Cheap and luxury don’t always go together, but a compact sedan can strike an appealing balance between high-end features and a reasonable price tag.
Nearly every luxury brand has a model easily found for around $20,000. Here’s a look at 10 of the best used compact luxury cars available for $20,000 or less.
1. 2016 Acura ILX
The ILX is one of the newest sedans on our list, and it benefits from Acura’s legendary reputation for reliability. Its smooth 4-cylinder engines combine with sharp styling to make it a distinctive choice at a reasonable price. See 2016 Acura ILX models for sale
2. 2014 Audi A4
The Audi A4 is a distinctive compact luxury sedan with clean lines and a driver-focused dashboard. Its turbocharged engine can send power to the front or, optionally, all four wheels, making it an excellent choice for drivers in wintry climates. See 2014 Audi A4 models for sale
3. 2014 BMW 328i
BMW offered a bunch of powertrains in its popular 3 Series sedan for 2014, but the most common was the 328i. This model has a punchy turbocharged 4-cylinder and a choice between automatic and manual transmissions. Amazingly, the 3 Series also has a spacious cabin. See 2014 BMW 3 Series models for sale
4. 2015 Cadillac ATS
Cadillac’s smallest sedan was praised when new for its agile handling and sharp styling. The optional turbocharged 4-cylinder was rated at 272 horsepower, a figure that surpassed its direct rivals. See 2015 Cadillac ATS models for sale
5. 2015 Infiniti Q50
The Q50 boasts shapely styling and a high-tech interior. In addition, its strong V6 engine makes it one of the most potent sub-$20,000 late-model luxury sedans. See 2015 Infiniti Q60 models for sale
6. 2017 Jaguar XE
Shop around enough, and you can find higher-mile examples of the smallest Jaguar for $20,000 or less. With styling that’s derivative of its costlier siblings and an impressive rear-wheel-drive (or optional all-wheel-drive) chassis, it’s a great choice for drivers. See 2017 Jaguar XE models for sale
7. 2013 Lexus IS 250
With its smooth V6 engine, refined rear-wheel-drive handling (plus optional all-wheel drive), and sharp styling, it’s no wonder that the Lexus IS has been a popular compact luxury sedan for a generation. See 2013 Lexus IS models for sale
8. 2018 Mazda3
You might not think of Mazda as a luxury brand, but its sleek Mazda3 looks and feels the part, especially in Grand Touring trim. You could have these highly well-equipped models with adaptive cruise control and Bose audio with navigation. See 2018 Mazda3 models for sale
9. 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The smallest Mercedes-Benz sedan offers cachet and timeless classic style. The C 300 model’s V6 engine delivers a hefty 248 hp with rear- or all-wheel drive. Mercedes offered both Luxury and Sport variants, each with its own personality. See 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models for sale
10. 2015 Volvo S60
Volvo offered several S60 flavors for 2015, including a new turbo-4 paired with front-wheel drive. With 240 hp and an 8-speed automatic transmission, this slick powertrain delivers great acceleration — and the S60 comes chock full of safety features. See 2015 Volvo S60 models for sale
