It seems we’re all feeling a little lighter in the wallets these days — even luxury-car buyers. But opting for a car or truck with a smaller price tag doesn’t mean settling for less.
Give up a prestigious nameplate, along with an option or two, and you’ll get a similar automobile without looking like a spendthrift:
Lexus ES350 ($33,820) vs. Toyota Camry XLE V-6 ($28,270)
Because they share mechanical components, these cars feel similar. But the ES350 has several luxury options, such as radar cruise control, that are unavailable on the Camry.
Mercedes-Benz SLK ($44,150-$63,200) vs. Chrysler Crossfire ($34,735-$39,130)
The German-built Crossfire is a restyled version of the previous-generation SLK. Coupe or convertible, it boasts a Mercedes drivetrain and interior pieces.
Cadillac DTS ($42,620-$50,120) vs. Buick Lucerne V-8 ($33,085-$38,630)
Opt for the V-8 Lucerne and get a DTS at a Buick price. Performance is identical, as are the major options, but the Buick’s cabin is slightly less sumptuous.
Cadillac Escalade ($55,990-$81,595) vs. Chevrolet Tahoe ($34,630-$52,395)
Buying a Chevy over the king of bling seems unthinkable, but the Caddy uses the Chevy’s 6.2-liter V-8. Tahoe is all Chevy inside but offers many of the Caddy’s options.
Acura RL ($46,280-$53,700) vs. Honda Accord EX, EX-L V-6 ($25,960-$30,260)
While the RL comes with all-wheel-drive and Accord is a front-driver, the larger Honda still feels decadent thanks to voice-activated air conditioning, a sunshade and the navigation system.
Lincoln Navigator ($48,745-$54,645) vs. Ford Expedition ($31,345-$46,240)
Like the Escalade and Tahoe, Navigator is a dressier Expedition. Some features, such as the V-8, aren’t available on the Ford; most are.
More Top Picks Tablets
Audi A6 ($42,9500-$72,350) vs. Volkswagen Passat ($36,050-$38,000)
You’ll get similar space, build quality and FWD or AWD. A6 offers a V-8, which is unavailable on the Passat, but its V-6 has more power.
Lexus RX350 ($40,195-$47,995) vs. Hyundai Veracruz ($26,900-$35,750)
OK, they aren’t corporate cousins but Veracruz looks and feels so Lexus-like, Hyundai should fork over royalties. Veracruz has Lexus’ seamless, isolated feel and bland, yet modern, styling.