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Unveiling 2025’s Elite: The Most Underrated Luxury Cars & SUVs You Need to Drive
Having spent a decade immersed in the ever-evolving landscape of premium automobiles, I’ve seen firsthand how brand prestige often overshadows true substance. In 2025, as the market pulses with innovation and choice, a new wave of genuinely exceptional vehicles continues to fly under the radar of the mainstream luxury buyer. These aren’t just competent cars; they are meticulously engineered machines offering unparalleled value, distinctive experiences, and often, surprising performance or opulent comfort that far exceed their perceived status.
For the astute consumer, navigating the luxury segment means looking beyond the badges. It means understanding that true luxury isn’t always about the highest price tag or the most aggressive marketing campaign. It’s about the driving dynamics, the quality of materials, the whisper-quiet cabin, the advanced technology, and ultimately, the feeling you get when you’re behind the wheel. This year, I’ve curated a list of vehicles that, in my expert opinion, deliver on these promises in spades, yet consistently remain “underrated.” If you’re looking to make an intelligent luxury acquisition that stands out from the crowd and offers exceptional return on your investment, pay close attention.
2025 Cadillac CT4: The Agile American Underdog
Let’s kick things off with an American gem that, for those who truly appreciate driving, offers a compelling narrative: the 2025 Cadillac CT4. While its track-focused siblings, the CT4-V and the revered CT4-V Blackwing, often steal the headlines with their raw, unadulterated performance, the standard CT4, especially in its Premium Luxury trim with the optional 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, is a compact premium sedan that deserves far more attention.
In my years of dissecting performance vehicles, few entry-level luxury sedans offer such an enticing blend of power and poise for the price. With 310 horsepower and a robust 350 pound-feet of torque from that responsive 2.7-liter mill, the CT4 sprints from 0-60 mph in a swift 4.8 seconds. This isn’t just “good enough” performance; it’s genuinely engaging, providing a visceral thrill often reserved for cars costing tens of thousands more. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder still delivers a respectable 237 horsepower, achieving an efficient 26 MPG combined, making it a viable daily driver that won’t punish your wallet at the pump.
Now, it’s true that some critiques have been leveled at its interior quality, particularly when directly compared to the clinical precision of a BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe or the avant-garde flair of a Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class. However, I’d argue that this perspective often misses the point. The CT4’s cabin, while perhaps not universally lauded for its intricate detailing, is functional, well-appointed with quality materials where it counts, and driver-focused. It’s a cockpit designed for enthusiasts, prioritizing a direct connection to the road rather than an overwhelming array of screens. For those who prioritize an athletic chassis, crisp steering, and genuinely rewarding driving dynamics over incremental gains in interior plushness, the CT4 offers a distinctively American take on the compact luxury sport sedan. It’s a genuine driver’s car that consistently punches above its weight.
2025 Mazda CX-90: Redefining Mainstream Luxury SUVs
Mazda has been on a relentless upward trajectory, blurring the lines between mainstream and premium, and the 2025 Mazda CX-90 is perhaps their most compelling argument yet. This mid-sized, three-row SUV is, without a doubt, one of the most refined and underrated options for families and individuals who demand space and practicality without sacrificing an ounce of upscale appeal.
From the moment you approach the CX-90, its confident stance and sophisticated lines hint at something more expensive. Step inside, and the interior truly confirms it. This isn’t just a nicely trimmed cabin; it’s a meticulously crafted space that rivals many vehicles bearing luxury badges. Premium materials are thoughtfully integrated, and the design aesthetic is minimalist yet elegant. What truly elevates the CX-90, however, is its powertrain. The strong inline-six engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in its base guise, provides smooth, confident acceleration that feels far more substantial than its specifications suggest. This is a powertrain that embodies modern luxury: powerful, efficient, and exceptionally refined.
On the road, the CX-90’s driving dynamics are nothing short of surprising for a three-row SUV. Mazda’s engineers have worked wonders, giving it an agility that belies its size. The accurate and fluid steering, buttoned-down responses, and sophisticated body control make this SUV feel much smaller and more composed the faster you go. It’s an engaging experience, a stark contrast to the often numb and disconnected feel of other large family haulers. Standard leatherette-trimmed seats and Mazda’s comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite underscore its value proposition. For those considering entry-level luxury SUVs from brands like Acura or even some European marques, the CX-90 offers a highly compelling, beautifully engineered alternative that prioritizes driving pleasure and premium comfort. And yes, for those needing maximum utility, it comfortably seats up to eight, making it a stellar family luxury SUV. The closely related CX-70, while losing the third row, reaffirms Mazda’s commitment to this premium platform.
2025 Toyota Crown: The Stealth Luxury Sedan
“A Toyota on a luxury list?” you might ask. In 2025, absolutely. The Toyota Crown, which marked its return for the 2023 model year, has evolved into a truly unique and unequivocally underrated luxury vehicle. Toyota has always infused its models with features focused on refinement, but the Crown takes this to an entirely new level, operating as a stealth luxury sedan that expertly blends mainstream accessibility with undeniable premium attributes.
The Crown’s “jacked-up sedan” silhouette is distinctive, polarizing some, but for those with an open mind, it presents a fresh take on the traditional sedan. Where the Crown truly shines is in its interior and overall driving experience. Independent reviews consistently highlight a “Lexus-like” quality in its design and materials. This isn’t hyperbole; the cabin exudes a quiet sophistication, with high-quality soft-touch surfaces, excellent fit-and-finish, and an intuitive layout. This meticulous attention to detail is precisely what makes it fly under the radar of traditional luxury buyers who might dismiss a Toyota badge.
Under the hood, the standard hybrid powertrain delivers a respectable 236 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in a brisk seven seconds. However, the true showstopper is the top-of-the-range Platinum trim, featuring the Hybrid Max powertrain. This setup unleashes a formidable 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, slashing the 0-60 mph time to an impressive five seconds. Crucially, this Hybrid Max variant swaps the CVT for a standard automatic gearbox, further enhancing the driving experience. All Crown models benefit from standard all-wheel drive, providing confidence in varying conditions. For those seeking Lexus-level refinement, outstanding fuel economy (in the standard hybrid), and genuinely potent performance (in the Hybrid Max), all wrapped in a distinctive package that avoids ostentatious display, the 2025 Toyota Crown is an intelligent choice. Its crossover-SUV template variant, the Crown Signia, further broadens its appeal for those preferring a more traditional SUV stance.
2025 Lexus IS: The Unflappable Executive
The Lexus IS has long been a bastion of reliability and refined comfort, yet it perpetually resides in the shadow of its more aggressively marketed German rivals. In 2025, particularly with the 2026 model refresh already making waves, the IS’s commitment to its core strengths makes it an undeniably underrated compact executive sedan. While it might not always boast the razor-sharp dynamics of some competitors, not every luxury car buyer prioritizes lap times. For many, the true measure of luxury lies in a comfortable ride, a meticulously crafted cabin, and unflappable dependability.
The IS delivers on these fronts with unwavering consistency. Its cabin is a sanctuary, designed with premium materials that speak to Lexus’s renowned build quality. The ride quality is supremely comfortable, soaking up road imperfections with grace, making it an ideal companion for daily commutes and long journeys alike. As expected from Lexus, the IS comes generously equipped with an extensive list of features and the brand’s comprehensive safety suite, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, providing peace of mind.
For 2025, the IS carried forward a choice of powertrains, from a spirited turbocharged four-cylinder to a potent V6, even featuring the magnificent 5.0-liter V8 in the limited IS 500 F Sport Performance. However, the truly significant news for the 2026 model, which we’re seeing teased now, is a refined exterior design, a significantly updated interior, and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen paired with a digital instrument cluster. Most importantly, the range simplifies, with the IS 350’s naturally aspirated 311-horsepower V6 taking center stage. For enthusiasts of smooth, linear power delivery and the glorious sound of a naturally aspirated engine – a rarity in today’s turbocharged world – this is music to the ears. Capable of hitting 60 mph in the five-second range, the IS 350 offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. The 2025 model, still prominently featured on Lexus’s US website, continues to be an excellent proposition. For buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and reliable luxury sedan with a focus on a serene driving experience, the Lexus IS remains a hidden gem that offers enduring value.
2025 Genesis G70: Disrupting the Luxury Sports Sedan Status Quo
Genesis continues its remarkable ascent, consistently challenging established European luxury brands, and the 2025 Genesis G70 is a prime example of their disruptive influence. Going head-to-head with segment stalwarts like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the G70 manages to significantly undercut them in starting price – often by $5,000 to $10,000 – while offering an arguably more engaging and equally luxurious experience. This is what makes it so profoundly underrated.
In my view, the G70 represents one of the best “bang for your buck” propositions in the luxury sports sedan segment. It achieves this remarkable feat by packing its sophisticated cabin with upscale amenities and premium materials, often standard features that are expensive options on rivals. Heated and ventilated seats, for instance, are readily available, creating an environment of comfort and sophistication. More critically, the G70 boasts an agile chassis that delivers a genuinely thrilling driving experience. It’s responsive, balanced, and communicative, rewarding spirited driving without sacrificing everyday comfort.
Powertrain choices are equally compelling. The base turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers ample power, but the star of the show is the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. With a robust 365 horsepower, this engine propels the G70 from 0-60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds, putting it squarely in the performance territory of much more expensive sedans. While its brand heritage might not be as long as BMW’s or Mercedes’s, and some early concerns about its dealer network or long-term reliability have been voiced, the reality is that the new G70 is a highly refined and robust vehicle with few downsides. Yes, the base four-cylinder’s 24 MPG combined fuel economy (EPA rated) might trail some rivals like the BMW 330i (30 MPG), but for the overall package of performance, luxury, and sheer value, the G70 is an unparalleled choice. It’s a luxury sports sedan that demands to be experienced.
2025 Lincoln Nautilus: American Luxury Reimagined
For those who believe true luxury should be an immersive experience, not just a badge, the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus stands out as an exceptionally underrated luxury SUV. While the Lincoln badge might not command the same instantaneous cachet as its German counterparts, the Nautilus delivers a distinctly American interpretation of luxury that is both opulent and surprisingly cutting-edge, all at a far more accessible price point than many competitors.
Step inside the Nautilus, and you’re immediately greeted by an interior that redefines modern luxury. High-end materials are abundant, and the design is both sophisticated and inviting. The pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the massive 48-inch screen that gracefully spans the entire dashboard, integrating digital instrumentation and infotainment into a single, seamless, and visually stunning display. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a statement piece that elevates the cabin experience to new heights. Complementing this technological marvel are advanced active safety features and a ride quality that is nothing short of supremely comfortable – a hallmark of Lincoln.
The exterior of the Nautilus is refined and imposing, projecting a confident presence without being overly aggressive. Under the hood, the singular drivetrain option simplifies choice: a 250-horsepower, 280-pound-feet of torque turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. However, the more compelling choice, and where the Nautilus truly shines, is the available hybrid version, which boosts output to a robust 310 horsepower. This hybrid setup is incredibly smooth and quiet, creating a serene cabin environment. As one reviewer aptly put it, the engine sounds “like it’s operating far away, several cars ahead of the Nautilus’ passenger compartment.” While its driving dynamics might not match the surgical precision of sharper rivals like a BMW X7 (which, incidentally, starts at over $80,000, making the Nautilus’s value proposition truly shine), the Nautilus delivers an experience that is deeply luxurious, technologically advanced, and profoundly comfortable. It’s an executive luxury SUV for those who appreciate understated elegance and cutting-edge design without paying a significant premium for a European badge.
2025 Genesis GV80: The Aspirational SUV with Unrivaled Value
The 2025 Genesis GV80 continues to solidify its position as one of the most compelling and, yes, still underrated luxury SUVs on the market. Despite its numerous merits, original design, and opulent offerings, it persistently sits in the shadow of the usual suspects from Europe. This phenomenon often boils down to brand heritage and the curious perception that a lower price somehow equates to less luxury. But for those in the know, the GV80 is a revelation.
Starting significantly under $60,000, the GV80 delivers a plush cabin, exquisite quality materials, and an original design aesthetic that truly sets it apart. The interior is a masterclass in modern luxury, featuring a commanding 27-inch display that elegantly sits atop the dash, integrating infotainment and digital gauges seamlessly. Beyond the impressive screen, the GV80 comes loaded with standard kit that rivals often charge extra for, including heated seats, wireless phone charging, sophisticated ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate. This isn’t just “lots of kit;” it’s thoughtfully integrated technology designed to enhance the user experience.
The engine range is equally impressive. The standard 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder provides ample motivation, but for those seeking more exhilaration, the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 delivers a potent 375 horsepower. This V6 powerplant can hustle the GV80 (which shares its platform with the G80 sedan) to 60 mph in under six seconds, placing its performance squarely in the league of more expensive European rivals like the BMW X7. The GV80 offers an incredible blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive design, making it an exceptional sports utility vehicle for those who demand real opulence and are savvy enough to prioritize intrinsic quality over the sheer prestige of a badge. It’s an intelligent luxury SUV that continues to redefine expectations.
2025 Volvo S90: Scandinavian Serenity (When You Can Find It)
While the 2025 Volvo S90 is no longer directly available for sale as a new vehicle in the U.S. market, its recent presence and enduring appeal make it an important, albeit nuanced, inclusion in any discussion of underrated luxury options. For those looking at the secondary market or for the rare opportunities to acquire remaining inventory, the S90 represented a distinctly Scandinavian take on luxury that was often cheaper than key rivals, depending on trim and configuration.
The S90’s strengths lay in its unique design ambience, embodying the minimalist yet warm aesthetic that has made Volvo a beloved brand. It was a competent, safe, and relatively luxurious sedan, known for its comfortable seats, intuitive Sensus infotainment, and comprehensive safety features. While some critiques pointed to its ride and powertrain refinement not always stacking up against the absolute best in class, or certain aspects like trunk space or a perceived lack of outright luxury features compared to the competition, these were often minor blemishes on an otherwise compelling package. The brand’s positioning sometimes didn’t help it against the flashier Germans, yet its core value proposition was strong.
Standard features included heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a confident standard all-wheel-drive system, all wrapped in a cabin adorned with upscale materials. The base four-cylinder engine, while not “exciting,” offered a robust 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, achieving an EPA-rated 26 MPG combined. However, the true marvel was the plug-in hybrid T8 variant. Combining the turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with two electric motors, it unleashed a mighty 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain not only delivered an impressive EPA-rated 66 MPGe combined but also provided a thrilling four-second 0-60 mph time, transforming the S90 into a surprising performance sedan. For those who appreciate timeless Scandinavian design, uncompromising safety, and genuinely compelling hybrid performance, the Volvo S90, though now a more exclusive find, remains a profoundly underrated luxury sedan that once offered a refreshing alternative in the premium segment.
2025 BMW 5 Series: The Entry-Point to Executive Excellence
It might seem contradictory to label a BMW 5 Series as “underrated,” given its prestige and long-standing reputation. However, in 2025, particularly the base 530i version, it represents an understated luxury sedan that offers remarkable value within a fiercely competitive segment. When higher-spec 5 Series models can quickly climb into six-figure territory, the 530i sits at a surprisingly reasonable starting price, often under $60,000, making it an accessible ticket to the exclusive German luxury sedan club.
While some might find certain interior appointments or features at this price point less extravagant than what cheaper, but incredibly feature-rich, brands like Genesis offer, the 530i still delivers a quintessential BMW experience. The base 255-horsepower engine, though “adequate” rather than “impressive” in the context of BMW’s legendary powerplants, is more than sufficient for most daily driving scenarios and highway cruising. Its EPA-rated 31 MPG combined figure is excellent for a luxury sedan, and it can still reach 60 mph in a respectable five-second range.
The true strengths of the 530i lie in the inherent qualities that define the 5 Series: a spacious interior, perceived quality that aligns with BMW’s usual high standards, and exemplary refinement and ride comfort. These are the cornerstones of the iconic 5 Series, providing a serene and composed driving experience that makes long journeys a pleasure. For those seeking a sophisticated, comfortable, and well-engineered executive sedan that offers all-around capability without breaking the bank, the 530i is an intelligent choice. It allows buyers to step into a truly premium German vehicle with a highly capable powertrain. And for those who demand more power, BMW readily offers solutions like the $67,000 540i xDrive, boasting a magnificent 375-horsepower inline-six engine that perfectly balances performance and luxury.
2025 Lexus LC: The Hand-Built Grand Tourer Masterpiece
To call the Lexus LC “underrated” might seem perplexing given its striking aesthetics and six-figure price tag. However, in a market saturated with high-performance coupes from Porsche, Mercedes-AMG, and Aston Martin, the LC’s unique philosophy as a grand tourer, coupled with its now-rare naturally aspirated V8, often means it’s overlooked by buyers seeking pure track-focused dynamics. For those who appreciate artistry, timeless design, and an unparalleled sense of occasion, the 2025 Lexus LC is a magnificent, handcrafted masterpiece that offers an experience unlike almost anything else.
In my extensive experience with luxury and performance vehicles, the LC is a visual and auditory feast. Its sexy and elegant lines, whether in coupe or convertible form, are nothing short of breathtaking – a design that will undoubtedly age gracefully. But it’s under the hood where the LC truly sings. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine is a rarity in 2025, delivering a glorious, linear powerband and an intoxicating exhaust note that simply cannot be replicated by forced induction. As one drives it, “The LC500 roars to life, with just the right amount of revs to make you feel like you’re about to embark on a special journey. It’s not a new engine, but damn, is it a great one.” This engine, soon to be phased out from other Lexus models, makes the LC an even more poignant and desirable acquisition for discerning enthusiasts.
The cabin of the LC is as plush and elegantly appointed as you’d expect for its price, showcasing Lexus’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality. Features include the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a glass roof with sunshade (for the coupe), eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium 12-speaker Lexus sound system. With rear-wheel drive and that incredible naturally aspirated V8, the LC is more than a match for many European rivals in terms of presence and luxury. However, its setup as a grand tourer first and foremost means its dynamics are refined and comfortable rather than aggressively razor-sharp. While its high price and lack of a manual transmission might make it seem less “hardcore” than some competitors, the LC’s profound beauty, unique powertrain, and unparalleled luxury make it an exceptional, truly underrated vehicle that offers a sublime driving experience. In 2025, it stands as a testament to automotive passion and craftsmanship.
Your Next Luxury Journey Awaits
As we navigate the increasingly complex and exciting automotive landscape of 2025, the opportunity to discover true luxury beyond the most obvious choices has never been greater. The vehicles outlined above represent a curated selection of truly underrated gems, each offering a unique blend of performance, comfort, technology, and value that defies conventional brand perception.
From the agile American spirit of the Cadillac CT4 to the handcrafted grandeur of the Lexus LC, these cars and SUVs demonstrate that an intelligent luxury purchase often means looking past the marketing hype and focusing on the substance. They are a testament to the fact that exceptional engineering and thoughtful design can deliver an experience that rivals, and often surpasses, those of their more celebrated counterparts.
Don’t let preconceived notions limit your choices. If you’re ready to experience luxury that is both distinctive and genuinely rewarding, I urge you to delve deeper into these remarkable machines. Visit your local dealerships, schedule a test drive, and discover for yourself why these underrated luxury vehicles for 2025 are poised to offer you an unparalleled driving experience and outstanding value for your investment. The road to authentic luxury awaits, and it might just be found where you least expect it.
