Luxury and performance used to be as far apart as the East is from the West. If you pick comfort, you do so by sacrificing speed, not a powerful engine per se, but a car that can really handle that power around a corner. Or, if you wanted something thrilling, you gave up any sense of refinement. Those days are gone. In 2025, entry-level luxury sedans deliver premium interiors, tech, and ride quality and still drive with sporting intent. Below are some of the most compelling examples under (or around) the mainstream performance threshold — cars that feel more exciting than their badges suggest, and whose chassis dynamics reward the driver as much as their luxury appointments soothe them.
10 Sedans That Are Surprisingly Fun To Drive
These varied sedans prove you don’t need to go for the expensive clichés to still have fun – they offer fun and speed in a more modest package.
2025 Acura Integra
MSRP: $33,000
- Base Trim Engine
-
1.5L I-4 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
2-speed CVT
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Front-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
200 HP @6000 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
192 lb.-ft. @ 1800 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
30/37/33 MPG
- Base Trim Battery Type
-
Lead acid battery
- Make
-
Acura
- Model
-
Integra Sedan
The Acura Integra returns with a familiar nameplate and a fresh formula: crisp handling, turbocharged fizz, and hatchback practicality. The base Integra pairs a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 200 hp with an excellent steering feel and a lively chassis. With its well-sorted suspension and relatively light curb weight, the Integra rides like a proper driver’s car rather than a cushy commuter.
Inside, Acura offers a neat balance of technology and simplicity. Standard driver-assist features, adaptive cruise control, and a competitive infotainment ecosystem make the Integra feel modern without steep price tags. Material quality ranks above most entry-level luxury sedans, making daily driving pleasant whether you’re on the back roads or on the highway.
Where this car shines is the amount of fun it delivers relative to its price. Enthusiasts will appreciate the responsive throttle and steering, while buyers looking for premium features get a livable package that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. It’s arguably one of the best driver’s luxury cars under $40,000.
2025 Cadillac CT4
MSRP: $36,490
- Base Trim Engine
-
2L I4 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
237 HP @5000 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
22/32/26 MPG
- Base Trim Battery Type
-
Lead acid battery
- Make
-
Cadillac
- Model
-
CT4
The Cadillac CT4 is the American contender that manages both luxury and a spirited personality. With choices between turbo four-cylinder powerplants and sharper handling configurations, it strikes a balance few domestic sedans achieve.
Inside, the CT4 prioritizes comfort with supportive seats, Cadillac’s infotainment suite, and available driver-assist technology. Although interior materials aren’t always class-leading, they’re plenty good for the price and contribute to a quietly composed cabin.
The rear-wheel-drive bias and responsive steering make the CT4 feel more athletic than its price tag suggests, especially in twisty conditions. For someone seeking a luxury feel without breaking six figures — and with performance to match — the CT4 checks big boxes.
2025 BMW 228 Gran Coupe
MSRP: $41,600
- Base Trim Engine
-
2.0-liter twin-turbo inline-4
- Base Trim Transmission
-
7-speed dual-clutch Automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Front-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
241 hp
- Base Trim Torque
-
295 lb-ft
- Make
-
BMW
- Model
-
2 Series Gran Coupe
- Segment
-
Subcompact Luxury Sedan
The BMW 228 Gran Coupe slivers into this list as a nearly perfect blend of compact size and spirited driving character. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes lively power, and with BMW’s well-tuned chassis, it feels nimble and eager through corners.
Interior quality punches above its price, with a clean BMW layout, digital interfaces, and supportive, sporty seats. While rear seat room and cargo space are modest compared with larger sedans, that’s part of the fun: it feels compact and driver-oriented.
For drivers who prize handling over outright size, the 228 Gran Coupe gives you BMW’s core dynamics in a smaller, spirited package — and at a price that undercuts many larger rivals.
2025 Lexus IS
MSRP: $41,830
- Base Trim Engine
-
2L I-4 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
241 HP @5200 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
258 lb.-ft. @ 1650 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
21/31/25 MPG
- Base Trim Battery Type
-
Lead acid battery
- Make
-
Lexus
- Model
-
IS
The Lexus IS combines Japanese reliability with killer handling. Its turbocharged engines offer respectable power and smooth delivery of that power, while the suspension tunes provide a blend of comfort and engagement. The IS is one of those platforms that makes it hard to find anything interesting to say because it’s just good.
Inside, Lexus’ expertise in material quality and ergonomic design does its thing. Plush seats, intuitive tech, and a quiet cabin enhance the comfort for daily life. Standard driver-assist systems give peace of mind without feeling intrusive.
Though its chassis is biased toward a more composed and soft ride, the IS still communicates enough feedback to keep drivers entertained. It’s a solid choice for those who want crisp steering and predictable dynamics in a premium package.
2025 Genesis G70
MSRP: $42,850
- Base Trim Engine
-
2.5L I4 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
300 HP @5800 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
311 lb.-ft. @ 1650 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
21/29/24 MPG
- Base Trim Battery Type
-
Lead acid battery
- Make
-
Genesis
- Model
-
G70
Genesis has carved a reputation for offering premium appointments with strong performance, and the G70 exemplifies that ethos. Its turbocharged engines produce punchy power, and the rear-wheel drive setup with balanced weight distribution makes it feel competitive with established German rivals.
The cabin impresses with design, materials, and tech. Touches like plush upholstery, distinct ambient lighting, and a user-friendly infotainment system make the G70 feel like a more expensive car.
On the road, the steering is communicative, and the suspension is poised — composed on imperfect pavement yet eager when roads tighten up. For buyers seeking Euro-like refinement with a distinctive flourish, the G70 delivers exceptional value.
2025 Volvo S60
MSRP: $43,795
- Base Trim Engine
-
2L I4 Hybrid
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Front-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
247 HP @5400 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
258 lb.-ft. @ 1800 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
26/35/30 MPG
- Base Trim Battery Type
-
Lead acid battery
- Make
-
Volvo
- Model
-
S60
Volvo’s S60 blends refined Scandinavian design with confident performance and advanced safety tech. The base mild-hybrid powertrains provide smooth power delivery, while more potent PHEV variants allow strong acceleration with a nod toward efficiency.
The cabin is a highlight: minimalist, premium materials and smart ergonomics make for a serene environment. The large vertically oriented touchscreen is intuitive, and Volvo’s safety suite remains one of the most comprehensive in the segment.
Driving dynamics balance comfort and control. It won’t unsettle your spine like a track car, but it’s confident in corners, and the composed chassis makes it a pleasure on winding roads. For buyers who want a little sportiness married to Scandinavian calm, the S60 fits elegantly.
10 Affordable Luxury Cars That Nail High Performance
Luxury and performance don’t have to come at an exorbitant price. These ten cars offer a luxury experience without breaking the bank.
2025 BMW 3 Series
MSRP: $44,000
- Base Trim Engine
-
2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged mild-hybrid
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed Automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
255 hp
- Base Trim Torque
-
295 lb-ft
- Make
-
BMW
- Model
-
3 Series Sedan
- Segment
-
Compact Luxury Sedan
Arguably the archetype of the sports-luxury sedan, the BMW 3 Series continues its legacy with a balanced chassis, sharp steering, and engines that make eager power at everyday speeds. The base four-cylinder variant offers satisfying acceleration and an adaptive suspension that keeps roll in check without feeling punishing.
The interior marries driver-centric design with modern technology, soft materials, and a spacious cabin for passengers up front. BMW’s infotainment system is responsive and feature-packed, making it easy to stay connected and entertained on commutes or cross-country runs.
Whether equipped with rear-wheel drive or BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive, the 3 Series offers confidence and poise that few cars in this segment can match. As a daily driver that also feels alive on back roads, it’s a benchmark many others chase.
2025 Alfa Romeo Giulia
MSRP: $45,990
- Base Trim Engine
-
2L I4 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
280 HP @5200 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
306 lb.-ft. @ 2000 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
24/33/27 MPG
- Make
-
Alfa Romeo
- Model
-
Giulia
- Segment
-
Compact Luxury Sedan
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is the Italian wildcard — a car that feels like something more expensive than its MSRP. With a sharp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing brisk power and a chassis tuned for agility, the Giulia brings a visceral connection to the road. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with optional all-wheel drive.
Unlike many rivals, the Giulia doesn’t shy away from character. Steering is communicative, the suspension is firm but poised, and acceleration feels purposeful. Inside, while luxury materials are present, the layout emphasizes driver engagement over plush isolation.
Even though Alfa’s tech suite might lag some German rivals, the Giulia’s dynamic feedback and striking looks make it an emotional buy for enthusiasts. It rewards drivers who value engagement and personality in equal measure. But all that Italian flair will come with some reliability sacrifices compared to most others on this list. Hey, that’s just the price you pay if you want to hang with the Italians.
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250
MSRP: $45,550
- Base Trim Engine
-
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Front-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
221 hp
- Base Trim Torque
-
258 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy
-
26/36 MPG
- Make
-
Mercedes-Benz
- Model
-
CLA-Class
- Segment
-
Subcompact Luxury Sedan
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 wraps premium style in a sleek, sporty silhouette. Its turbo four-cylinder powertrain delivers adequate acceleration with a smooth delivery, while the chassis balances comfort and agility nicely.
Inside, the CLA’s cabin feels more upscale than you’d expect at this price point. Mercedes’ dual-screen MBUX layout is intuitive and elegant, blending digital sophistication with physical controls for everyday use.
Handling is poised, not hardcore, but the CLA’s steering and suspension deliver confidence pushing through bends. It’s a luxury car that feels alive without sacrificing daily usability.
10 Best Luxury Sedans To Keep On Your Shortlist
These 10 luxury sedans blend performance, comfort, and cutting-edge tech, making them top contenders for your shortlist.
2025 Audi S3
2025 MSRP: $48,700
- Base Trim Engine
-
2.0 Turbocharged four-cylinder Gas
- Base Trim Transmission
-
7-speed dual-clutch Automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
All-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
328 hp
- Base Trim Torque
-
295 lb-ft
- Make
-
Audi
- Model
-
S3 Sedan
- Segment
-
Full-Size Luxury Sedan
The Audi S3 takes the already polished A3 platform and injects extra performance. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder cranks out over 300 horsepower, routed through all-wheel drive for confident cornering and strong acceleration. Despite Audi’s strategy shift toward a consolidated model lineup for 2026, the 2025 S3 remains a compelling performance sedan.
On twisty roads and highways alike, the S3’s Quattro system keeps traction steady, making it feel quicker and more composed than its numbers suggest. The interior is quintessential Audi, minimalist, upscale, and packed with digital displays and ergonomic controls that speak to the brand’s design philosophy.
For buyers wanting European flair and handling that feels tight, the S3 offers a convincing blend of luxe interior cues, technology, and real performance. It’s sporty enough to make unpaid weekends feel purposeful, yet refined enough for daily commuting.