to report that the driving dynamics match the hype.

True speed hunters will want the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, but with a starting price of $39,140, the base 2.0-liter turbo offers plenty of fun.

One thing we can say against the Korean luxury car – the 10.5 cubic feet of trunk space holds the G70 back from being an excellent grand tourer.

3. Volvo S60 – not as cheap, but a well-appointed luxury car for the money

A gray Volvo S60 Recharge hybrid car charges under an awning.
Volvo S60 Recharge | Volvo

Volvo’s smallest luxury sedan is often passed over for its big brother, but we think that’s a mistake. The shorter wheelbase and lighter curb weight of the Volvo S60 make it much more fun than the beefier S90. That said, the S60 can still feel a bit heavy if you try to push the limits.

However, none of that matters when you get behind the wheel. Truthfully, the S60 isn’t about ripping through canyons. This relatively cheap luxury car is focused on simply eating miles and letting you forget where you are. The seats are sublime, the standard luxury kit excellent, and it has more cargo space than the competition, according to Car and Driver.

Advanced driver assists, including a left-turn city assistant, all come standard. And with a 2.0-liter turbocharged mild-hybrid offering 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, it’s got plenty of punch.

Stand out with one of these cheap new luxury cars

For an affordable luxury car that will stand out from the pack, any of these three models will do. They’re more unique than models from the German big three, and more comfortable than Japanese luxury brands. When it’s time to stand out, go against the grain with the Genesis, Cadillac, or Volvo.

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