The Most Affordable Luxury Vehicles to Maintain: A 10-Year Cost Analysis

When shopping for a luxury vehicle, sticker price is just the beginning. What many buyers overlook is the total cost of ownership—particularly maintenance and repair expenses over the vehicle’s lifespan. Here’s what savvy consumers need to know: some of the cheapest luxury vehicles to maintain can actually save you thousands compared to their European counterparts.

Why Japanese and Korean Luxury Brands Win on Maintenance

According to automotive industry experts, European luxury vehicles tend to carry significantly higher repair costs due to expensive parts and complex systems. In contrast, Japanese and Korean-made luxury vehicles utilize more affordable components, making them substantially cheaper to maintain over time.

“Japanese and Korean luxury brands are engineered with cost-effective parts,” explains Melanie Musson, an auto industry specialist. “This design philosophy means owners face more reasonable repair bills when maintenance is needed.”

Lexus IS 300: The Budget-Friendly Option

For buyers seeking the lowest maintenance burden, the Lexus IS 300 stands out as the most economical choice among cheapest luxury vehicles to maintain. Over a decade, you’ll spend approximately $5,848 on upkeep—remarkably low for a premium sedan.

First-year maintenance runs just $265, making it immediately affordable. There’s only a 15.63% probability of major repairs during the first ten years, meaning fewer surprise expenses. The IS 300 combines Lexus’s legendary reliability with wallet-friendly service costs.

Lexus ES 350: Consistent Value

Virtually on par with its IS cousin, the Lexus ES 350 demands $5,926 in maintenance over ten years. Like the IS 300, it carries a modest 15.63% chance of significant repairs.

The ES 350 breaks the typical luxury car pattern where maintenance expenses spike after year five. “The 350 ES features an engine and transmission built for longevity,” Musson notes. “It doesn’t require excessive maintenance—a key reason it remains cheap to maintain.” Regular oil changes, brake service, and fluid flushes keep this sedan running smoothly for well over a decade.

Genesis G70: Korean Reliability at Scale

Genesis has established itself as a durability leader, and the G70 reflects this reputation. Owners can expect $7,221 in maintenance costs across ten years, with just a 19.65% chance of major repairs.

What makes the G70 particularly appealing is consistent annual spending—under $1,000 per year through year nine. This predictability helps buyers budget effectively. “The G70 is engineered for extended comfort and reliability,” Musson explains. “With standard maintenance protocols, this vehicle easily surpasses a decade of service.”

Alfa Romeo Giulia: Premium Italian Engineering on Budget

Positioned slightly above Genesis in maintenance costs, the Alfa Romeo Giulia averages $7,241 over ten years—still remarkably affordable for a luxury performance sedan. The major repair probability mirrors the G70 at 19.65%.

First-year costs average just $322, indicating gentle early-ownership economics. While maintenance increases over time, the Giulia remains among the cheapest luxury vehicles to maintain when compared to other premium European brands.

Acura TLX: Sporty Sophistication, Sensible Costs

Rounding out the affordable luxury segment is the Acura TLX, with ten-year maintenance projected at $7,897 and a 21.88% major repair probability.

Owners enjoy particularly favorable economics during the first six years, when annual spending stays under $1,000. From year seven onward, budget $1,000-$1,200 annually. For buyers seeking a sleek sport sedan without excessive maintenance burdens, the TLX delivers compelling value.

The Bottom Line

If maintaining low ownership costs is your priority, these five vehicles prove that luxury doesn’t require premium repair bills. By choosing among these cheapest luxury vehicles to maintain, you can enjoy premium features, refined interiors, and reliable performance while keeping your wallet happy. Japanese and Korean manufacturers have fundamentally changed the luxury ownership equation—making sophistication accessible without the European price tag for service.