5 to Drive: Affordable Luxury

Is it time to reward yourself for all the hard work you’ve been putting in at the office lately? Perhaps you deserve a new car. But what to buy? For sure you want something with the latest luxury and technological gadgets—these days, “turn-by-turn navigation” has advanced beyond your buddy giving you directions from the passenger seat. And, of course, you’ll also want a car that fully integrates your MP3/iPod player with the car’s audio system.

We’ve gathered five affordable cars—four sedans and one 4-door sports car—that are not only thoroughly modern and luxurious, but also fun to drive. Because, not only do you want to show the world you’ve “made it,” but you might as well let them know you’re not boring, either. So come take a ride with us; you just might be surprised how good of a car can be had for so little money.

Click here to watch the 5 to Drive: Affordable Luxury video.

2009 Acura TSX (MSRP $28,960)

Don’t dismiss the TSX just because it’s Acura’s least-expensive model; the redesigned-for-2009 TSX is a bonafide luxury sports sedan. Want the absolute latest in techno wizardry? Order the $3100 Technology Package, which includes a navigation system, a concert-level Panasonic/ELS sound system, Bluetooth connectivity and XM real-time traffic and real-time weather information.

But the Acura TSX isn’t just about keeping the techno-geeks happy; Acura’s TSX also appeals to sporting enthusiasts, those who prefer the twisty route versus plugging along on the Interstate. Its 2.4-liter 4- cylinder features i-VTEC variable valve timing and is a high-winding gem, with 201 bhp arriving at 7000 rpm. The TSX can be fitted with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic at no extra cost.

Although the ’09 TSX is slightly wider, longer and a bit heavier than the ’08 model, it hasn’t lost the agile handling characteristics that make it a fun-to-drive favorite. The new electric-assist power steering, which aids fuel economy (EPA rating of 20/28 mpg city/highway), offers surprisingly good feedback.

The TSX’s shape was refined for ’09, with sharper lines and Acura’s now-signature “power plenum” grille. The thoroughly modern interior greets the driver with comfortable, supportive front seats, a grippy steering wheel, excellent materials and more buttons than you can count.

For those who crave even more performance, Acura will offer the TSX with a 280-bhp V-6 for the 2010 model year.

Five Reasons to Buy:

1. Affordable

2. Good fuel economy

3. Fun to drive

4. A tech-geek’s dream

5. All-new design for 2009

2009 Lexus IS 250 (MSRP $31,980)

In terms of cars that people aspire to own, Lexus ranks near the top of the list. Not only is this Japanese brand revered for its build quality—remember, Lexus is owned by Toyota—but it’s also known for building some of the most luxurious, smoothest-riding cars on the road today.

Unlike most entry-level cars, the Lexus IS 250 exudes class and elegance. Nowhere is this more apparent than within its elegant-yet-sporty interior. Of course the materials are first-rate, but it’s the design, layout and tactile feel of the controls that give a sense you’re in a far more expensive car.

If there’s an area where the IS 250 doesn’t stand out from its competition, it’s in the power department. Sure, its 2.5-liter V-6 is super smooth, but with only 204 bhp and 185 lb.-ft. of torque, it’s definitely not explosively quick.

Handling, on the other hand, is an IS 250 high point. Steering and suspension tuning walk a fine line to deliver enthusiast driving capabilities as well as a well-damped ride, while Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) keeps the stability system in check. For an extra $3630, you can opt for an all-wheel- drive version of the IS 250.

Tell someone you bought a Lexus and they’re sure to be impressed. Not only did you buy a luxurious, fun-to-drive car, but you also made a smart purchase.

Five Reasons to Buy:

1. Gorgeous interior

2. Sports-sedan handling

3. Upmarket styling

4. Lexus quality

5. All-wheel drive available

2009 Mazda RX-8 Grand Touring (MSRP $31,670)

Mazda’s RX-8 stands out as sportiest of this group. As a matter of fact, due to its small, rear-hinged passenger doors, it’s considered a “4-door sports car.” Those unique doors lead to a cockpit that can easily fit four adults, despite the RX-8’s serious intentions.

Aside from the 4-door sports car badge, what really makes Mazda’s RX-8 stand out from the crowd is its Wankel rotary engine. This eerily-smooth powerplant produces 232 bhp and absolutely loves to rev to its 9000 rpm redline. That’s good, because with only 159 lb.-ft. of torque on tap, you’ll need to reach high into the engine’s powerband to get full acceleration. Luckily, the slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission makes going through the gears a joy, not a pain; a 6-speed automatic is available for those who don’t care to shift for themselves. The Wankel is a bit thirsty at the pump, with an EPA rating of 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway.

As you would expect of a 4-door sports car, the RX-8 offers outstanding handling. Sticky tires, well- snubbed suspension, powerful brakes and a rear-drive layout combine for a driving experience that’s sure to keep your adrenaline pumping many years after the new wears off. And for true enthusiasts, the RX-8’s new- for 2009 R3 handling package makes the car even more driver-focused.

Five Reasons to Buy:

1. Superb handling

2. Rear-hinged doors ease entry

3. Smooth rotary engine

4. Crisp shifter

5. New styling for 2009

More at Road & Track

Slideshow: 5 to Drive Affordable Luxury

Buying a new car? Start browsing now!