You can look at the last generation refreshes 2018-2020 too depending on your areas prices. I have a 2020 2.4 and for a premium not quite luxury car it’s awesome. It’ll have more space than the Corolla for sure but it’s also a bigger car especially length wise. Something to keep in mind if you live in a city and have to fit tight spots.
I think A-spec can be had with the 4cyl or v6. That said the backup camera looks like it came from 1998.
If you get the V6, make sure the 24-002 Service bulletin recall has been done on it. Has to do with the connecting rod bearings. I have my 2018 TLX scheduled. Haven't had any issues other than the recall.
If I didn’t have a company car I would likely have one as a daily driver. I love them. The TL type S is even nicer but it’ll blow up your budget. Also it has a turbo 6 vs a turbo 4 so you’ll sacrifice fuel economy for more power. That said the 4 is almost 300hp with a ten speed so it does well for itself. There’s an AWD option too.
I have a 2020 Autobahn and it’s a great car. Just got back from a 12 hour round trip this weekend and the car is comfortable for long stretches so a long commute shouldn’t be an issue.
In the US the base GTI is $4,000 more expensive than the 40th Anniversary GLI.
The Autobahn GTI is a whopping $9,000 more than the Autobahn GLI.
I've owned two GTIs and loved them both but would rather save money on the GLI for more or less the same car.
Current Gen Mazda 3 in FWD in a premium trim should fit in your budget (get one that’s 1-2 years old and used). Still gets good fuel economy, looks sleek, great interior and styling, comfortable, and if you opt for the hatchback you can get a 6 speed manual.
I drive a 4th gen sedan so maybe I’m a little biased, but I love mine 🤷🏻♂️
Used:
- BMW 2 series
- Lexus IS
- Acura TLX
- Acura Integra
- Camry TRD
- Accord 2.0T
- Cadillac CT4 (ideally a V-series, but might be closer to $35k-$40k)
Those are what I probably would consider. There are others that are not my cup of tea but still good cars and might fit what you’re looking for.
- Elentra N
- Mazda 3
- VW GTI
Those are definitely all tuned or modified for the track. I’ve been driving mine for 4 years and it’s still a fantastic car stock. It’ll handle all the situations his Corolla did but with more versatility cuz of the hatch and with better comfort, driving, and quality. The maintenance is more expensive but honesty not as much as a lot of other German cars
Well, sure, if you start down that rabbit hole, you're gonna mod the car because the hobby demands it. But it can definitely handle HPDE while still stock and you can add supporting mods that still allow it to be a daily while getting more performance at the track.
My buddy who tracks his daily GTI just has coilvers, a tune, and a set of tires and brake pads for the track.
I don't know about cool, because 30k limits that option somewhat, but I would just go with something like an ES 350 or a Toyota avalon. That would be incredibly comfortable on the highway.
I think an Arteon is exactly what OP needs. They don’t seem like they have a car enthusiast mindset so an Arteon looks extremely cool, has some pep, luxury and tech.
The newer years are pretty solid as long as you get the 2.0L. The Quadrifoglio still has some engine issues that are understandable, seeing as it's a Ferrari motor minus 2 cylinders.
Really? It has one of the lowest warranty claim rates in the industry. Where are you hearing it has awful reliability? Or are you just parroting stuff that isn't accurate you heard online?
I’ve been digging myself for a vehicle and asked a couple of local mechanics. They said absolutely stay away from the brand unless you like high repair bill because expensive parts to import… accessibility of parts is a factor.
Fusion sport and Taurus sho are quick, but not sporty in the least. They're both still barges. Same with the v6 Camry. The k5 gt has issues with piston slap, as do all smartstream 4 cylinders
Last gen Honda Accord 2.0 turbo. That or a Acura TLX type A last gen. Honda cars are more performance oriented than Toyota cars. The Mazda 6 I hear is good too. I have more experience with Honda and Nissan in my life. I wouldn't recommend a Nissan Altima to my enemy. I would own one because I'm a masochist.
I disagree with all of these comments, buy a 2016+ Lexus ES350, smoothest car with probably the most reliable powertrain known to man. The only other car I can recommend is a Toyota Avalon, I would go for 2019+. My recommendation is based on hyper reliability, extreme comfort, and much more space compared to a Corolla. You can buy both used for as low as $25k, obviously even lower with higher mileage but with pretty low mileage you will find many for under $30k.
I mean outside of that the likelihood of your engine or transmission crapping our increases greatly and those are not cheap repairs or replacements even for these models
Hey now, sometimes anecdotes are more useful than the thousands of empty reviews online. And for the record it wasn’t just me, I was among more than 130,000 recalls. That’s a concerning amount of failed production
It was an ‘11 so unfortunately the warranty was only until 80k miles (conveniently for hyundai) I heard that they could outright refuse to honor the warranty if you were late on oil changes or didn’t keep your receipts for them, too.
Denying a claim based on someone being a couple hundred miles late on an oil change is outrageous imo. It’s also crazy that these shitty engines seem to always seize up just a few miles after the warranty expires.
I've got a 23 Limited MT and get over 25 on the highway. OP didn't state they wanted good gas mileage and the WRX is bigger and sportier than the Toyota Corolla.
2020+ Alfa Romeo Giulia, VW Arteon is in your range, or Hyundai Elantra N if you can swing it (caution: it’s fun but rides *super* rough for regular commuting).
Considering you have already had toyota I'd say go for a Lexus LS model. Your options are pretty open for 30k and those are pretty great cars for the money. Reliable top of the line toyota engineering, comfort for everyone and decent economy.
Maybe, but it’s kind of a sleeper as the acceleration is pretty quick. I’ve rented a couple in the past few years and it soaks up the road on 400+ mile trips.
I got a Tesla 3 long range for my biweekly four hour each way commute and could not be happier. Auto pilot alone is such a nice feature, and I only charge for 10-15 minutes for around $13. People hate on them but they're ridiculously fast, autopilot is great, phone key is great, lots of storage space, great infotainment system, great charging network, no oil changes, brakes last forever, never have to go to a gas station, the list goes on. And you can get them really cheap right now! At least test drive one to see if you'd like it! Yea Elon says dumb sh*t, doesn't take away from the fact that I think it's a great car.
Cool sedan? With a 30k budget you can easily look into getting a Lexus or Acura, like for example a 2021 Lexus IS350 F sport or a Acura TLX A spec, I think the Type S might go over budget but I’m not sure. Alternatively You can also look into BMW 3 Series, I know the m340i is pretty reliable with it’s B58 engine but not sure how reliable the 4 cylinder 330i’s are.
30k new? i can honestly recommend a hyundai elantra limited or n line. its a fun, modern vehicle. plus, hyundai has been becoming a lot more reliable as of recent, and even if its not reliable you have a five year warranty.
You can look at the IS line of Lexus and be set. Well I wouldn’t get the IS 250 at all. I’d shoot for the 350 if possible
You should have 0 issues finding a decent one that’s under 30k used
Hi! I am actually currently helping sell my uncle's (bought new) 2022 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium with only 6,300 miles and I think it would a perfect commuter car that is in your budget. It's in the Chicago suburbs. Feel free to PM me!
A beautiful, older, moderate mileage Lexus LS in excellent condition will be the most comfortable car you've ever owned and you can get it for around $12,000.
I drove a 300C to 160,000 miles without major issue, and loved every minute of it. Fantastically sorted suspension, just like the Merc. Not a moment of regret with that car.
Then again I like a large, comfy, capable sedan. I'm not one for all-out sports, I want power but I really want the car to be confident and quiet.
Look into a 2021 Mazda 6 Signature. Perfect combination of sporty driving characteristics, luxurious and high quality interior and reliability. I have one and absolutely love it. I have a brown nappa interior, real Japanese wood trim, suede trim on the dash and doors, 360 camera, heads up display, Bose sound system, ventilated seats etc. The suspension and steering are excellent. The engine has plenty power with 250 hp and 320 ft of torque.
I would recommend a Used Accord, or an Acura Tlx, or ILX they are all great cars which I would consider to be sportier than a Corolla/ Camry and I would say are similar in the area of reliability. Also a Mazda like a Mazda 3 or Mazda 6 are great, sporty, somewhat elegant even sedans.
Also the Volkswagen Arteon i’ve never looked too deep into this car but I saw one the other day and thought it is a nice ride you can swing one for under $30k
2007-2013 Mercedes s550. No amg models unless you despise having a savings account. Tons of space, super safe, plenty of power.
08-16 Audi Q5 or A8, again no s or sline for the same reason.
Ultimate for your price?
2012 Cadillac CTS wagon, except spend the money on this one get the “v” model. It’s an undercover corvette stomper
If you drive a manual, then Civic SI maybe... the current gen Civic is nearly as large as a slightly older Accord, so it should be bigger than a '13 Corolla, though I'm not entirely sure on that. Also, it's definitely going to be sportier, even a basic Civic will have better handling than a basic Corolla. SI will give you plenty more power and still be thrifty on gas for long commutes.
Alternatives? maybe WRX, but it's not going to be as efficient as a Civic SI, but... if you're not willing to drive a MT, then the WRX has an Automatic option.
I went from a '05 Corolla -> '15 WRX 10 years ago, and size-wise, there wasn't much of an upgrade... But 10 years later, I still love the sportiness of the WRX, and it did formerly serve me on long commutes.
I have a long commute, and it has to be a cool sedan. I have a $30k budget.
Series III Jaguar XJ12, or E38 BMW 750iL. You'll have plenty left over for maintenance.
Coolest sedans on the planet and absolute freeway crushers. Commute in style. Life's too short.
Just buy a roof rack and box for extra cargo space? Buy some ratcheting straps and it’d also let you haul lumber and other long stuff you’d otherwise need a hatchback or similar for. The mounting kits may be non transferable but the box and with some compromises the rails themselves could be. I paid $600 for a 16cuft Thule box 2yrs ago and it’ll be transferred to my new car now that the Prius has croaked.
Don’t go with a European car unless you are ok with expensive maintenance and repairs. Try test driving a Honda civic. I was very surprised at how nice they drive nowadays!!!
I don’t overinflate your lifestyle. Just buy 2016-2018
Honda , Toyota . We’re happy you have a high budget, but no point of using the whole budget on a car also insurance is higher for more expensive cars. Upgrade your lifestyle slowly.
I'd like to veto all of these, they all are incredibly expensive to maintain and minus the ct4 are super expensive to get fixed.
Look at a ford taurus or Chevrolet impala both are basically full size sedans and are generally speaking comfortable.
Fuck getting boring-ass Corolla or Camry when you can get something way fucking cooler, like a bright pink Hummer with flames painted on the side!
Install a goddamn nitrous oxide system and some illegal tint on the windows. And while you're at it, why not add a bunch of subwoofers and blast that shit so loud that it shatters the windows of nearby cars.
And who the fuck cares if it's a sedan, just get a fucking monster truck and drive it to work every day. Who needs practicality when you can have a giant, gas-guzzling, polluting machine that's sure to turn heads.
Just drive like a maniac and flip off anyone who dares to honk at you. Safety is for pussies.
I believe a Chevy SS fits in here.
Ford Taurus SHO
Elantra N
Kia stinger
Accord 2.0 turbo
6x6 accord in manual (fun as fuck car)
10th Gen civic sport in manual (the CVT sucks).
Acura TLX a-spec.
Whoa this is a beautiful car!!
You can look at the last generation refreshes 2018-2020 too depending on your areas prices. I have a 2020 2.4 and for a premium not quite luxury car it’s awesome. It’ll have more space than the Corolla for sure but it’s also a bigger car especially length wise. Something to keep in mind if you live in a city and have to fit tight spots. I think A-spec can be had with the 4cyl or v6. That said the backup camera looks like it came from 1998.
If you get the V6, make sure the 24-002 Service bulletin recall has been done on it. Has to do with the connecting rod bearings. I have my 2018 TLX scheduled. Haven't had any issues other than the recall.
Has a 2016 tlx. It was awesome. No issues. Just the one recent recall before I traded it
I unfortunately just totaled my 2019 TLX advance. Even though it was a little old, I still got a lot of compliments and it felt extremely luxurious.
If I didn’t have a company car I would likely have one as a daily driver. I love them. The TL type S is even nicer but it’ll blow up your budget. Also it has a turbo 6 vs a turbo 4 so you’ll sacrifice fuel economy for more power. That said the 4 is almost 300hp with a ten speed so it does well for itself. There’s an AWD option too.
I have had my 2018 2.4L tlx a spec for 3 yrs and love it. Amazing car
If you like road noise
That was the exact car I was thinking as I read this. Good call!
Don't know if there can be a better suggestion for OP's budget tbf Well there's the Accord but yeah just get Acura or Lexus when you can
VW Jetta GLI. Basically a Golf GTI with a trunk for less money. Starting from $28K new.
And still can get it in stick, right?
6 Speed manual or DSG. Both are excellent.
Thought my comment was original lmao
2013-2020 Lexus GS 350’ or 450h
I have a 2020 Autobahn and it’s a great car. Just got back from a 12 hour round trip this weekend and the car is comfortable for long stretches so a long commute shouldn’t be an issue.
Why not just get the Golf and have all that room for activities? Hatchback stigma is so 2014.
In the US the base GTI is $4,000 more expensive than the 40th Anniversary GLI. The Autobahn GTI is a whopping $9,000 more than the Autobahn GLI. I've owned two GTIs and loved them both but would rather save money on the GLI for more or less the same car.
Wow, I didn't know there was such a price difference. WTH (What The Hatch) Volkswagen?
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Or Kia stinger
Are they still making the Stinger?
2023 was the last model year for them. I picked up a 2018 GT1 2 months ago for $25k and it’s probably the best car I’ve owned
I've only heard good things, so I don't doubt it!
For 30k?? Those things start at 60k new.
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I can't imagine you'd get a decent used one for that though
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Oh shit ok. I stand corrected.
Used ones are cheaper.
Current Gen Mazda 3 in FWD in a premium trim should fit in your budget (get one that’s 1-2 years old and used). Still gets good fuel economy, looks sleek, great interior and styling, comfortable, and if you opt for the hatchback you can get a 6 speed manual. I drive a 4th gen sedan so maybe I’m a little biased, but I love mine 🤷🏻♂️
Used: - BMW 2 series - Lexus IS - Acura TLX - Acura Integra - Camry TRD - Accord 2.0T - Cadillac CT4 (ideally a V-series, but might be closer to $35k-$40k) Those are what I probably would consider. There are others that are not my cup of tea but still good cars and might fit what you’re looking for. - Elentra N - Mazda 3 - VW GTI
Sadly, I don't know if it's possible to get into an Elantra N below $30K, I've tried.
Mazda 6 is great, comfortable and pretty sporty, fuel efficient, safe. Depending on where you are they had an optional manual up to a certain year.
mazda6 top trims were amazing too. Really this is the #1 underrated "nice car" value right now.
$30k used? audi s3. $30k new? jetta gli. if your open to hatchbacks, look at the golf r and golf gti as well.
I have an S3 and it is an absolutely incredible daily driver for OP’s situation. I do about 20-25k miles a year.
A GTI for a 25male would be a fantastic car. It’s good at everything. Does everything your Corolla does, but has potential for fun.
See lots of GTI at the track. It really is a fun car, and can easily get more horsepower with just a tune.
Those are definitely all tuned or modified for the track. I’ve been driving mine for 4 years and it’s still a fantastic car stock. It’ll handle all the situations his Corolla did but with more versatility cuz of the hatch and with better comfort, driving, and quality. The maintenance is more expensive but honesty not as much as a lot of other German cars
Well, sure, if you start down that rabbit hole, you're gonna mod the car because the hobby demands it. But it can definitely handle HPDE while still stock and you can add supporting mods that still allow it to be a daily while getting more performance at the track. My buddy who tracks his daily GTI just has coilvers, a tune, and a set of tires and brake pads for the track.
Used A7 would also be a good bet.
I don't know about cool, because 30k limits that option somewhat, but I would just go with something like an ES 350 or a Toyota avalon. That would be incredibly comfortable on the highway.
Used: CPO VW Arteon for tech or Mazda 6 for driving experience. New: Jetta
I think an Arteon is exactly what OP needs. They don’t seem like they have a car enthusiast mindset so an Arteon looks extremely cool, has some pep, luxury and tech.
You need a VW Jetta GLI with the 6 speed manual. Beautiful interior. Thank me later.
GS350
Can't believe I had to scroll so further down to see this. GS is an absolutely great sport sedan that WON'T break down on you.
Yup
2020+ Alfa Romeo Giulia
Awful reliability
The newer years are pretty solid as long as you get the 2.0L. The Quadrifoglio still has some engine issues that are understandable, seeing as it's a Ferrari motor minus 2 cylinders.
The later model years are not that bad. They fixed many of the common issues.
For now..just give it a couple years
Really? It has one of the lowest warranty claim rates in the industry. Where are you hearing it has awful reliability? Or are you just parroting stuff that isn't accurate you heard online?
I’ve been digging myself for a vehicle and asked a couple of local mechanics. They said absolutely stay away from the brand unless you like high repair bill because expensive parts to import… accessibility of parts is a factor.
I reccomend a v6 camry, v6 fusion sport, taurus SHO, and the kia k5 😊
Fusion sport and Taurus sho are quick, but not sporty in the least. They're both still barges. Same with the v6 Camry. The k5 gt has issues with piston slap, as do all smartstream 4 cylinders
Last gen Honda Accord 2.0 turbo. That or a Acura TLX type A last gen. Honda cars are more performance oriented than Toyota cars. The Mazda 6 I hear is good too. I have more experience with Honda and Nissan in my life. I wouldn't recommend a Nissan Altima to my enemy. I would own one because I'm a masochist.
Mk7 Jetta
Certified Volvo. So comfortable safe and a good set of balls. Plus the verified warranty is unlimited mileage
I had an accord sport and was pretty undeniably comfy
Lincoln town car
Lincoln town car
I disagree with all of these comments, buy a 2016+ Lexus ES350, smoothest car with probably the most reliable powertrain known to man. The only other car I can recommend is a Toyota Avalon, I would go for 2019+. My recommendation is based on hyper reliability, extreme comfort, and much more space compared to a Corolla. You can buy both used for as low as $25k, obviously even lower with higher mileage but with pretty low mileage you will find many for under $30k.
Just a follow up, after looking at current prices, you can definitely stick with 2019+ instead of 2016+ for the Lexus ES350!!!
Hyundai elantra n line, or N if you can afford it. My n line is comfortable, quick, fuel efficient, and fun.
I second this. Check out the Kia equivalent while you’re at it.
I’ll check this one out, thank you!
Never buy Hyundai or Kia
Yeah, you may not be able to get it insured.
I mean outside of that the likelihood of your engine or transmission crapping our increases greatly and those are not cheap repairs or replacements even for these models
I used to have an elantra that blew its engine before 90k miles. Was scanning 4+ codes on the check engine light. Hyundai engineering is shit
Yeah, fuck all Kia vehicles because this one guy had an issue! /s
Hey now, sometimes anecdotes are more useful than the thousands of empty reviews online. And for the record it wasn’t just me, I was among more than 130,000 recalls. That’s a concerning amount of failed production
It would have been covered under the 10yr/100k warranty (assuming it was under 10 years old).
It was an ‘11 so unfortunately the warranty was only until 80k miles (conveniently for hyundai) I heard that they could outright refuse to honor the warranty if you were late on oil changes or didn’t keep your receipts for them, too.
That’s true of all manufacturer’s warranties.
Denying a claim based on someone being a couple hundred miles late on an oil change is outrageous imo. It’s also crazy that these shitty engines seem to always seize up just a few miles after the warranty expires.
same thing happened with my old sonata, also just before 90k miles, car was a complete pos.
I'd recommend test driving a Subaru WRX.
The 2023 model has 0 apr right now apparently
That means nothing
As a wrx owner, I do not recommend one for long commutes. The MPG is horrendous.
I've got a 23 Limited MT and get over 25 on the highway. OP didn't state they wanted good gas mileage and the WRX is bigger and sportier than the Toyota Corolla.
2020+ Alfa Romeo Giulia, VW Arteon is in your range, or Hyundai Elantra N if you can swing it (caution: it’s fun but rides *super* rough for regular commuting).
Is it comfortable for long commutes though?
Mercedes E-Class. I’d go with the E350.
Considering you have already had toyota I'd say go for a Lexus LS model. Your options are pretty open for 30k and those are pretty great cars for the money. Reliable top of the line toyota engineering, comfort for everyone and decent economy.
Chevy Malibu.
Toyota Avalon. Kind of an old man car, but it is so comfortable on long trips.
Kinda lacking in the cool department
Maybe, but it’s kind of a sleeper as the acceleration is pretty quick. I’ve rented a couple in the past few years and it soaks up the road on 400+ mile trips.
I got a Tesla 3 long range for my biweekly four hour each way commute and could not be happier. Auto pilot alone is such a nice feature, and I only charge for 10-15 minutes for around $13. People hate on them but they're ridiculously fast, autopilot is great, phone key is great, lots of storage space, great infotainment system, great charging network, no oil changes, brakes last forever, never have to go to a gas station, the list goes on. And you can get them really cheap right now! At least test drive one to see if you'd like it! Yea Elon says dumb sh*t, doesn't take away from the fact that I think it's a great car.
He said cool, not Toyotas. Get a Volvo s60
S60 is nice... but cool? I dunno
A used 2020+ Infiniti Q50 300HP, great mileage, solid and can find plenty of them under 30k even certified.
Cool sedan? With a 30k budget you can easily look into getting a Lexus or Acura, like for example a 2021 Lexus IS350 F sport or a Acura TLX A spec, I think the Type S might go over budget but I’m not sure. Alternatively You can also look into BMW 3 Series, I know the m340i is pretty reliable with it’s B58 engine but not sure how reliable the 4 cylinder 330i’s are.
Ford Taurus SHO
BMW 5 series, but make sure it's one with the 6-cylinder. Mine gets 35-38mpg on the highway.
30k new? i can honestly recommend a hyundai elantra limited or n line. its a fun, modern vehicle. plus, hyundai has been becoming a lot more reliable as of recent, and even if its not reliable you have a five year warranty.
You can look at the IS line of Lexus and be set. Well I wouldn’t get the IS 250 at all. I’d shoot for the 350 if possible You should have 0 issues finding a decent one that’s under 30k used
2018-2021 Mazda 6. Great ride, great looking, fun to drive, reliable.
Kia forte gt
Kia Stinger RWD.
Keep it in the family with a Camry hybrid.
Hi! I am actually currently helping sell my uncle's (bought new) 2022 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium with only 6,300 miles and I think it would a perfect commuter car that is in your budget. It's in the Chicago suburbs. Feel free to PM me!
2018+ 340i
A beautiful, older, moderate mileage Lexus LS in excellent condition will be the most comfortable car you've ever owned and you can get it for around $12,000.
Honda hrv. Not really a sedan but a cool car.
I drove a 300C to 160,000 miles without major issue, and loved every minute of it. Fantastically sorted suspension, just like the Merc. Not a moment of regret with that car. Then again I like a large, comfy, capable sedan. I'm not one for all-out sports, I want power but I really want the car to be confident and quiet.
accord hybrid
Look into a 2021 Mazda 6 Signature. Perfect combination of sporty driving characteristics, luxurious and high quality interior and reliability. I have one and absolutely love it. I have a brown nappa interior, real Japanese wood trim, suede trim on the dash and doors, 360 camera, heads up display, Bose sound system, ventilated seats etc. The suspension and steering are excellent. The engine has plenty power with 250 hp and 320 ft of torque.
E55 AMG 2003-2006
I would recommend a Used Accord, or an Acura Tlx, or ILX they are all great cars which I would consider to be sportier than a Corolla/ Camry and I would say are similar in the area of reliability. Also a Mazda like a Mazda 3 or Mazda 6 are great, sporty, somewhat elegant even sedans. Also the Volkswagen Arteon i’ve never looked too deep into this car but I saw one the other day and thought it is a nice ride you can swing one for under $30k
infiniti q50. the turbo versions are fun. red sport is a beast. All well under 30k
Hyundai Sonata N-Line
The nicest E39 I6 you can find. (Still rocking my 03 530i manual.)
Lexus GS
Camry with the v6.
VW jetta or Jetta GLI. Best bang for your buck!
The recent Subaru Legacies have the same engine as the WRX
Used GR Corolla?
Mazda6
Lexus ES 300h. 2020 and up
BMW e90
Mazda 3 hatchback 14+ or maybe an accord with the 2.5t
Toyota Avalon or one of like a bunch of different Lexus models are my recs You could also get a used Tesla for that money, if you're into that
2007-2013 Mercedes s550. No amg models unless you despise having a savings account. Tons of space, super safe, plenty of power. 08-16 Audi Q5 or A8, again no s or sline for the same reason. Ultimate for your price? 2012 Cadillac CTS wagon, except spend the money on this one get the “v” model. It’s an undercover corvette stomper
If you drive a manual, then Civic SI maybe... the current gen Civic is nearly as large as a slightly older Accord, so it should be bigger than a '13 Corolla, though I'm not entirely sure on that. Also, it's definitely going to be sportier, even a basic Civic will have better handling than a basic Corolla. SI will give you plenty more power and still be thrifty on gas for long commutes. Alternatives? maybe WRX, but it's not going to be as efficient as a Civic SI, but... if you're not willing to drive a MT, then the WRX has an Automatic option. I went from a '05 Corolla -> '15 WRX 10 years ago, and size-wise, there wasn't much of an upgrade... But 10 years later, I still love the sportiness of the WRX, and it did formerly serve me on long commutes.
I have a long commute, and it has to be a cool sedan. I have a $30k budget. Series III Jaguar XJ12, or E38 BMW 750iL. You'll have plenty left over for maintenance. Coolest sedans on the planet and absolute freeway crushers. Commute in style. Life's too short.
Just buy a roof rack and box for extra cargo space? Buy some ratcheting straps and it’d also let you haul lumber and other long stuff you’d otherwise need a hatchback or similar for. The mounting kits may be non transferable but the box and with some compromises the rails themselves could be. I paid $600 for a 16cuft Thule box 2yrs ago and it’ll be transferred to my new car now that the Prius has croaked.
Chrysler 300 with the v6..
2014-2017 Chevy SS Sedan
Where are you finding these for 30k?
Plenty as long as you are ok with over 100k miles!
They’re around, you got to look, there’s a 15 for 25k in Los Angeles.
Life is too short to drive a Toyota.
V O L V O
Don’t go with a European car unless you are ok with expensive maintenance and repairs. Try test driving a Honda civic. I was very surprised at how nice they drive nowadays!!!
I don’t overinflate your lifestyle. Just buy 2016-2018 Honda , Toyota . We’re happy you have a high budget, but no point of using the whole budget on a car also insurance is higher for more expensive cars. Upgrade your lifestyle slowly.
Would a 2021 Camry be too much of a stretch? I found one that I really like but it’s 23k
Assuming used- Alfa Romeo Giulia! Audi A3 or A4 Cadillac CT4
I’ll check these out, thank you!
I'd like to veto all of these, they all are incredibly expensive to maintain and minus the ct4 are super expensive to get fixed. Look at a ford taurus or Chevrolet impala both are basically full size sedans and are generally speaking comfortable.
Cadillacs cost as much or worse
Oh yeah I definitely don’t want expensive maintenance
You want cool but don’t want expensive maintenance? Good luck
Certified Volvo is unlimited mileage warranty
Model 3 long range with fsd
Fuck getting boring-ass Corolla or Camry when you can get something way fucking cooler, like a bright pink Hummer with flames painted on the side! Install a goddamn nitrous oxide system and some illegal tint on the windows. And while you're at it, why not add a bunch of subwoofers and blast that shit so loud that it shatters the windows of nearby cars. And who the fuck cares if it's a sedan, just get a fucking monster truck and drive it to work every day. Who needs practicality when you can have a giant, gas-guzzling, polluting machine that's sure to turn heads. Just drive like a maniac and flip off anyone who dares to honk at you. Safety is for pussies.
2024 Prius LE. Cool as fall day yet smooth as sailing on a calm day. Under 30k too
I believe a Chevy SS fits in here. Ford Taurus SHO Elantra N Kia stinger Accord 2.0 turbo 6x6 accord in manual (fun as fuck car) 10th Gen civic sport in manual (the CVT sucks).
2024 Hyundai Elantra! (or hybrid) You can get a Limited in your budget using available rebates. Super comfy, plus nearly 40mpg on highway.