Luxury used to only really mean excess. It meant big engines, bigger gas bills, and an even bigger hit to your wallet. It spawned more interest in affordable luxury cars with good gas mileage…on some level.
(Enter the future.)
Now, you can drive something that turns heads, pampers you inside, and still lets you pass gas stations like you’re allergic to them.
Let’s break down five affordable luxury cars that give you the best of both worlds—style and smarts.
1. 2019–2022 Lexus ES 300h – Understated, Underrated
Used Price Range: ~$25,000–$35,000
MPG: 44 combined
The ES 300h is like that quiet person at a party who ends up being the most interesting one in the room.
Smooth. Elegant. Confident.
Even a few years old, this hybrid sedan feels like new—thanks to Lexus’ legendary build quality. You get the plush ride, the calming cabin, and over 40 miles per gallon. All that, and the look of a car that costs way more than you paid.
For anyone looking to drive smart without driving something boring, this is the move.
2. 2020–2023 Lexus UX 250h – Chic and Efficient
Used Price Range: ~$25,000–$33,000
MPG: 42 combined
The UX 250h is made for city life, but it’s far from basic.
It’s compact, agile, and sharp-looking—perfect for daily commutes or weekend escapes. The hybrid engine keeps fuel stops rare, and the interior has that Lexus polish that’s undeniably pure love.
You won’t get a ton of trunk space, but you will get personality, precision, and MPG that puts most SUVs to shame.
Great for first-time luxury buyers or anyone downsizing in style.
3. 2018–2021 Lexus NX 300h – Your Everyday Escape
Used Price Range: ~$28,000–$38,000
MPG: 31 combined
Looking for something a little roomier?
The NX 300h is your perfect middle ground. It’s an SUV, but not a tank.
It’s luxurious, but still sensible. And with its hybrid engine, it stays surprisingly efficient—especially for its size.
Inside, it feels like a cozy living room with touchscreen controls, comfortable seats, and premium details.
Outside, it’s aggressive enough to make a statement without screaming for attention.
If you want luxury you can use every day, this one’s worth hunting down.
4. 2019–2022 Acura ILX – Small But Mighty
Used Price Range: ~$20,000–$28,000
MPG: 34 combined
The Acura ILX is a sleeper hit.
It flies under the radar, but those in the know? They know.
It’s lightweight, it’s quick, and it gets north of 30 MPG without even trying. Plus, the styling still holds up years later—with sharp lines and a surprisingly upscale cabin.
You might not get all the bells and whistles of its bigger siblings, but for a small luxury sedan that nails the basics (and barely sips fuel), the ILX punches way above its price tag.
5. 2017–2020 Audi A3 – The Clever Classic
Used Price Range: ~$18,000–$27,000
MPG: 29–36 combined (depending on engine)
There’s something timeless about the Audi A3. It’s minimal, smart, and always feels one step ahead.
Even a 5- or 6-year-old model still feels fresh—especially if you land one with the peppy 2.0L turbo engine.
You’ll find clean lines inside and out, and that signature Audi handling that makes even boring drives feel sharp.
And the fuel economy? Way better than you’d expect from a European luxury car.
Pick one up with low miles, and you’re in for years of refined, efficient driving.
FAQs
Which used luxury hybrid offers the best gas mileage under $40,000?
The Lexus ES 300h stands out with an impressive 44 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient luxury hybrids you can comfortably find for around $25K–$35K.
Are compact luxury hybrids like the UX 250h or A3 worth considering for city driving?
Absolutely. The Lexus UX 250h hits around 42 mpg combined, perfect for urban life, while the Audi A3 delivers between 29–36 mpg depending on the engine—offering that premium feel with efficient performance.
Do performance-oriented luxury models compromise on fuel efficiency?
Not always. Even sporty models like the BMW 4‑Series and Audi A5 can achieve around 27–28 mpg combined, making them practical yet engaging daily drivers.
Affordable Luxury Cars with Good Gas Mileage: The Bottom Line
Buying luxury doesn’t mean throwing your budget out the window. And driving efficiently doesn’t mean giving up comfort or style.
At Premiere Motorsports, we specialize in vehicles that blend value and luxury. Whether you’re upgrading your daily driver or shopping for your first luxury car, come visit us—or check out our inventory of affordable luxury cars with good gas mileage online.
Drive away in something that’s smart, stylish, and completely you.
