Luxury car#High-end luxury segment

{{main|Car classification}}

Several car classification schemes include a luxury category, such as:

• Australia: Since the year 2000, the Federal Government's luxury car tax applies to new vehicles over a certain purchase price, with higher thresholds applying for cars considered as fuel efficient.{{cite web |url= https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2008B00131 |title=Tax Laws Amendment (Luxury Car Tax) Bill 2008 |work=Australian Government ComLaw |date=2008 |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=6 July 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220706062705/https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2008B00131 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=The breakdown: Luxury Car Tax – Why luxury cars cost too much in Australia |url= https://www.drive.com.au/motor-news/the-breakdown-luxury-car-tax-20170603-gwjmpt.html |work=Drive |first=David |last=McCowen |date=2 August 2017 |language=en-au |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190324201236/https://www.drive.com.au/motor-news/the-breakdown-luxury-car-tax-20170603-gwjmpt.html |archive-date=24 March 2019 |access-date=3 July 2022}} As of 2019, the thresholds were approximately AU$66,000 (US${{To USD | 66 | AUS | round = yes }},000) for normal cars and AU$76,000 (US${{To USD | 76 | AUS | round = yes }},000) for fuel-efficient cars.{{cite web |title=Luxury car tax rate and thresholds |url= https://www.ato.gov.au/Rates/Luxury-car-tax-rate-and-thresholds/ |website=ato.gov.au |date=1 June 2022 |language=en-AU |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=2 July 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220702115653/https://www.ato.gov.au/rates/luxury-car-tax-rate-and-thresholds/ |url-status=live }}
• Europe: Luxury cars are classified as F-segment vehicles in the European Commission classification scheme.{{cite web |url= https://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m1406_en.pdf |title=Case No COMP/M.1406 – Hyundai/Kia – Regulation (EEC) No 4064/89 Merger Procedure |publisher=Office for Official Publications of the European Communities |date=17 March 1999 |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=23 June 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220623142658/https://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m1406_en.pdf |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url= https://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m1326_en.pdf |title=Case No IV/M.1326 – Toyota/Daihatsu – Merger Decision IV/M.1326 |date=6 November 1998 |publisher=Office for Official Publications of the European Communities |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=4 July 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220704034507/https://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m1326_en.pdf |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url= http://www.autonews.fr/Ecologie/Actualite/CO2-classement-bonus-malus-302439/ |title=Case No COMP/M.5219 – VWAG/OFH/VWGI – Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 Merger Procedure |publisher=Office for Official Publications of the European Communities |date=25 September 2008 |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=19 April 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120419005216/http://www.autonews.fr/Ecologie/Actualite/CO2-classement-bonus-malus-302439/ }}
• Italy: The term "auto di lusso" is used for luxury cars.{{cite web |title=Lusso Means Luxury |url= https://www.forbes.com/2003/10/07/cx_1007vow.html?sh=4f8683ca70be |work=Forbes |access-date=8 November 2022 |date=7 October 2003 |archive-date=9 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221109041058/https://www.forbes.com/2003/10/07/cx_1007vow.html?sh=4f8683ca70be |url-status=live }}
• France: The term "voiture de luxe" is used for luxury cars.{{cite web|url= http://www.autonews.fr/Ecologie/Actualite/CO2-classement-bonus-malus-302439/ |title=Ecologie: les reines du CO2 |first=Leo |last=Mingot |website=autonews.fr |language=fr |date=28 December 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131013123548/http://www.autonews.fr/ecologie/actualite/63853-ecologie-les-reines-du-co2 |archive-date=13 October 2013 |access-date=3 July 2022}}
• Germany: The term {{langx|de|Oberklasse}} (upper class) is used for luxury cars.{{cite web|url= http://www.oeamtc.at/?id=2500%2C1139059%2C%2C |title=Crashtest: Obere Mittelklasse Übersicht A – Z |language=de |publisher=ÖAMTC |date=2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150715160722/http://www.oeamtc.at/portal/crashtest-obere-mittelklasse-uebersicht-a-z+2500+1139059 |archive-date=15 July 2015 |access-date=3 July 2022}}
• Russia: The term ({{lang|ru|автомобиль представительского класса}} ("representative class vehicle, also translated as luxury vehicle) is used for luxury cars.{{cite web |url= http://autogoda.ru/ |title= Car of the Year Russia |year= 2015 |access-date= 16 January 2015 |archive-date= 16 November 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161116094707/http://www.autogoda.ru/ |url-status= live }}
• Rental cars: The ACRISS Car Classification Code is a system used by many car rental companies to define equivalent vehicles across brands. This system includes "Luxury" and "Luxury Elite" categories (along with "Premium" and "Premium Elite" categories).{{cite web |title=ACRISS Car Classification Code |url= https://www.autocarbase.com/2012/11/acriss-car-classification-code.html |website=autocardatabase.com |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=3 July 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220703113257/https://www.autocarbase.com/2012/11/acriss-car-classification-code.html |url-status=live }} The criteria for a vehicle to be considered "luxury" is not published.

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File:1933 Duesenberg SJ Rollston Arlinton Torpedo Sedan - fvr 2.jpg]]

Luxury cars have traditionally emphasized higher levels of comfort, performance, and safety.{{cite web |url= https://www.forbes.com/2007/05/11/car-safe-vehicle-forbeslife-cx_dl_0514safecars/?sh=26642b2342dd |last=Lienert |first=D. |date=14 May 2007 |title=Safest Cars 2007 |work=Forbes |access-date=4 February 2023 |archive-date=4 February 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230204164249/https://www.forbes.com/2007/05/11/car-safe-vehicle-forbeslife-cx_dl_0514safecars/?sh=26642b2342dd |url-status=live }} Manufacturers often introduce new safety technologies and comfort amenities on luxury models before they are available on more affordable models.{{cite web |last1=Maley |first1=Will |title=Luxury Features You Can Find in Affordable Cars |url= https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/luxury-features-you-can-find-in-affordable-cars |publisher=U.S. News & World Report |date=3 August 2016 |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=25 September 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200925020151/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/luxury-features-you-can-find-in-affordable-cars |url-status=live }} Some brands, like Audi and BMW have expanded their marketing downscale out of the traditional luxury realm by "introducing lesser priced and strip-down economy versions of their products."{{cite news |title=Luxury Car Makers should focus on Detailing and Lifestyle marketing: Frost & Sullivan |url= https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/luxury-car-makers-should-focus-on-detailing-and-lifestyle-marketing-frost-sullivan/articleshow/31035266.cms?from=mdr |work=The Economic Times |date=26 February 2014 |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=16 May 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220516190112/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/luxury-car-makers-should-focus-on-detailing-and-lifestyle-marketing-frost-sullivan/articleshow/31035266.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}

Luxury vehicles can be a status symbol for conspicuous consumption.{{cite news |url= https://www.forbes.com/2009/02/27/luxury-expensive-cars-lifestyle-vehicles_luxury_cars.html |title=Ten Reasons To Buy A Luxury Car |work=Forbes |date=27 February 2009 |first=Hannah |last=Elliott |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=31 July 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170731113321/https://www.forbes.com/2009/02/27/luxury-expensive-cars-lifestyle-vehicles_luxury_cars.html |url-status=live }} However, to sort the theft of the most exotic models in a line, and cater to European luxury car buyers who shy away from being identified with conspicuous consumption, brands offer buyers the option of removing exterior badges that identify the model name or engine size.{{cite news |url= https://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/15/automobiles/15LUXO.html?_r=1&ref=automobiles |newspaper=The New York Times |title=In Some Classes, Buyers Are Not Ready to Give Up Their V-8s |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |date=13 August 2010 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=31 July 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170731111200/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/15/automobiles/15LUXO.html?_r=1&ref=automobiles |url-status=live }}

The suspension system of most luxury cars is tuned to prioritize ride quality over handling; however, some are marketed as "sports luxury" and have a greater emphasis on handling characteristics,{{cite web |url= http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2009-bmw-328i-xdrive/ |title=Test Drive: 2009 BMW 328i xDrive |first=Chris |last=Chase |work=Autos |location=Canada |date=9 September 2009 |access-date=27 April 2016 |archive-date=18 February 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140218232724/http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2009-bmw-328i-xdrive/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url= http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=156106 |title=2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS vs. 2009 Lexus ES 350 Comparison Test and Video on Inside Line |website=Edmunds.com |date=30 August 2009 |access-date=14 September 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090904224211/http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=156106? |archive-date=4 September 2009}} while others seek to optimize both.

Traditionally, luxury cars have used a front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) layout. Due to improvements in technology, the FR layout is more expensive to produce and {{citation needed span|text=produces lower fuel economy than a front-wheel drive layout;|date=March 2025}} however, it allows for larger engines (particularly straight-six, V8, and V12) to be used.{{cite web |url= http://www.rearwheeldrive.org/rwd/rwdrate.htm |title=Automaker Ratings |website=Rearwheeldrive.org |access-date=29 September 2009 |archive-date=27 July 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110727203221/http://www.rearwheeldrive.org/rwd/rwdrate.htm }}{{cite magazine|last=Stewart |first=Ben |url= http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/1266931.html |title=Comparison Test: Front-Wheel Drive Vs. Rear-Wheel Drive |magazine=Popular Mechanics |access-date=29 September 2009}}{{cite news |url= http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-66027126.html |title=U.S. luxury car manufacturers are rethinking rear wheel drive]. (Auto Weekend) |newspaper=The Washington Times |location=Washington, D.C. |date=13 October 2009 |access-date=17 January 2011 |archive-date=6 November 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121106055915/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-66027126.html }}

Some American luxury cars during the 1970s through the 1990s switched to a front-wheel drive layout with a transverse engine provoked by the Arab Oil Embargo of 1973 and the 1979 oil crisis, which caused automakers to discontinue many FR platforms in favor of the more economical front-wheel drive (FF) layout.{{cite web |last1=Baruth |first1=Jack |title=Why GM's Front-Drive Luxury Cars Were Great, And Why They Failed Anyway |url= https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/a23105810/why-gms-front-drive-luxury-cars-were-great-and-why-they-failed-anyway/ |work=Road & Track |date=13 September 2018 |access-date=4 February 2023 |archive-date=4 February 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230204164252/https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/a23105810/why-gms-front-drive-luxury-cars-were-great-and-why-they-failed-anyway/ |url-status=live }} From the early 2000s, several of these American luxury cars reverted to FR layouts.{{cite news |url= https://www.nytimes.com/1999/11/12/business/media-business-advertising-cadillac-redesigning-its-image-before-its-retooled.html |title=The media: Advertising: Cadillac is redesigning its image before its retooled cars appear |first=Robyn |last=Meredith |newspaper=The New York Times |date=12 November 1999 |access-date=4 February 2023 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230326024700/https://www.nytimes.com/1999/11/12/business/media-business-advertising-cadillac-redesigning-its-image-before-its-retooled.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Kaus |first=Mickey |url= https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2003/05/advance-to-the-rear-2.html |title=Advance to the Rear |work=Slate |date=9 May 2003 |access-date=3 February 2023 |archive-date=4 February 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230204164249/https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2003/05/advance-to-the-rear-2.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url= http://www.leftlanenews.com/2011-chrysler-300-dodge-charger-to-remain-rear-wheel-drive.html |title=2011 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger to remain rear-wheel drive |publisher=Leftlanenews |first=Drew |last=Johnson |date=14 February 2008 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=26 August 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090826081249/http://www.leftlanenews.com/2011-chrysler-300-dodge-charger-to-remain-rear-wheel-drive.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url= http://www.speroforum.com/site/article.asp?id=5487 |publisher=Spero News |title=Lincoln Town Car wins stay of execution |date=19 September 2006 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=19 February 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100219214429/http://www.speroforum.com/site/article.asp?id=5487 }}

Since the introduction of the Bentley Continental GT in 2003, additional luxury grand tourers have adopted all-wheel drive.{{cite web |last1=Ryan |first1=Colin |title=10 Best Luxury Cars with AWD |url= https://www.autobytel.com/luxury-cars/car-buying-guides/10-best-luxury-cars-with-awd-131769/ |website=autobytel.com |access-date=12 November 2022 |date=2017 |archive-date=13 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221113022510/https://www.autobytel.com/luxury-cars/car-buying-guides/10-best-luxury-cars-with-awd-131769/ |url-status=live }}

File:Revival04_005a.jpg (1927–1933)]]

Prior to World War II, a wide array of European producers made luxury cars, including Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, Delage, Delahaye, Talbot-Lago, Bentley, Alvis, Avions Voisin, Isotta Fraschini, Horch, Simson, Stoewer, Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, Hispano Suiza, Daimler Company, and Spyker.{{cite web |title=10 Luxury Car Brands That Time Forgot |url= https://www.caranddriver.com/features/g15379110/10-luxury-car-brands-that-time-forgot/ |work=Car and Driver |access-date=8 November 2022 |date=9 October 2015 |archive-date=9 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221109042602/https://www.caranddriver.com/features/g15379110/10-luxury-car-brands-that-time-forgot/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last1=Miterko |first1=Andrew |title=Pre-War Luxury and Opulence: Riding in Luxury—Arriving in Style |url= https://rmsothebys.com/blog-editorial-videos/blog-editorial-videos/pre-war-luxury-and-opulence-riding-in-luxury-arriving-in-style/ |work=RM Sotheby's |access-date=8 November 2022 |date=17 April 2019 |archive-date=9 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221109041102/https://rmsothebys.com/blog-editorial-videos/blog-editorial-videos/pre-war-luxury-and-opulence-riding-in-luxury-arriving-in-style/ |url-status=live }}

France was a leading producer of powerful luxury automobiles before World War II.{{cite web |last=Sedgwick |first=Michael |title=The Facel Vega 1954 – 1964 |url=http://www.facel-vega.com/mageng1.shtml |website=facel-vega.com |date=1 March 2017 |access-date=1 February 2018 |archive-date=11 May 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180511152448/http://www.facel-vega.com/mageng1.shtml }} After World War II, the French government used puissance fiscale tax regulations to encourage manufacturers to build cars with small engines and French motorists to buy them. The Maserati-powered Citroën SM and the Citroën C6 were arguably the last domestic French luxury cars.{{cite web |title=Is The French Luxury Car Finally Back? |url=https://oppositelock.kinja.com/is-the-french-luxury-car-finally-back-1561245252 |website=oppositelock.kinja.com |access-date=1 February 2018 |date=9 April 2014 |archive-date=2 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202012554/https://oppositelock.kinja.com/is-the-french-luxury-car-finally-back-1561245252 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Holloway |first=Hilton |title=Is it time to bid adieu to the French luxury car? |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/opinion/industry/it-time-bid-adieu-french-luxury-car |website=autocar.co.uk |date=12 December 2012 |access-date=1 February 2018 |archive-date=2 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202071645/https://www.autocar.co.uk/opinion/industry/it-time-bid-adieu-french-luxury-car |url-status=live }} In the 2010s, some French manufacturers attempted to develop luxury cars; however the lack of a historical legacy hindered these efforts.{{cite news|last1=Schechner|first1=Sam|last2=Pearson|first2=David|title=French Begin New Luxury Car Drive|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10000872396390443862604578030450768236348|access-date=1 February 2018|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|date=5 October 2012|archive-date=2 February 2018|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180202012602/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10000872396390443862604578030450768236348|url-status=live}} In 2014, Citroën introduced DS Automobiles sub-brand to market luxury cars.{{cite web |title=DS range: Our current vehicles |url=https://www.dsautomobiles.com/en/ds-models.html |work=DS Automobiles |access-date=1 February 2018 |archive-date=10 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180110141748/https://www.dsautomobiles.com/en/ds-models.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Barry |first=Maggie |title=DS 7 – lighting the way and pushing ahead |url= https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/motoring/ds-7-lighting-way-pushing-11874644 |newspaper=Scottish Daily Record |date=18 January 2018 |access-date=1 February 2018 |archive-date=2 February 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180202012753/https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/motoring/ds-7-lighting-way-pushing-11874644 |url-status=live }}

Pre World War II, intermediate car manufacturers like Renault, Fiat, Opel, Lancia, Škoda, Riley, Praga, Peugeot, Hillman, and Tatra made luxury cars. However, they had to transition to produce economy cars and superminis post World War II.

Following World War II, Germany rose to become an export powerhouse, building on success with the Mercedes-Benz brand. Aircraft engine manufacturer BMW began making motorcycles then small cars, including under license from the Austin Motor Company, and evolved into the luxury market segment ultimately acquiring Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in 1998.{{cite web|url= https://www.bmwgroup.com/en/company/history.html#accordion-667c52aa80-item-7a1096164e |title=BMW Begins Automobile Construction |work=BMW Group History |access-date=30 December 2024}}{{cite news |last1=Johnson |first1=Maureen |title=BMW To Buy Rolls-Royce for $570M |url= https://apnews.com/article/34de3fa18486f7c756cc3a9f6d5baf92 |work=AP News |date=30 March 1998 |access-date=16 May 2023 |archive-date=16 May 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230516195016/https://apnews.com/article/34de3fa18486f7c756cc3a9f6d5baf92 |url-status=live }} Volkswagen entered the high-end market by expanding or acquiring additional brands such as Audi, Porsche, Bentley, Lamborghini, and Bugatti.{{cite web |title=What Brands Does Volkswagen Own? |url= https://www.motortrend.com/news/who-owns-porsche/ |work=MotorTrend |date=4 June 2020 |access-date=16 May 2023 |archive-date=16 May 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230516195017/https://www.motortrend.com/news/who-owns-porsche/ |url-status=live }}

In the Soviet Union, the manufacturer ZiL (then called Zis) began producing representational limousines in the mid-1930s.{{cite web|url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/heritage_zis_zil |title=The History Of ZIS and ZIL - Russia's Homegrown Luxury Cars |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=30 December 2024}} In the early 1950s, GAZ joined with the somewhat smaller "Chaika" model range. In 2018, Aurus Motors was established to produce luxury vehicles for the Russian market.

File:1940_Packard_180_Darrin_Sport_Sedan_-_fvl_(4668573117).jpg 180 Darrin Sport Sedan]]

The luxury car phenomenon began at the start of the automobile industry when the wealthy frequently invested in manufacturing such models to gain social prestige.{{cite book |last=Davis |first=Donald Finlay |title=Conspicuous production: automobiles and elites in Detroit, 1899-1933 |date=1988 |publisher=Temple University Press |isbn=978-0-87722-549-2 |url-access=registration |url= https://archive.org/details/conspicuousprodu0000davi }} Emphasis was also placed on custom-built coachwork.{{cite book |last1=Carson |first1=Richard Burns |title=The Olympian Cars: the great American luxury automobiles of the twenties & thirties |date=1988 |publisher=Beaver's Pond Press |isbn=978-1-890676-02-5 |edition=Second}} The 1920s and 1930s were the apogee of production of these very large luxury automobiles from many manufacturers. The significant North American manufacturers from 1910 until 1940 included Auburn, Buick, Cadillac, Chrysler, Continental, Cord, Daniels, DeSoto, Duesenberg, Franklin, Imperial, LaFayette, LaSalle, Lincoln, Marmon, Packard, Peerless, Pierce Arrow, Ruxton, Stearns-Knight, and Stutz. The Great Depression put many luxury car manufacturers out of business.{{cite web |last1=Rhodes |first1=David |last2=Stelter |first2=Daniel |title=The Great Depression put many luxury car manufacturers out of business |url= https://www.bcg.com/publications/2010/growth-automakers-accelerated-out-great-depression |publisher=Boston Consulting Group |access-date=3 July 2022 |date=16 February 2010 |quote=Virtually all the smaller companies competed in the expensive or midpriced segments of the market. They were highly exposed to sharp drops in sales as demand fell away. They were slow to cut costs and introduce low-priced models. Apart from Chrysler, the small players either went out of business or lost so much market share that they could no longer compete effectively. |archive-date=25 May 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220525233859/https://www.bcg.com/publications/2010/growth-automakers-accelerated-out-great-depression |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=How the Big Three survived Depression |url= https://www.wheels.ca/news/how-the-big-three-survived-depression |website=wheels.ca |date=9 May 2009 |quote=Many of the smaller automakers folded during the 1930s, including Cord, Durant, Franklin, Peerless, Pierce-Arrow and Stutz. Others survived the Depression, but were so damaged they eventually went out of business, including Graham-Paige, Hudson, Nash, Packard, Studebaker and Willys-Overland. |access-date=4 July 2022 |archive-date=4 July 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220704034511/https://www.wheels.ca/news/how-the-big-three-survived-depression |url-status=live }}

File:1969_Cadillac_Fleetwood_Eldorado_coupe_(7144404693).jpg coupe]]

From 1946 until the late 1990s, Cadillac was the top-selling brand of luxury cars in the U.S., while Lincoln was second.{{cite news|first=John|last=O'Dell|title=Cadillac Apologizes to Lincoln for Inflating Sales Numbers|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1999-may-06-fi-34467-story.html|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=6 May 1999|access-date=11 March 2014|archive-date=12 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312014248/http://articles.latimes.com/1999/may/06/business/fi-34467|url-status=live}} The most successful and long-running model names during this era were the Cadillac DeVille, Lincoln Continental, and the Chrysler Imperial. The Lincoln Mark Series and Cadillac Eldorado were positioned in the personal luxury category, and competition between them continued into the 1990s.{{cite web |last1=Hunting |first1=Benjamin |title=Arch Rivals: Cadillac Eldorado versus Lincoln Continental Mark |url=https://driving.ca/features/feature-story/arch-rivals-cadillac-eldorado-versus-lincoln-continental-mark |website=driving.ca |date=14 September 2021 |access-date=12 November 2022 |archive-date=27 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027081417/https://driving.ca/features/feature-story/arch-rivals-cadillac-eldorado-versus-lincoln-continental-mark |url-status=live }}

The personal luxury car emerged into mass popularity and affordability as an America-specific category of popularly-priced cars made from the 1950s by the four domestic manufacturers (GM, Ford, Chrysler, and AMC) that reached peak popularity in the 1970s.{{cite web |title=Chrysler and AMC lost the plot with 1970s personal luxury coupes |url=https://www.indieauto.org/2022/03/29/chrysler-and-amc-lost-the-plot-with-1970s-personal-luxury-coupes/ |work=Indie Auto |date=30 March 2022 |access-date=4 February 2023 |archive-date=4 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204164249/https://www.indieauto.org/2022/03/29/chrysler-and-amc-lost-the-plot-with-1970s-personal-luxury-coupes/ |url-status=live }} The cars were stylized, mass-produced two-door coupés or convertibles, relying on standard components.{{cite web |url=https://jalopnik.com/whats-the-ultimate-personal-luxury-car-5799318 |title=What's The Ultimate Personal Luxury Car? |last=Spinelli |first=Mike |date=6 May 2011 |work=Jalopnik |access-date=4 February 2023 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326024910/https://jalopnik.com/whats-the-ultimate-personal-luxury-car-5799318 |url-status=live }} These distinctively styled cars were targeting the needs of individual customers, not an entire family.{{cite book |last=Gartman |first=David |title=Auto-Opium: A Social History of American Automobile Design |date=2013 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-135-09427-0 |pages=180–181, 193–194 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=v3IVsc99lewC&q=Personal+luxury+car&pg=PT301 |access-date=27 August 2019}} The longest running model lines were the 1958-1997 Ford Thunderbird, 1956-1998 Lincoln Mark Series, and the 1967-2002 Cadillac Eldorado.

In 1990, American luxury brands dominated, with Cadillac selling over a quarter-million cars, and Lincoln had its best year ever at 231,660 units.{{cite web |last1=Robertson |first1=Barry |title=How Boomers Revolutionized The Luxury Car Market |url=https://www.comingofage.com/robertson/how-boomers-revolutionized-the-luxury-car-market/ |work=Coming of Age |date=30 November 2016 |access-date=28 August 2019 |archive-date=28 August 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190828001152/https://www.comingofage.com/robertson/how-boomers-revolutionized-the-luxury-car-market/ |url-status=live }} However, the market was changing with an ever greater acceptance of smaller, more efficient imported luxury brands. At the same time, the domestic manufacturers were downsizing their models with product decisions that backfired on quality and brand respect.

Since the late 1990s, Japanese and German brands have sold the most luxury-type cars in the United States. However, the Cadillac Escalade has led the luxury SUV segment sales in the United States since its introduction in 1998, with the highest sales for 15 out of its first 20 years on the market.{{cite web |title=Mercedes SUV to Dethrone the Cadillac Escalade? |url= https://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/mercedes-suv-to-dethrone-the-cadillac-escalade-ar3283.html |work=Top Speed |access-date=24 November 2019}}{{dead link|date=January 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}{{cite web |title=Cadillac Escalade: 20 Years on the Road |url=https://cadillacmagazine.com/cadillac-escalade-20-years-on-the-road/ |work=Cadillac Magazine |access-date=24 November 2019 |date=30 August 2018 |archive-date=20 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200120220749/https://cadillacmagazine.com/cadillac-escalade-20-years-on-the-road/ |url-status=live }}

{{anchor|Luxury pickup}}

In the 2000s, both Ford and General Motors produced luxury pickups: 2002-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, 2002-2003 Lincoln Blackwood, and 2006-2014 Lincoln Mark LT.

In the late 2000s, the Cadillac CTS and Cadillac DTS led to a resurgence in the brand's luxury sedans.{{cite news |url=https://www.forbes.com/2005/12/09/luxury-cars-sales-cx_dl_1212feat_ls.html |title=Best-Selling Luxury Cars 2005 |work=Forbes |date=12 December 2005 |access-date=11 March 2014 |first=Dan |last=Lienert |archive-date=27 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100927091536/http://www.forbes.com/2005/12/09/luxury-cars-sales-cx_dl_1212feat_ls.html |url-status=live }} The equivalent sedan from the Ford group, the 2008 Lincoln MKS, was also regarded as a significant improvement over previous models.{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/incoming/lincoln-measures-up-to-stiff-competition/article1199326/ |title=Lincoln measures up to stiff competition |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |date=24 June 2009 |location=Toronto |first=Bob |last=English |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=17 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017170142/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/incoming/lincoln-measures-up-to-stiff-competition/article1199326/ |url-status=live }} In 2010, BMW was the best-selling luxury vehicle manufacturer by sales, with Audi and Mercedes-Benz the second and third highest selling luxury brands.{{cite news|url= https://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100713-708006.html |title=3rd Update: BMW Lifts 2010 Guidance As Demand Improves |newspaper=The Wall Street Journal |date=13 June 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100728225017/http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100713-708006.html |archive-date=28 July 2010 |access-date=15 March 2014}}

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File:Red Flag L5 Limousine (18423546376).jpg]]

File:Toyota Century 3rd generation 2017 Tokyo Motor Show front 1.jpg]]

Chinese manufacturer Hongqi was launched in 1958, making it the oldest Chinese luxury car marque.{{cite web |url= http://www.faw.com/webcontent/aboutfaw.jsp?pros=history_KeyEvent2_6.jsp&phight=2050&about=Key%20Events |title=About FAW > Key Events |publisher=First Automobile Works |location=China |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090304060115/http://www.faw.com/webcontent/aboutfaw.jsp?pros=history_KeyEvent2_6.jsp&phight=2050&about=Key%20Events |archive-date=4 March 2009}} Later newcomers joined taking advantage of the rise of electric powertrains, with NEV brands such as Nio in 2014, Lynk & Co in 2016, HiPhi in 2019, and Zeekr in 2021 producing luxury electric and hybrid vehicles.

Japanese manufacturers have been producing luxury cars since the 1950s, including the Toyota Crown (1955–present),{{cite web |title=Toyota – history of the car company |url=https://www.toyoland.com/history.html |website=toyoland.com |access-date=25 January 2019 |archive-date=2 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180802071713/https://www.toyoland.com/history.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=History of the Toyota Crown |url=https://blog.toyota.co.uk/history-of-the-toyota-crown |website=toyota.co.uk |access-date=25 January 2019 |date=6 August 2015 |archive-date=1 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101090911/https://blog.toyota.co.uk/history-of-the-toyota-crown |url-status=live }} Prince/Nissan Gloria (1959–2004), Nissan Cedric (1960–2015), Mitsubishi Debonair (1964–1998), Nissan President (1965–2010), Toyota Century (1967–present), Mazda Luce/929 (1969–1991), and Honda Legend (1985–2021).{{Cite web |last=Gauthier |first=Michael |date=2021-06-17 |title=Honda Kills Legend And Odyssey In Japan, America's Minivan Not Impacted |url=https://www.carscoops.com/2021/06/death-of-jdm-honda-odyssey-wont-impact-us-spec-model/ |access-date=2024-10-23 |website=CarScoops}}

Since the 1980s, overseas sales of Japanese luxury cars have increased, challenging traditional European luxury brands.{{cite web |first=Paul A. |last=Eisenstein |url= http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32860931/ns/business-the_drivers_seat/ |title=Luxury car market may never look the same |publisher=MSNBC |date=18 September 2009 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=2 October 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091002133327/http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32860931/ns/business-the_drivers_seat/ |url-status=dead }}

File:Genesis G90 LWB 3.5T 48V RS4 Maui Black (6) (cropped).jpg]]

Several East Asian manufacturers have created sub-brands for the marketing of luxury cars. The first of these was the 1986 launch of Acura (a Honda sub-brand), followed by Lexus (Toyota) in 1989, Infiniti (Nissan) in 1989, and Genesis (Hyundai) in 2015.

The 2008 financial crisis and the Great Recession marked the first time since the Great Depression that the luxury car market suffered considerably, something not seen in previous economic downturns. Many such customers saw their net worth decline during this time.{{cite news |first=Poornima |last=Gupta |url= https://www.reuters.com/article/retire-us-bentley-idUSTRE58A5NI20090911 |title=Bentley sees signs of revival in luxury car class |work=Reuters |date=11 September 2009 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=14 March 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200314193719/https://www.reuters.com/article/retire-us-bentley-idUSTRE58A5NI20090911 |url-status=live }} For example, some of the steepest drop-offs came at the high end, including the BMW 7 Series and Rolls-Royce Phantom, and in 2010 Mercedes-Benz dropped the price of the W212 E-Class. The unusually sharp decline in luxury car sales has led observers to believe that there is a fundamental shift and reshaping of the luxury automotive market, with one industry official suggesting that the marques no longer command the premiums that they used to and another saying that conspicuous consumption was no longer attractive in poor economic conditions. Additionally, mainstream brands have been able to offer amenities and devices such as leather, wood, and anti-lock brakes, previously found only on luxury cars, as the costs decline.

However, luxury vehicle sales remained relatively high compared to their non-luxury counterparts.{{cite web|url= https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hg7ZPPZIisna-qPbZtGBKr5P0s0g |title=Drop in Germany luxury car sales eases |agency=Agence France-Presse |date=8 September 2009 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111211141617/https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hg7ZPPZIisna-qPbZtGBKr5P0s0g |archive-date=11 December 2011}}{{cite news|url= http://www.bizjournals.com/triangle/stories/2008/12/01/focus1.html |title=Recession not a roadblock for luxury-car sales |newspaper=Triangle Business Journal |date=1 December 2008 |first=Richard R. |last=Rogoski |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=26 May 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110526223736/http://www.bizjournals.com/triangle/stories/2008/12/01/focus1.html |url-status=live }} This was aided by growing interest in luxury vehicles from emerging markets such as China and Russia.

Sales in the entry-level luxury segment remained strong throughout the GFC, due to prices being lowered to compete with well-equipped non-luxury cars.{{cite news|last=Van |first=Nicolas |url= https://ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |title=Luxury makers smash August sales records in Canada |newspaper=Ottawa Citizen |date=8 September 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120320081039/http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |archive-date=20 March 2012 |access-date=11 March 2014}}{{cite news|url= https://www.bizjournals.com/wichita/stories/1998/08/31/newscolumn1.html |title=How Mercedes got its groove back |newspaper=The Business Journals |date=30 August 1998 |access-date=27 November 2019 |archive-date=16 January 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210116140150/https://www.bizjournals.com/wichita/stories/1998/08/31/newscolumn1.html |url-status=live }} For example, in Canada, several luxury manufacturers set sales records in August 2009, due mostly to discounted pricing on entry-level luxury vehicles.{{cite web|last=Van |first=Nicolas |url= https://ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |title=Luxury makers smash August sales records in Canada |work=Ottawa Citizen |date=4 June 2009 |access-date=10 September 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120320081039/http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |archive-date=20 March 2012}}{{cite news |first=Michael |last=Vaughan |url= https://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/incentives-are-an-expensive-way-to-sell/article1280912/ |title=Incentives are 'an expensive way to sell' |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto |date=9 September 2009 |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-date=17 September 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090917082308/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/incentives-are-an-expensive-way-to-sell/article1280912/ |url-status=live }}

File:Duesenberg.jpg, "one of the great luxury cars"{{cite book|last=Roe |first=Fred |title=Duesenberg – The Pursuit of Perfection |publisher=Dalton Watson |year=1986 |isbn=978-0-901564-37-5 }} with custom body by Willoughby]]

File:1932 Nash Ambassador 8 Convertible Sedan (30290179718).jpg 8 Convertible Sedan, characterized as "the Duesenberg from Kenosha"{{cite magazine |last1=DeMauro |first1=Thomas A. |title=The Duesenberg From Kenosha - 1933 Nash Ambassador Brougham |magazine=Hemmings Classic Car |date=May 2016 |url= https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/the-duesenberg-from-kenosha-1933-nash-ambassador-brougham |access-date=8 November 2022}}]]

File:Isotta-Fraschini 8A-Roadster Front-view.JPG Tipo 8A S LeBaron Boattail Roadster{{cite web |url= http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z6808/Isotta-Fraschini-Tipo-8A.aspx |title=1930 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A news, pictures, and information |website=conceptcarz.com |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=12 March 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140312103637/http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z6808/Isotta-Fraschini-Tipo-8A.aspx |url-status=live }}]]

File:1936_Delage_D8_120_Chapron_Cabriolet_(3829550626).jpg D8 120 Chapron Cabriolet{{cite web |title=Delage D8-120 |url= https://mullinautomotivemuseum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Delage-D8-120.pdf |publisher=Mullin Automotive Museum |access-date=5 July 2021 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184247/https://mullinautomotivemuseum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Delage-D8-120.pdf |url-status=live }}]]

File:500K_Spezial-Roadster.jpg Spezial-Roadster{{cite web |last1=Branch |first1=Ben |title=1934 Mercedes-Benz 500K/540K Spezial Roadster |url= https://silodrome.com/mercedes-benz-500k/ |publisher=Silodrome |date=9 July 2014 |access-date=5 July 2021 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210709190442/https://silodrome.com/mercedes-benz-500k/ |url-status=live }}]]

Some auto manufacturers market their luxury models using the same marque as the rest of their line. Others have created a separate marque (e.g. Lexus, launched by Toyota in 1989){{cite press release |title=The History of Lexus |url= http://pressroom.lexus.com/releases/history+lexus.htm |publisher=Lexus |location=US |date=19 April 2013 |access-date=10 January 2019}} or purchased one (e.g. Bentley, by Volkswagen in 1998).{{cite web |title=A Look at Bentley Through the Ages |url= https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bentley-history-eg18-2836509/ |website=robbreport.com |date= 27 December 2018 |access-date=6 January 2019 |archive-date=6 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190106104426/https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bentley-history-eg18-2836509/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Bentley History |url= http://www.rolls-royceandbentley.co.uk/bentley-history.html |website=rolls-royceandbentley.co.uk |access-date=6 January 2019 |archive-date=15 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190115030717/http://www.rolls-royceandbentley.co.uk/bentley-history.html |url-status=live }}

Occasionally, a luxury car is initially sold under a mainstream marque and is later rebranded under a specific luxury marque (for example, the Hyundai's Genesis to Genesis G80 as well as the Citroën DS to DS 5).{{cite web |url= http://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/genesis |title=Hyundai Genesis Review |work=Car and Driver |access-date=22 March 2016 |archive-date=22 March 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160322225409/http://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/genesis |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url= http://blog.caranddriver.com/genesis-2-0-hyundais-genesis-to-become-separate-luxury-brand/ |title=Genesis 2.0: Hyundai's Genesis to Become Separate Luxury Brand |first=Joe |last=Lorio |work=Car and Driver |date=4 November 2015 |access-date=22 March 2016 |archive-date=10 January 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180110023327/https://blog.caranddriver.com/genesis-2-0-hyundais-genesis-to-become-separate-luxury-brand/ }}

For mass-produced luxury cars, sharing of platforms or components with other models is common,{{cite magazine |url= http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2013-acura-ilx-concept-photos-and-info-news |title=2013 Acura ILX Concept – This concept previews a production Civic-based compact for Honda's luxury brand |magazine=Car and Driver |date=January 2012 |first=Andrew |last=Wendler |access-date=11 March 2014}} as per modern automotive industry practice.

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{{Main|Compact executive car|D-segment}}

A compact executive car or a compact luxury car is a premium car larger than a premium compact and smaller than an executive car. In European classification, compact executive cars are part of the D-segment. In North American terms, close equivalents are "compact premium car", "compact luxury car",{{cite web|url= http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2008-premium-compact-car-buying-guide1.htm |first=Rick |last=Cotta |title=The Consumer Guide to 2008 Premium Compact Cars |work=Consumer Guide Automotive |date=30 October 2008 |access-date=25 April 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081109121246/http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2008-premium-compact-car-buying-guide1.htm |archive-date=9 November 2008}} "entry-level luxury car" and "near-luxury car".{{cite magazine |url= http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/Upscale-Midsize-Cars/ |title=Car Rankings: Best Upscale Midsize Cars – Best Cars & Trucks |magazine=U.S. News & World Report |access-date=8 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150408080821/http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/Upscale-Midsize-Cars/ |archive-date=8 April 2015}} Compact executive cars are usually based on the platform of a mid-size car (also known as large family car or D-segment), while some models may be based on a compact car (also known as small family car or C-segment).

File:2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Speciale TD Automatic 2.1 Front.jpg|Alfa Romeo Giulia

File:Volvo S60 T5 R Monrepos 2019 IMG 1886.jpg|Volvo S60

File:Peugeot 508 B (2023) Retro Classics 2024 IMG 8999.jpg|Peugeot 508

{{main|Executive car|E-segment}}

Executive car is a British term for an automobile larger than a large family car. In official use, the term is adopted by Euro NCAP, a European organization founded to test for car safety. It is a passenger car classification defined by the European Commission.

File:BMW G60 520i 1X7A2443.jpg|BMW 5 Series

File:Audi A6L 55 TFSIe Quattro 1Y7A5429.jpg|Audi A6

File:2018 Jaguar XF V6 S Diesel Automatic 3.0 Front.jpg|Jaguar XF

{{Main|F-segment}}

The next category of luxury cars is known in Great Britain as a "luxury saloon" or "luxury limousine,"{{cite web |title=Jaguar XJ Review (2019) |url= https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/jaguar/xj |website=autocar.co.uk |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=29 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190129163317/https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/jaguar/xj |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Mercedes-Benz S-Class saloon review |url= https://www.parkers.co.uk/mercedes-benz/s-class/ |website=parkers.co.uk |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190113232158/https://www.parkers.co.uk/mercedes-benz/s-class/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=New Audi A8 55 TFSI 2018 review |url= https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/audi/a8/103272/new-audi-a8-55-tfsi-2018-review |work=Auto Express |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190113232259/https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/audi/a8/103272/new-audi-a8-55-tfsi-2018-review |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Lexus LS 500h Saloon (2017 – ) review |url= https://www.autotrader.co.uk/content/car-reviews/lexus-ls-500h-review-saloon-2017 |website=autotrader.co.uk |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190113143726/https://www.autotrader.co.uk/content/car-reviews/lexus-ls-500h-review-saloon-2017 |url-status=live }} and is known in the United States as a full-size luxury sedan, large luxury sedan, or flagship sedan.{{cite web |title=2019 Audi A8 First Look |url= https://www.motortrend.com/news/2019-audi-a8-first-look-review/ |website=motortrend.com |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190113232117/https://www.motortrend.com/news/2019-audi-a8-first-look-review/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=2019 Lexus LS 500: A suitably cushy flagship with a polarizing visual edge |url= https://autoweek.com/article/car-reviews/2019-lexus-ls-500-suitably-cushy-flagship-polarizing-visual-edge |website=autoweek.com |date= 7 December 2018 |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190113122651/https://autoweek.com/article/car-reviews/2019-lexus-ls-500-suitably-cushy-flagship-polarizing-visual-edge |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=2019 Infiniti Q70 Reviews |url= https://www.caranddriver.com/infiniti/q70 |website=caranddriver.com |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=12 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190112224328/https://www.caranddriver.com/infiniti/q70 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=2018 Genesis G90 Review, Ratings, Specs, Prices, and Photos |url= https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/genesis_g90_2018 |website=thecarconnection.com |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190113122511/https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/genesis_g90_2018 |url-status=live }} It is the equivalent of the European F-segment and the German Oberklasse segment.

Many of these luxury saloons are the flagship for the marque and include the newest automotive technology.{{cite web |url= http://luxuryvehiclealabama.tumblr.com/ |title=2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – Consumer Guide Automotive |website=luxuryvehiclealabama.tumblr.com |access-date=23 June 2015 |archive-date=24 June 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150624015022/http://luxuryvehiclealabama.tumblr.com/ |url-status=live }} Several models are available in long-wheelbase versions, which provide additional rear legroom and may have a higher level of standard features.{{cite magazine |url= http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/07q1/2006_jaguar_super_v-8_vs._2007_m-b_s550_2006_audi_a8l_2007_lexus_ls460l_2006_bmw_750li-comparison_tests |title=2006 Jaguar Super V-8 vs. 2007 M-B S550, 2006 Audi A8L, 2007 Lexus LS460L, 2006 BMW 750Li – Comparison Tests |magazine=Car and Driver |date=January 2007 |first=Barry |last=Winfield |access-date=11 March 2014}}

Examples of luxury saloons / full-size luxury sedans include the BMW 7 Series,{{cite web |title=European sales 2017 Limousine segment |url= http://carsalesbase.com/european-sales-2017-limousine-segment/ |website=carsalesbase.com |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=19 January 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210119185900/http://carsalesbase.com/european-sales-2017-limousine-segment/ |url-status=live }} Jaguar XJ, Cadillac CT6,{{cite web|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/cadillac/ct6|title= Cadillac CT6|work= caranddriver.com|access-date= 12 July 2015|archive-date=14 July 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150714035400/http://www.caranddriver.com/cadillac/ct6|url-status= live}} Genesis G90, Audi A8,{{cite web|date=13 August 2018|title=US car sales analysis 2018 Q2 - Limousine segment |url= https://carsalesbase.com/us-car-sales-analysis-2018-q2-limousine-segment/ |access-date=4 January 2021|website=carsalesbase.com |archive-date=19 January 2021|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210119185831/http://carsalesbase.com/us-car-sales-analysis-2018-q2-limousine-segment/ |url-status=live}} Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS,{{cite web |title=US car sales analysis 2018 Q2 – Limousine segment |url= http://carsalesbase.com/us-car-sales-analysis-2018-q2-limousine-segment/ |website=carsalesbase.com |access-date=13 January 2019 |date=13 August 2018 |archive-date=23 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190123030155/http://carsalesbase.com/us-car-sales-analysis-2018-q2-limousine-segment/ |url-status=live }}Hongqi H9, Porsche Panamera and Maserati Quattroporte.

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File:Mercedes-Benz W223 IMG 3970.jpg|Mercedes-Benz S-Class

File:Porsche 972 IMG 9526.jpg|Porsche Panamera

File:Maserati Quattroporte VI Trofeo 1X7A0312.jpg|Maserati Quattroporte

Luxury cars costing over {{USD|100,000}} (as of 2007) can be considered as "ultra-luxury cars".{{cite web |title=Ultra-Luxury Cars |url= http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=434553 |publisher=MSN |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140707125331/http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=434553 |archive-date=7 July 2014}} Examples include the Rolls-Royce Phantom, Maybach 57 and 62, Hongqi L5, Bentley Mulsanne, Cadillac Celestiq, Toyota Century, and Aurus Senat.{{cite web |first1=Brian|last1=Silvestro|first2=Joey|last2=Capparella|title=18 of the Most Luxurious Cars You Can Buy |url= https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/buying-maintenance/g6830/best-luxury-cars-brands/ |work=Road & Track |access-date=15 January 2019 |date=16 November 2018 |archive-date=15 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190115184054/https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/buying-maintenance/g6830/best-luxury-cars-brands/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=8 Most Luxurious Cars That Aren't A Rolls-Royce |url= https://www.hotcars.com/8-most-luxurious-cars-that-arent-a-rolls-royce/ |website=hotcars.com |access-date=23 June 2021 |date=6 March 2021 |archive-date=24 June 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210624203739/https://www.hotcars.com/8-most-luxurious-cars-that-arent-a-rolls-royce/amp/ |url-status=live }} High-end sports cars which are targeted towards performance rather than luxury are not usually classified as ultra-luxury cars, even when their cost is greater than {{USD|100000}}. The history of a brand and the exclusivity of a particular model can result in price premiums compared to luxury cars with similar features from less prestigious manufacturers.{{cite news |url= https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/02/automobiles/autoreviews/a-threat-to-the-job-security-of-chauffeurs.html |newspaper=The New York Times |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |title=A Threat to the Job Security of Chauffeurs |date=30 September 2011 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=19 February 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170219091319/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/02/automobiles/autoreviews/a-threat-to-the-job-security-of-chauffeurs.html |url-status=live }} Ultra-luxury cars are usually selected as the official state car.{{cite news |url= https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/auto/miscellaneous/ten-most-expensive-official-state-cars/articleshow/55452027.cms |newspaper=The Times of India |title=The most powerful people in the world and their cars |date=16 November 2016 |access-date=22 June 2021 |archive-date=19 November 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161119143929/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/auto/miscellaneous/Ten-most-expensive-official-state-cars/articleshow/55452027.cms |url-status=live }}

File:Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII EWB Genf 2018.jpg|Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII

File:Bentley Mulsanne, GIMS 2019, Le Grand-Saconnex (GIMS1013).jpg|Bentley Mulsanne

File:Maybach 62 S Landaulet 1X7A0315.jpg|Maybach 62 S

{{main|Grand tourer}}

Grand tourers are essentially high-performance luxury vehicles. These vehicles are generally two-door coupes and are made for long-distance driving, combined with the luxury of an executive car or full-size luxury car.{{cite web|url= https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/best-cars/top-10-best-grand-tourers|publisher=Autocar|title= Top 10 best grand tourers 2023}}

File:2019 Ferrari 812 Superfast S-A 6.5.jpg|Ferrari 812 Superfast

File:Bentley Continental GT (4th gen.) IMG 0556.jpg|Bentley Continental GT

File:2024 Aston Martin DB12 5.jpg|Aston Martin DB12

Long before the luxury SUV segment was defined and became popular, the 1966 Jeep Super Wagoneer was marketed at the time as a fully-equipped station wagon.{{cite web |title=A Look Back at the History of the Jeep Wagoneer |url= https://www.miamilakesautomall.com/history-of-the-jeep-wagoneer |website=miamilakesautomall.com |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=17 August 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220817221258/https://www.miamilakesautomall.com/history-of-the-jeep-wagoneer |url-status=live }}{{cite book|last=Gunnell |first=John |title=American Cars of the 1960s: A Decade of Diversity |publisher=Krause Publications |year=2005 |page=213 |isbn=978-0-89689-131-9 }}{{cite web |last1=Lame |first1=Gleni |title=The 1966 Jeep Super Wagoneer Was Probably The World's First Luxury SUV |url= https://www.hotcars.com/the-1966-jeep-super-wagoneer-was-the-worlds-first-luxury-suv/ |work=HotCars |date=6 June 2021 |access-date=12 November 2022 |archive-date=13 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221113022507/https://www.hotcars.com/the-1966-jeep-super-wagoneer-was-the-worlds-first-luxury-suv/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url= https://auto.howstuffworks.com/1963-1992-jeep-wagoneer-and-grand-wagoneer.htm |title=1966 Jeep Wagoneer |date=29 August 2007 |website=How Stuff Works |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=30 June 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220630110609/https://auto.howstuffworks.com/1963-1992-jeep-wagoneer-and-grand-wagoneer.htm |url-status=live }}{{refpage|page=3}} It was the first off-road SUV to offer a V8 engine and automatic transmission along with luxury car trim and equipment.{{cite magazine |url= http://www.4wdandsportutility.com/features/jeep/0801_4wd_1963_jeep_wagoneer/index.html |last=Foster |first=Patrick |title=1963 Jeep Wagoneer – Landmark Vehicle |magazine=4 Wheel Drive & Sport Utility Magazine |date=January 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140114212714/http://www.fourwheeler.com/features/0801-4wd-1963-jeep-wagoneer |archive-date=14 January 2014 |access-date=3 July 2022}} Standard features included bucket seating, a center console, air conditioning, a seven-position tilt steering wheel, a vinyl roof, and gold-colored trim panels on the body sides and tailgate.{{refpage|page=3}} By the late 1970s, optional equipment included an electric sunroof.{{refpage|page=4}} The 1978 Jeep Wagoneer Limited was the spiritual successor to the Super Wagoneer and was the first four-wheel drive car to use leather upholstery.{{refpage|page=5}}

The Range Rover was released in 1970 as a two-door vehicle for off-road durability with few "creature comforts."{{cite web |title=Flat-out in a unique rally Range Rover |url= https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/flat-out-unique-rally-range-rover |work=Classic & Sports Car |access-date=12 November 2022 |date=2 November 2021 |archive-date=13 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221113022510/https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/flat-out-unique-rally-range-rover |url-status=live }} A four-door version was added in 1981, and the model was pushed upmarket in 1983 by introducing an automatic transmission (Chrysler's A727 TorqueFlite) as an option.{{cite web |title=Range Rover 1983 (press release) |url= http://www.range-rover-classic.com/Home/range-rover-by-year/range-rover-1983 |website=range-rover-classic.com |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=25 May 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220525091003/http://www.range-rover-classic.com/Home/range-rover-by-year/range-rover-1983 |url-status=live }} The Range Rover had a long-travel coil-spring suspension and an aluminium V8 engine.{{cite web |title=The Land Rover History: Timeline |url= https://www.winwaed.com/landy/history/timeline.php |website=winwaed.com |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=15 December 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221215191740/https://www.winwaed.com/landy/history/timeline.php |url-status=live }}

In the mid-1990s, the SUV market expanded with new entrants. By the mid-1990s, the entry-level Ford Explorer and upscale Jeep Grand Cherokee were the market leaders for SUVs.{{cite magazine |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=MWUEAAAAMBAJ&q=The+Big+Three,+especially+with+Ford+Explorer+and+Jeep+Grand+Cherokee,+dominate+the+market+for+the+red-hot+sport/utilities&pg=PA58 |magazine=Popular Mechanics |date=May 1996 |title=Happy 100th! |first1=Scott |last1=Oldham |first2=Michael |last2=Lamm |volume=173 |issue=5 |access-date=11 March 2014}} The fastest-growing sector of this market was for the so-called luxury SUVs, which included the Jeep Grand Cherokee ... the Grand Cherokee's allure: "This vehicle is proof you can have a true off-road vehicle without giving up luxuries and amenities" with the Jeep providing a crucial new intangible factor for buyers—image.{{cite book|title=Encyclopedia of major marketing campaigns |volume=2 |first=Thomas |last=Riggs |page=390 |publisher=Gale Group |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-7876-7356-7 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=BKhWAAAAYAAJ&q=the+fastest+growing+sector+of+this+market+was+for+the+so-called+luxury+SUVs,+which+included+the+Jeep+Grand+Cherokee.+The+company's+website+explained+the+allure:+%22This+vehicle+is+proof+you+can+have |access-date=11 March 2014}}

The SUV models generated higher profit margins than passenger cars, and car manufacturers began introducing new luxury SUVs during the late 1990s.{{cite book |last=Frankel |first=Ernst G.|title=Challenging American Leadership: Impact of National Quality on Risk of Losing Leadership |publisher=Springer-Verlag |year=2006 |page=35 |isbn=978-1-4020-4892-0}} SUVs such as the 1995 Lexus LX, 1997 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and 1998 Lincoln Navigator were the first SUVs produced by these luxury car brands. Some of these early luxury SUV models used unibody construction, becoming part of the trend moving away from the body-on-frame construction traditionally used by off-road vehicles.

During the mid-2000s, SUVs from luxury car brands grew by almost 40% in the United States to more than 430,000 vehicles (excluding SUV-only brands like Hummer and Land Rover), at a time when luxury car sales suffered a 1% decline, and non-luxury SUV sales were flat. By 2004, 30% of major luxury brands' U.S. sales were SUVs. Crossover SUVs became increasingly popular in the mid-2000s, and manufacturers also began to produce luxury versions of crossovers. The Lexus RX was the earliest luxury crossover on the market, and it has since been the best-selling luxury vehicle in the US.{{cite web|url= http://www.allbusiness.com/transportation/motor-vehicle-manufacturing/635959-1.html |title=Lexus The Truckmaker |date=1 September 2000 |publisher=Automotive Industries |last=Gross |first=Ken |access-date=15 November 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081230185535/http://www.allbusiness.com/transportation/motor-vehicle-manufacturing/635959-1.html |archive-date=30 December 2008}} Some luxury crossovers are built on a platform shared with sedans or hatchbacks. For example, the Infiniti FX is based upon the same platform as the Infiniti G35 sedans and coupes.{{cite news |first=Ted |last=Laturnus |url= https://www.pinterest.com/pin/658440408020665526/ |title='Infiniti Q50 Infogaphic |work=Pinterest |date=4 March 2021 |access-date=4 March 2021 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025924/https://www.pinterest.com/pin/658440408020665526/ |url-status=live }} While early luxury crossovers released in the late 1990s have resembled traditional boxy SUVs, later crossovers, such as the Infiniti FX and BMW X6, have been designed with a sporting appearance.{{cite web|url= http://www.edmunds.com/infiniti/fx35/review.html |title=Inifiti FX35 Review (MY 2010) |access-date=21 January 2010 |website=Edmunds.com |year=2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091211182435/http://www.edmunds.com/infiniti/fx35/review.html |archive-date=11 December 2009}}{{cite web |url= http://www.cars.com/infiniti/fx35/2009/expert-reviews/ |title=2009 Infiniti FX35 |website=cars.com |date=15 September 2008 |first=David |last=Thomas |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=7 August 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160807194349/http://www.cars.com/infiniti/fx35/2009/expert-reviews/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url= https://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/22/automobiles/autoreviews/22AUTO.html |newspaper=The New York Times |title=New-Age Mutant Ninja Wagons |first=Ezra |last=Dyer |date=22 June 2008 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=31 July 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170731110140/http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/22/automobiles/autoreviews/22AUTO.html |url-status=live }}

Despite the increased popularity of crossover models, traditional luxury SUVs remain in production. Examples include the Lexus LX, Infiniti QX80, and Lincoln Navigator.{{cite web|url= http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Lexus_LX/|title=2014 Lexus LX Reviews, Pictures and Prices|publisher=U.S. News Rankings and Reviews|access-date=11 March 2014|archive-date=12 March 2014|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140312013419/http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Lexus_LX/|url-status=live}}

Research data from the mid-2000s suggested that luxury SUV buyers did not consider traditional luxury cars (e.g. sedans and coupes), therefore the SUV is becoming the key to bringing new customers into luxury dealerships.{{cite news |last=Isidore |first=Chris |url= https://money.cnn.com/2004/01/06/news/companies/detroit_luxury_suv/ |title=Luxury SUVs: key to growth for luxury brands, SUV segment |publisher=CNN |date=7 January 2004 |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-date=21 September 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200921173137/https://money.cnn.com/2004/01/06/news/companies/detroit_luxury_suv/ |url-status=live }}

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Luxury car companies have increasingly introduced SUV or crossover models in the 2010s. For example, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Bentley Bentayga, Aston Martin DBX, Maserati Levante, Lamborghini Urus, and Ferrari Purosangue. Some brands, such as Lincoln, have even moved to an all SUV and/or crossover lineup.

File:Lamborghini Urus 19.09.20 JM (2).jpg|Lamborghini Urus

File:Ferrari Purosangue IMG 9554.jpg|Ferrari Purosangue

File:Aston Martin DBX707 1X7A0360.jpg|Aston Martin DBX

Manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Lexus, Buick, Hongqi, Zeekr and Volvo have marketed upscale luxury MPVs as luxury vehicles, mainly marketed for Asian markets.

Luxury MPVs generally have 3-rows of six or seven seats; however, range-topping flagship models may also offer a 2-rows option with four seats, which typically have more features than their cheaper counterparts. By the early 2020s, manufacturers have found additional strategies to improve technologies, such as new materials, new systems, and improving exteriors.

Examples of luxury MPV models include Mercedes-Benz V-Class, Lexus LM, Buick GL8, Hongqi HQ9, Toyota Alphard, Volvo EM90 and the Zeekr 009.{{cite web|url=https://www.drive.com.au/news/2024-lexus-lm-price-and-specs/|title=2024 Lexus LM price and specs: Luxury people-mover tops $220,000 |first=Alex |last=Misoyannis |date=20 September 2023 |website=drive.com.au}}{{cite press release|title=Coming soon: the Volvo EM90, our first ever fully electric premium MPV |url= https://www.media.volvocars.com/global/en-gb/media/pressreleases/317208/coming-soon-the-volvo-em90-our-first-ever-fully-electric-premium-mpv |work=Volvo Cars Official Website |date=24 August 2023}}

File:2024 Mercedes-Benz EQV IAA 2023 1X7A0464.jpg|Mercedes-Benz EQV

File:Lexus LM500h IMG01 (cropped).jpg|Lexus LM

File:Zeekr 009 003.jpg|Zeekr 009

• Car classification
• Luxury MPV
• Luxury goods
• Official state car

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{Automobile configuration}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Luxury Vehicle}}

Category:Car classifications

Category:Luxury motor vehicle manufacturers