Always wanted a car with a fancy badge on the grille for non-luxury money? Here are some options
Lincoln Corsair – $36940
The Corsair replaces the MKC SUV. It received new technology, and a more refined interior to achieve that luxury slot Lincoln is aiming for. The base Corsair is powered by a 250hp 2.0-liter turbo-four with front-wheel drive. You’ll have to spend a lot more for the 280hp 2.3-liter turbo engine and any actual luxury features.
Cadillac XT4 – $36690
This is Cadillac’s newest entry-level model. It has all the necessities needed for a small premium luxury SUV. All-wheel drive is optional, and the standard option has a 237hp 2.0-liter turbo-four powering the front wheels. It’s not very well equipped and the nicer version costs north of 40k.
Genesis G70 – $36445
The Genesis G70 is like a cheap BMW 3-Series. It has rear-wheel drive, an 8-speed auto gearbox, and the option of a 6-speed manual. The automatic also has the option of an all-wheel drive. Its party piece is the 10-year 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
BMW 2-Series – $36295
It’s not the cheapest BMW to buy but definitely one of the most entertaining. The base version is powered by a 248hp 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that powers the rear wheels. There’s also a six-speed manual for the same price. You could also go for the 335hp 3.0-liter inline-six if you want to spend.
BMW X1 – $35945
The X1 is a practical and fun small crossover with a lot of space and engaging driving dynamics powered by a 228hp 2.0-liter turbo-four. It’s one of the best crossovers money can buy.
Audi Q3
The new Q3 is bigger, better, and looks sharper than before. It is powered by a 228hp 2.0-liter turbo-four coupled with the Quattro all-wheel drive. It has the signature Audi octagonal grille, cool-looking LEDs on the outside, and bolder designs and materials on the inside.
Mercedes-Benz GLA
The baby Mercedes-Benz is all about show. That’s why it also offers an optional $450 illuminated logo on the grille. But it’s not up to the Mercedes-mark. The base version is filled with hard plastics that don’t do justice to the brand.