Why Owning These 6 Luxury Cars Is Costly Beyond the Sticker Price
Owning a luxury car comes with an assumed status symbol, but not every high-end vehicle lives up to its premium price. While top luxury brands promise cutting-edge technology, powerful performance and superior craftsmanship, some models come with hidden ownership costs, poor reliability and expensive maintenance that quickly erode their value.
Alex Black, seasoned automotive specialist and chief marketing officer of EpicVIN, said that if buyers aren't careful, the costs of owning a luxury vehicle can exceed the MSRP due to maintenance and repairs.
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"Luxury cars might be something to boast about, but few are worth their price," he said. Below are the luxury models he said are best avoided, as the price can greatly outweigh the performance down the road.
1. BMW 7 Series
MSRP for 2026: $100,475 to $125,875
With innovations like LED door projectors, an interaction bar with touchscreen controls, a cutting-edge operating system and a 31-inch theater screen with 8K resolution for rear passengers, the BMW 7 Series impresses with high-tech features and elevated comfort. That said, all those innovations can come at a price.
"Electronics fail, suspension deteriorates and even small jobs cost an arm and a leg," Black said. "Post-warranty, the cost of owning a BMW 7 Series will escalate."
2. Land Rover Range Rover
MSRP for 2026: $115,450 to $247,850
The Range Rover is the original luxury SUV, and while the U.K.-made car is renowned for its impressive handling, even off-road, older models come with significant drawbacks, according to Black. He noted that as it ages, the model is prone to electric malfunctions, suspension failures and oil leaks.
"Range Rovers are wonderful to drive in their prime, but their maintenance in the long term will strip your pocketbook," he said.
3. Cadillac Escalade
MSRP: $93,995 to $173,895
The Cadillac Escalade carries an elite reputation, but Black said it doesn't justify its price.
"It's a Chevy Tahoe with a fancy badge, and you're paying way more for the same platform," he explained. Furthermore, the Escalade's reliability record isn't stellar, making it a costly and underwhelming choice.
4. Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
MSRP: $233,300 to $345,000
The Mercedes S-Class has some excellent touches like an OLED touchscreen that can personalize up to 800 settings, ensuring the car is customized to each driver's taste. When it comes to earlier models, however, the upkeep can inflate the price tag.
"Old S-Class models get really expensive with maintenance," Black explained, noting that as they age, S-Class cars can be prone to air suspension failures. Plus, the complex electronics can make for some costly repairs in the long term.
5. Audi A8
MSRP: $96,395
The Audi A8 -- a spacious luxury sedan whose all-wheel drive chassis makes it a dream to handle on even winding roads -- is a comfortable and stylish drive. But according to Black, its lack of reliability can make long-term ownership financially draining.
6. Porsche Cayenne
MSRP: $91,150 to $212,850
The Porsche Cayenne is a thrilling luxury SUV, but according to Black, early models suffer from reliability problems.
"Even though it offers a wonderful driving experience, the early models of the Cayenne face engine issues, heavy maintenance bills and expensive spares," he said, meaning costs can quickly add up long after the initial purchase.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article. MSRP range data was pulled from Car and Driver for 2026 models and subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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