Luxury cars come in a variety of flavors, from pure sport sedans to luxo limos that do everything but shone your shoes. In order to help buyers navigate the overcrowded waters of this category, we've divided luxury cars into three segments.
The most affordable of all luxury vehicles are near-luxury cars, which are smaller and, in many cases, sportier than their pricier cohorts. Among the most popular vehicles in this segment are the BMW 330i, Mercedes-Benz C230, and Lexus ES 300. Near-luxury cars are ideal for buyers just entering the luxury car market for the first time, or for established luxury car fans who demand a high level of comfort but who do not need a lot of space.
Mid-luxury cars are those priced, and sized, just above near-luxury cars. They strike a popular balance between comfort and reason, bestowing high levels of luxury equipment and space while remaining on the politically correct side of extravagant. Popular vehicles in this segment include the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Lexus GS 300.
Ultra-luxury cars are the loaded-to-the-gills flagships that make our mouth water when they glide by with unspeakable grace and dignity. They boast the most advanced technology, safety and luxury features of any class of car on the road. They are, quite simply, the best automobiles money can buy. The recently redesigned BMW 745i, the Mercedes-Benz S500 and the Lexus LS 430 all reside in the upper echelon of luxury automobiles.