Owning a luxury car comes with cachet, and for good reason. High-end models can offer unmatched performance, cutting-edge technology and a level of craftsmanship that turns driving from something to be endured to a pleasurable experience. However, not all of them are made equally or worth your money, especially in this fuel economy.
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Alex Black, seasoned automotive specialist and chief marketing officer of EpicVIN, said that if buyers aren’t careful, the costs of owning a luxury vehicle can exceed the MSRP, thanks to maintenance and repairs. These little financial shocks down the road can greatly outweigh the comfort performance of your car purchase.
“Luxury cars might be something to boast about, but few are worth their price,” he said. Below are the luxury models he said are best avoided.
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Maserati Ghibli
MSRP: $110,995 to $166,495
The Italian-made Maserati sports sedan is a sight to behold thanks to design details like boomerang-shaped headlights, LED adaptive matrix headlights and the signature trident embedded on the front grille. But Black warned that beneath its elegant exterior lies a car plagued with reliability issues.
“The parts cost an arm and a leg, and maintenance accumulates rapidly,” he explained, likening the model to a “dressed-up version of a Chrysler,” albeit with a luxury price tag.
Land Rover Range Rover
MSRP: $112,250 to $240,850
The Range Rover is the original luxury SUV, and while the U.K.-made car is renowned for its impressive handling, even off-road, older models come with significant drawbacks, according to Black. He noted that as it ages, the model is prone to electric malfunctions, suspension failures and oil leaks.
“Range Rovers are wonderful to drive in their prime, but their maintenance in the long term will strip your pocketbook,” he said.
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BMW 7 Series
MSRP: $98,475 to $123,575
With innovations like LED door projectors, an interaction bar with touchscreen controls, a cutting-edge operating system and a 31-inch theater screen with 8K resolution for rear passengers, the BMW 7 Series impresses with high-tech features and elevated comfort. That said, all those innovations can come at a price.
“Electronics fail, suspension deteriorates and even small jobs cost an arm and a leg,” Black said. “Post-warranty, the cost of owning a BMW 7 Series will escalate.”
Cadillac Escalade
MSRP: $93,695 to $170,595
The Cadillac Escalade carries an elite badge, but Black said it doesn’t justify its price.
“It’s a Chevy Tahoe with a fancy badge, and you’re paying way more for the same platform,” he explained. Furthermore, the Escalade’s reliability record isn’t stellar, making it a costly and underwhelming choice.
Jaguar XF
MSRP: $51,075 to $54,775
With its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, power-adjustable steering column and digital gauge cluster, the Jaguar XF is a pleasure to drive. However, its appeal is overshadowed by persistent maintenance troubles, according to Black, which makes it a risky investment for those looking for a trouble-free luxury experience.
“The transmission, electric system and expensive repairs contribute to a bad buy in the long run,” Black said.
Mercedes S-Class
MSRP: $118,900 to $129,750
The Mercedes S-Class has some excellent touches, like an OLED touchscreen that can personalize up to 800 settings — ensuring the car is customized to each driver’s taste. When it comes to earlier models, however, the upkeep can inflate the price tag.
“Old S-Class models get really expensive with maintenance,” Black explained, noting that as they age, S-Class cars can be prone to air suspension failures. Plus, the complex electronics can make for some costly repairs in the long term.
Audi A8
MSRP: $93,295
The Audi A8 — a spacious luxury sedan whose all-wheel drive chassis makes it a dream to handle on even winding roads — is a comfortable and stylish drive. But according to Black, its lack of reliability can make long-term ownership financially draining.
Porsche Cayenne
MSRP: $80,850 to $197,950
The Porsche Cayenne is a thrilling luxury SUV, but according to Black, early models suffer from reliability problems.
“Even though it offers a wonderful driving experience, the early models of the Cayenne face engine issues, heavy maintenance bills and expensive spares,” he said, meaning costs can quickly add up long after the initial purchase.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
MSRP: $81,855 to $89,025
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is a handsome and high-performing car, with a twin-turbo V-6 engine that makes for an exhilarating drive. But no matter how fun it is to pilot, the Giulia Quadrifoglio has a warranted reputation for being unreliable.
“Its stunning looks and thrilling drive are spoiled by computer errors and costly repairs,” Black said.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Car Expert: 9 Luxury Cars That Aren’t Worth the Money
