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Most used midsize luxury cars will last well beyond 200,000 miles thanks to the premium materials used to manufacture them. Despite that, luxury cars depreciate quickly and are very affordable on the used market. A luxury car from a decade ago might not have the latest technology, but most drivers can’t be bothered to use every feature anyway. 

Some used midsize luxury cars from the 2010-2013 model years can be had for $10,000 or less. Here are some of the most reliable ones, according to J.D. Power (note: Even when a used car has a high reliability score, be sure to request its vehicle history report and have a mechanic inspect the car thoroughly before you buy it. The prices of the models listed here may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, or location).

The 2010 Lexus ES is an underrated used midsize luxury car

According to J.D. Power, you can find this Lexus ES for an average of just $9,026 to start. It holds a score of 93/100 for reliability and a rating of 82/100 for overall driving experience. Each of these cars is powered by a 272-hp V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel-drive. 

Critical reviews collected by U.S. News indicate that the Lexus ES is more geared toward cruising rather than sporty driving. Auto critics also highlighted the ES’s comfortable seats and all of the upscale materials used to decorate the interior. The Lexus ES had an extensive list of options when it was new, so yours might have ventilated seats or a panoramic sunroof. Drivers could also add quite a few advanced safety features, such as a backup camera and a pre-collision warning system.

Don’t sleep on the 2012 Cadillac CTS

This Cadillac CTS is even cheaper than the ES, starting at $7,349. It has a 78/100 score for drive quality, which is still considered average by J.D. Power standards. This sport sedan has a standard V6 with 265 hp on tap, with five extra ponies available if you added a dual-exhaust system. 

The 2012 Cadillac CTS could also be optioned with all-wheel drive and a 3.6-liter 318-hp V6. It had two different sport suspension upgrades depending on which optional package the driver purchased. According to Edmunds, the most athletic bundle also included sport brakes and a limited-slip differential. 

Its cabin is surrounded by wood trim, and every rider gets to sit on plush leather seats. Bluetooth and a Bose stereo system are standard for each model, though the 3.6 Performance trim added more speakers. This Cadillac CTS has a Great reliability rating from J.D. Power.

Why you should pay attention to the 2011 Acura TL

The 2011 Acura TL’s consumer satisfaction score is slightly higher than that of the Cadillac CTS, possibly due to all of its standard features. Each one has an iPod infotainment interface, a six-CD changer, Bluetooth, an aux jack, and even a sunroof. The average price for the cheapest trim is currently $8,101.

This TL model also offers you the choice between two V6 engine options, with the most powerful producing 305 hp. According to Edmunds, the bigger engine equipped with AWD can hit 60 mph in as little as 5.6 seconds. However, while the ride quality is smooth, the steering doesn’t provide enough feedback. 

The 2013 Audi A5 is another used midsize luxury car contender

Unlike many of its rivals at the time, this Audi A5 had a standard turbo-four capable of 211 hp. Higher trims might have either a supercharged 333-hp V6 or a 450-hp V8. J.D. Power didn’t rank the Audi A5’s performance, but the car did receive an 86/100 reliability rating. 

U.S. News says that the turbo-four showcases great performance, albeit with some turbo lag. Models with that engine currently cost around $8,295 on the used market. 

A 2013 Audi A5 closer to $14,000 might have the MMI infotainment interface, though many reviews suggested that it’s not worth the trouble. Every Audi A5 trim from this year reportedly features unique interior design language, setting it apart from its luxury rivals. Any of these sedans will do if you’re mainly looking for a reliable cruiser with high-class accommodations. 

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