3 Affordable Cars with Premium Luxury Features
For some drivers, a premium experience means a powerful engine, superior handling, or advanced tech. But no matter who you ask, comfort is always going to up the desirability of any vehicle. While premium touches like digital dashes and ventilated seats used to be reserved for those in the society set, in 2023 even entry-level cars come with some high-end kit. Here are 3 affordable cars with premium luxury features, all for less than $40,000.
Hyundai Elantra Limited Hybrid offers affordable luxury and efficiency
These days, the Hyundai Elantra gets most of its press for the snarling, track-ready, cheaper-than-it-should-be Elantra N. And while that car is certainly worthy of praise, it isn’t the most luxurious car in the Elantra lineup.
That designation goes to the Elantra Limited Hybrid. In the top-spec version of Hyundai’s affordable compact sedan comes a host of luxury and tech. Features like heated and ventilated seats, an integrated seat memory system, and leather upholstery all come standard.
It also comes with a digital instrument cluster, voice-activated tech, and built-in navigation. And the best part? A starting tag of less than $30,000.
Kia Forte GT-Line with Sport Premium Package
Unlike its Korean cousin, the affordable Kia Forte doesn’t have any out-of-the-box models with premium luxury. However, the GT-Line with an optional Sport Premium package puts a host of luxurious features and tech into a new car for just under $26,000.
For that scratch comes a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with built-in memory slots and synthetic leather upholstery. In addition, the aforementioned heated and ventilated seats become part of the deal.
Once again, built-in navigation is included, as is a wireless charging pad. A premium Harman Kardon eight-speaker audio system gets packaged as well, plus a host of advanced driver aids like automatic braking. Finally, a power-sliding sunroof and a smart cruise control system that bundles with the in-car navigation system to automatically adjust speed according to changes in speed limit along the route.
About the only thing missing from this car versus a traditional luxury car with the same equipment is a monthly payment that will have you sleeping in the back seat. And even if it did, rear-seat air conditioning vents would do well to keep you comfy.
Honda Accord Touring Hybrid
Admittedly, the Honda Accord Touring Hybrid isn’t the cheapest car on this list, but at under $40,000, it’s not a budget killer either. In fact, with Google built-in and a head-up display, it proves its added value even among more high-end luxury kit.
The truth is, the Accord has been edging in on luxury car status since the last iteration. The newest model only takes that to new heights. The styling looks better in person than it does in photos, giving the Accord a very Audi-esque sense of crisp, elegant design.
It’s not all looks, though. The top-spec Accord delivers heated and ventilated seats to go along with its high-class tech. Bose premium audio and a self-opening trunk blend tech with function. And it comes with a 12.3-inch digital dash, remote start, and a flurry of advanced driver assistance features that handle everything short of full-on autonomous driving.
Affordable luxury cars punch above their weight
These days, most new models have the right tech and features for an enjoyable drive. But these three affordable cars have premium luxury features that put them above their weight class.
