In a market dominated by SUVs and crossovers, luxury sedans remain a beacon for those seeking a blend of comfort and exhilarating performance without the premium new-car price tag. As luxury sedans are among the most rapidly depreciating vehicles, savvy buyers can find significant value in the used market. According to iSeeCars, most luxury sedans retain only about 52% of their original value after five years, making brands like Audi and Mercedes particularly affordable.
For enthusiasts on a budget, here’s a guide to the 10 fastest luxury sedans under $20,000 in 2024, all boasting 0-60 mph times of under 5.0 seconds. Our selection, based on data from sources like J.D. Power and Edmunds, offers both top-notch performance and luxury.
2013 Audi A8 4.0T
- Audi
- Price: $13,525
The 2013 Audi A8 4.0T stands out for its superior performance and refined interior, priced around $13,525 for used models. Powered by a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine, it delivers 420 horsepower and 444 lb-ft of torque.
This setup enables the sedan to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 mph. All-wheel drive enhances its handling capabilities, ensuring a stable and responsive ride.
Inside, passengers are treated to a luxurious experience featuring multi-level heated seats, alloy, leather, and wood trim, and a high-quality Bose stereo system.
2013 Jaguar XJL Supersport
- Mecum Auctions
- Price: $15,438
The 2013 Jaguar XJL Supersport blends ultra-luxury with potent performance, priced at approximately $15,538 on the used market.
It features a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces 510 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enables the sedan to achieve a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
The vehicle’s rear-wheel drive layout enhances its dynamic capabilities. Inside, the XJL Supersport offers an opulent interior with multi-level heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, a glass moonroof, and Meridian premium speakers, set amidst alloy, leather, chrome, and wood trim. The cabin also features ambient lighting.
2013 Audi S7
- By Autoviva – Audi S7Uploaded by tm, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24681666
- Price: $15,525
The 2013 Audi S7, available for around $15,525 used, is recognized for its performance and stylish design. This sedan is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 420 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 155 mph.
The all-wheel drive system ensures reliable handling under various conditions. The S7’s interior is luxuriously appointed with premium leather, multi-level heated seats, and a Bose audio system.
It also features a cylinder deactivation technology that helps achieve a fuel efficiency of 20 mpg combined, making it both fast and fuel-efficient. A pop-up screen on the dash operates Audi’s MMI system, controlling vehicle, navigation, and entertainment functions.
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG
- By Michael Gil from Calgary, AB, Canada – Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Coupe – CIAS 2012, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37164896
- Price: $18,500
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG, priced around $18,500 used, exemplifies luxury with a sporty edge. It is equipped with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering between 518 and 550 horsepower, depending on the configuration, and offers 516 to 590 lb-ft of torque.
This power allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The CLS 63 AMG is designed with a distinctive “four-door coupe” style, featuring a sleek, sloping roofline.
Inside, the cabin is outfitted with sport front seats, a Harman/Kardon stereo system, and high-quality alloy, leather, and wood trim.
2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 63 AMG Sedan
- Price: $19,900
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 63 AMG Sedan, available for about $19,900 on the used market, stands as a pinnacle of automotive luxury and performance.
It is powered by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces between 536 and 563 horsepower, with torque ranging from 590 to 664 lb-ft. The sedan can surge from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 186 mph.
Luxury features include multi-level heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, coupled with a high-fidelity Harman/Kardon sound system and exquisite interior trim of alloy, leather, and wood.
2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG Sedan
- By nakhon100 – Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG W212, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37759950
- Price: $18,225
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG Sedan, with a typical used price of $18,225, offers high-end performance with a touch of class.
It is equipped with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces between 518 and 550 horsepower and 516 to 590 lb-ft of torque, depending on the optional AMG Performance package. This enables the sedan to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The rear-wheel drive layout contributes to its dynamic driving experience.
Inside, the E63 AMG features multi-level heated and ventilated seats, a Harman/Kardon sound system, and luxurious leather and wood trim.
2013 Tesla Model S Performance
- Tesla
- Price: $17,675
Priced around $17,675 on the used market, the 2013 Tesla Model S Performance is a standout for its rapid acceleration and cutting-edge technology. It is propelled by an electric motor generating 416 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.2 seconds.
Unlike conventional sedans, the Model S features a minimalistic interior dominated by a 17-inch vertical touchscreen that controls nearly all vehicle functions. This model also offers ample luggage space and comfortable multi-level heated seats clad in leather.
2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo
- By Spanish Coches – 2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38114075
- Price: $16,750
The 2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo, with a used price around $16,750, exemplifies luxury performance with practicality. Powered by a 4.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, it generates 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, achieving a rapid 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 4.0 seconds.
The all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and handling. Inside, the Panamera Turbo offers cosseting luxury with bucket front seats, multi-level heated seating, and a high-quality Bose stereo system.
The interior design, reminiscent of the iconic 911, combines leather, wood, and simulated alloy trim. T
2013 Audi S8
- By Loadbeta – Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=31551964
- Price: $18,700
The 2013 Audi S8, listed for about $18,700 used, merges supreme luxury with exceptional speed. It is equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 520 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, surpassing even Audi’s R8 sports car in acceleration. The all-wheel drive layout enhances its agility and responsiveness.
The interior of the S8 features multi-level heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, along with a premium Bose sound system and high-end finishes in carbon, alloy, and leather.
2010 Cadillac CTS-V
- By Mic from Reading – Berkshire, United Kingdom – Mondial de l’Automobile 2010, Paris – France, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38716090
- Price: $18,675
The 2010 Cadillac CTS-V, available for around $18,675 used, is a high-performance sedan that incorporates a muscle car ethos with luxury touches. It is powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine derived from the Corvette ZR1, producing an impressive 556 horsepower and 551 lb-ft of torque.
This robust powertrain enables the CTS-V to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 191 mph. The rear-wheel drive configuration enhances its sporty driving dynamics.
The interior offers leather/suede microfiber upholstery, multi-level heated bucket seats, Bose speakers, and simulated carbon fiber trim, providing a comfortable and stylish environment.
Josh Clark
