The phrase “affordable luxury” seems like an oxymoron, but when shopping used, there are some high-class bargains out there. Thanks to the rapid depreciation of high-end vehicles, there are several luxury cars that can be had for less than the cost of a new Toyota Corolla. Here are the five most-reliable luxury cars you can buy for under $20,000 in 2023.

1. 2012 Lincoln MKZ

Though it doesn’t make luxury cars anymore, it wasn’t long ago that Lincoln was churning out some stylish and comfortable sedans. We believe that Lincoln never got the appreciation it deserved for models like the Continental and this, the Lincoln MKZ. Specifically, we’re looking at the 2012 Lincoln MKZ, which can be had today for a shade over $10,000 if you know where to look. Meanwhile, it scores a stunning 89 percent reliability rating among real owners, making it the most reliable luxury car you can buy for under $20,000.

2. 2014 Infiniti Q40

Frankly, we forgot that the Infiniti Q40 existed, and we suspect you might have, too. But that can be forgiven; the Q40 was only around for a single model year. A rebrand of the popular G37, the 2014 Infiniti Q40 features the polarizing VQ V6 engine under the hood. What isn’t polarizing though, is the reliability rating of this sleek four-door, tying the Lincoln at 89 percent. However, they still go for nearly $19,000 right now, bumping the Q40 to second on this list.

3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Sitting between the C-Class and S-Class, it can sometimes be easy to overlook the middle child of the Mercedes-Benz sedan lineup. That’s a shame though, as the 2012 version of this vaunted luxury sedan scores impressive reliability ratings at 88% and can be had today for less than $15,000.

4. 2013 Acura ILX

If an Acura is just a cozy Honda, then its appearance on a reliable used cars list can’t be a shock. The 2013 ILX feels a bit anonymous, but its understated design shouldn’t detract from the excellent driving experience. As one of the most reliable luxury cars under $20,000, it should be enjoyable for years to come. This version of the mid-size Acura scored an 87 percent reliability rating and a punchy 201-horsepower engine with a six-speed manual transmission. Yeah, we didn’t realize that either. But pairing the Civic Si engine with a more comfortable cabin and a six-speed stick? Sign us up.

5. 2013 Audi A4

Bucking the stereotype of unreliable German cars is the 2013 Audi A4. In fact, most Audi A4 models score high reliability ratings, but the 2013 version tops the charts at 87 percent. The vaunted EA888 engine is legendary in tuning circles for its ability to handle power, and in the 201-horsepower Audi A4 it isn’t even close to its limits. Pair that with outstanding handling and interior quality, and for less than $15,000 it’s a luxury sedan that should be enjoyable well into the future.

Enjoy the road ahead with these 5 most reliable luxury cars you can get for less than $20,000

With American, Japanese, and German cars all making this U.S. News list, there is plenty of variety to work with when searching for a reliable and affordable luxury car. Just don’t forget to do some homework and find a vehicle with decent service records to take advantage of the cheap, dependable luxury to be had with these five models.