Historically, the US has dominated the industry in terms of automotive technology, design, and innovation. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a benchmark for luxury vehicles, being the first in its class to showcase several groundbreaking features, including soft-closing doors, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera, among many others.
BMW dominates the technology sector, while excelling on the mechanical and engineering fronts. Having introduced the first-ever inline six-cylinder engine, a powertrain that remains synonymous with the company. The BMW i8 boasted the groundbreaking feature of laser headlights, and it was the first vehicle ever to achieve an ideal 50/50 weight distribution back in 1966.
According to the saying, imitation is the highest form of flattery. As time goes on, making technology becomes less expensive. As a result, many cars now have features that were once considered exclusive to high-end models from brands like BMW and Mercedes. Here are just a few examples.
The 2025 Subaru Outback Touring XT is a new model.
MSRP: $44,190
The Touring XT delivers on the “bang for your buck” phrase. The Outback is offered with two engine options, and we highly recommend the more capable and powerful turbocharged version over the naturally aspirated one.
Performance Specifications
For $44,000, you get an extremely generous amount of features. Included are Nappa leather-trimmed seats, heated steering and first and second row seats. As well as a premium Harman Kardon sound system and a driver assist package that inspires confidence behind the wheel.
The 2025 Kia Telluride SX Prestige
MSRP: $52,485
It’s a great choice for a mid-size, three-row family SUV. While the Kia Telluride’s trim levels can be a bit confusing, reaching the “Prestige” trim represents the highest level. The other two trim options have distinct appearance packages and upgraded off-road capabilities.
Performance Specifications
It’s remarkable that the Telluride doesn’t fall under the luxury car category. What’s just as astonishing is that you can get premium features typically reserved for luxury vehicles for less than $60,000. Some notable features stand out, such as a voice amplifier that lets drivers communicate with backseat passengers without physically turning around. As expected, the Telluride also boasts typical luxury features, including heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, as well as adaptive cruise control.
2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy
MSRP: $52,015
The current model of the Palisade has already been marketed as a high-end vehicle, and you can say the same thing about its latest generation. Starting at $36,800, the price is strikingly affordable for a car of this caliber. Even the SE trim boasts an automatic climate control system and a 12.3-inch infotainment display.
Performance Specifications
The Calligraphy is an extraordinary example of high-end vehicle that’s achieved at a surprisingly affordable price of $50,000. It impresses with its advanced features, such as smart remote parking assist, which allows the vehicle to autonomously navigate out of a tight parking space on its own. Additionally, the power liftgate is equipped with a sophisticated sensor that detects when you’re approaching, allowing it to open automatically, eliminating the need for manual kicking.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line
MSRP: $54,630
The premium R-Line model offers several desirable features. Its climate control system, known as Climatronic tri-zone automatic, utilizes biometric data to monitor and adjust the cabin’s temperature to match your body’s comfort needs. The R-Line also boasts a 360-degree camera with a distinctive, premium design, reminiscent of one from Audi.
Performance Specifications
In addition to what’s already mentioned, it also comes with perforated Vienna leather and ventilated front seats. The Atlas’s top-of-the-line interior exudes a sophisticated and refined “quiet luxury” atmosphere. You wouldn’t guess it’s a near-luxury vehicle without knowing its advanced features.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum Model
MSRP: $55,495
This UK-sized dishwasher by-product is big – and it gets bigger. Not just in size compared to the standard model, but in its style and additional features.
Performance Specifications
The Platinum model stands out for its standard features, which include ambient interior lighting and heated second-row outboard seats. Toyota’s safety features are also noteworthy, particularly its Safety Sense system, which offers a semi-autonomous driving mode for heavy traffic conditions, known as traffic jam assist.
2025 Ford Explorer ST
MSRP: $55,855
The Explorer is going all out. With luxurious features like massage chairs for front passengers already on board, they’re adding even more exciting features that are sure to impress.
Performance Specifications
For 2025, optional is the BlueCruise package, which enables hands-free driving on highways. Additionally, a BMW, or Tesla-like entertainment system becomes available for the 2025 model, allowing you to browse the internet and engage in gaming while the vehicle is stationary.
2025 Mazda CX-90 S Premium Plus
MSRP: $57,905
The CX-90 has a reasonable starting price and has a premium look.
Performance Specifications
From an interior perspective, this top-of-the-line model offers two trim and upholstery options with exceptional complements. From a technological standpoint, it boasts a Bose premium sound system and a 360-degree camera. Our preferred choice is the quilted tan Nappa leather upholstery, which has a suede-like texture to the dashboard, creating a truly luxurious atmosphere.
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve is a high-end edition of the iconic Grand Cherokee model.
MSRP: $64,835
This particular trim level excels as both a budget-friendly SUV and a luxurious vehicle that can compete with top brands like Mercedes-Benz in terms of price.
Performance Specifications
Technically speaking, as a luxury car, the Summit Reserve boasts top-notch capabilities. It has a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds and features one of the most advanced 4×4 drivetrain systems on the market. The Summit Reserve is also equipped with multiple screens, including one for the front passenger that can transmit navigation data directly to the driver, and an optional night vision camera that can display on the gauge cluster.
The 2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve is a luxury vehicle.
MSRP: $79,000
The forthcoming Armada will see a significant redesign and an upgrade in its powertrain, where the traditional V-8 engine will be replaced by a powerful twin-turbocharged V-6 that ultimately produces more power than the previous version.
Performance Specifications
Nissan’s most recent ProPilot Assist 2.1, their latest implementation of autonomous driving for highway conditions.
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe High Country
MSRP: $80,195
Introducing a refreshed version, boasting more capabilities than ever before. A highlight for 2025 is the spacious 17.7-inch display, the largest available, mirroring the interior design elements of all Chevrolet models. The High Country model comes with premium features not found in the base LS trim.
Performance Specifications
The leather and trim in this Tahoe are noticeably softer and more upscale. Plus, when it comes to technology, the Super Cruise system lets you use it even while towing, which is a useful feature. You’ll also enjoy the front seats with massaging capabilities – that’s a unique touch.
