Best Entry-Level Luxury Cars: Top Choices for 2024

When it comes to entering the world of luxury vehicles, finding the right car that balances elegance, performance, and affordability can be challenging. For 2024, several models stand out as the best entry-level luxury cars, offering a blend of style, comfort, and advanced features at a more accessible price point. This comprehensive guide will explore the top contenders, breaking down what makes each vehicle a strong choice for those looking to step into the luxury segment without breaking the bank.

1. Audi A3

The Audi A3 remains a top choice for an entry-level luxury vehicle due to its refined design, upscale interior, and impressive technology. With a starting price of around $35,000, the A3 provides an entry into the luxury market with the following highlights:

• Powertrain: The A3 comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower, which delivers a balanced mix of power and efficiency. An optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 306 horsepower is also available, enhancing performance for those seeking a sportier drive.
• Interior: The interior of the A3 is crafted with high-quality materials, featuring standard leather upholstery and a modern, minimalist design. The cabin includes a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
• Technology and Safety: Advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control are standard, making the A3 a well-rounded choice for tech-savvy buyers.

2. BMW 2 Series

The BMW 2 Series offers a sporty driving experience wrapped in a compact luxury package. With a starting price around $37,000, this model is perfect for those who prioritize performance and agility:

• Powertrain: The base 230i model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 248 horsepower, providing quick acceleration and dynamic handling. For enthusiasts, the M240i variant comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that churns out 382 horsepower.
• Interior: The 2 Series sports a driver-focused interior with supportive seats and premium materials. The standard 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes BMW’s iDrive interface, which is intuitive and responsive.
• Technology and Safety: Standard features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include active cruise control and a more advanced parking assistant.

3. Mercedes-Benz A-Class

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class offers a luxurious entry point into the brand, with a starting price of about $35,000. It combines elegance with cutting-edge technology and comfort:

• Powertrain: The A-Class is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower. The engine is paired with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration.
• Interior: The A-Class boasts a high-end interior with a sleek design, featuring dual 7-inch or optional 10.25-inch digital displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Standard features include MB-Tex upholstery and a panoramic sunroof.
• Technology and Safety: The A-Class comes with a suite of driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. The MBUX infotainment system is highly regarded for its voice recognition capabilities.

4. Lexus UX

The Lexus UX stands out for its combination of luxury and practicality, with a starting price around $34,000. It offers a compact crossover design with a focus on comfort and efficiency:

• Powertrain: The UX is available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower, or as a hybrid variant with a combined output of 181 horsepower. The hybrid model is particularly notable for its excellent fuel economy.
• Interior: The UX features a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and a user-friendly design. The standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a larger 10.3-inch display is optional.
• Technology and Safety: The UX includes standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Lexus' reputation for reliability adds to the vehicle's appeal.

5. Genesis G70

The Genesis G70 provides a compelling mix of luxury and performance, with a starting price of approximately $38,000. It offers a premium experience at a competitive price:

• Powertrain: The G70 comes with a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower. Both engines deliver strong performance and a refined driving experience.
• Interior: The G70 features a high-quality interior with leather upholstery and a well-designed cockpit. The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Technology and Safety: The G70 includes a range of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. The vehicle also offers a suite of advanced driver assistance features as optional upgrades.

Comparison Table

Model	Starting Price	Powertrain Options	Key Interior Features	Standard Technology Features	Safety Features
Audi A3	$35,000	2.0L turbo I4 (201 hp), 2.0L turbo I4 (306 hp)	Leather upholstery, 10.1" touchscreen	Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, emergency braking	Lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control
BMW 2 Series	$37,000	2.0L turbo I4 (248 hp), 3.0L turbo I6 (382 hp)	Driver-focused, 8.8" touchscreen	iDrive interface, rearview camera, cruise control	Forward collision warning, emergency braking
Mercedes-Benz A-Class	$35,000	2.0L turbo I4 (188 hp)	Dual 7" or 10.25" displays, MB-Tex upholstery	Voice-activated MBUX, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto	Blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking
Lexus UX	$34,000	2.0L I4 (169 hp), Hybrid (181 hp)	High-quality materials, 7" or 10.3" display	Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, touchscreen	Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning
Genesis G70	$38,000	2.0L turbo I4 (252 hp), 3.3L turbo V6 (365 hp)	Leather upholstery, 8" touchscreen	Navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto	Blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking

Conclusion

Choosing the best entry-level luxury car depends on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you value performance, technology, or overall luxury, each of these models offers a unique blend of features and benefits. The Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class excel in technology and interior quality, while the BMW 2 Series and Genesis G70 stand out for their sporty performance. The Lexus UX, with its hybrid option, caters to those seeking both luxury and efficiency.

As you consider which model best fits your needs, test-driving each vehicle and exploring the available options will help ensure you make an informed decision. The entry-level luxury car market continues to evolve, offering buyers exceptional value and a gateway into the world of premium automotive experiences.