Luxury cars are the ultimate automotive indulgence: high-priced models that take comfort and convenience to extremes. They offer refinement, space and the highest equipment levels from their makers.
True to the definition of “luxury”, these cars are not strictly necessary in any particular respect… but they’re a rewarding experience for those who can afford them.
Having said that, value for money and environmental credentials still count in this segment, and each of our three finalists bring their own balance of status and responsibility. They’re all high-end models from established and recognised luxury brands, yet all also embrace ease-of-use in day-to-day driving and fuel-saving electrification in some form.
MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS
Mercedes-Benz has poured plenty into its standalone EQ range of electric luxury sedans, but we think the all-new E-class still represents an outstanding expression of the marque’s heritage, blended with the very latest in technology.
It’s available in just one model for now: the E 300. There’s a long tradition of luxury Benzes with small-capacity engines and this one is no exception, with a 2.0-litre mild-hybrid four-cylinder. The powertrain can be matched to adaptive Airmatic suspension and rear-axle steering to make the E 300 even more of an executive express.
The E 300 has all of the high-end tech you find in its EV siblings and more: a “Superscreen” that offers digital displays the entre width of the dashboard, intelligent assistance that learns the driver’s habits and automatically adapts in-car functions like climate control, and even surprise-and-delight features like a 4D sound system that literally thumps you in the back.
It’s enough to make you wonder whether you really need that S-Class after all.
PORSCHE CAYENNE
The Cayenne remains a go-to premium SUV thanks to the way it brings long-standing Porsche virtues into the crossover genre: engineering precision, exquisite build quality and a real sense of understated style.
Cayennes can be super-sporty, of course; there are many models that offer extreme performance and incredible handling. But the vast model choice ($173,000-$380,000) also means there are plenty that combine driver-focused character with a cosseting character and excellent refinement – especially the E-Hybrid models, which combine silent around-town running with the ability to travel long distances in an effortless manner.
This year’s update was the most comprehensive facelift ever applied to a Porsche model. It brought even more technology (including a Taycan-style curved digital instrument panel) and improved ride/handling from redeveloped suspension.
RANGE ROVER SPORT
Few makers have been as successful as Land Rover in bringing together the concept of a true 4x4 with the ultimate in luxury; but that’s what its Range Rover brand has epitomised for decades.
The full-size Range Rover (yes, still just called “Range Rover”) continues, but since its launch in 2022 we’ve been deeply impressed by the smaller Range Rover Sport, which now picks up much of its engineering and equipment from the flagship model. It’s a very complete package with an incredible range of models and options; prices run from $170,000 to $380,000.
What’s thrust the Sport into contention two years down the track is our more recent exposure to the plug-in hybrid models, which joined the lineup in 2023. While diesel mild-hybrid and V8 petrols continue, the PHEVs offer the ultimate in refinement and efficiency, with an incredible EV-only range of up to 112km.