Refined, Not Flashy: The Best Used Luxury Cars With Understated Appeal

The term “conspicuous consumption” has been around for decades, but it gained particular traction in the late 1980s and early 1990s, an era when greed was good, the stock market was booming, and yuppies were snapping up BMWs and Porsches in droves. While trends have evolved rapidly since then, many still equate wealth with flashiness, a stereotype fuelled by celebrity culture and social media influencers. With flashy jewellery and Lime Green Lamborghinis dominating our feeds, classic good taste often seems like a thing of the past.

But a new trend, quiet luxury, is making a comeback. It prioritises quality, sophistication and subtlety over ostentation and excess. The question is: how do you bring this refined aesthetic to the road, without an outrageous price tag?

Thanks to the latest data from AutoTrader, we’ve identified some used luxury cars that whisper good taste rather than shout for attention. For this list, we’ve focused on used cars with an average price under R600,000—models that offer premium comfort and presence without venturing into ultra-luxury territory.

Sleek sedans that fly under the radar

Infiniti Q50

The first entrant is a slightly unconventional choice, but the Infiniti Q50 presents a luxurious and compelling alternative to the ubiquitous BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. While Nissan’s premium brand is no longer officially available in South Africa, several Q50 models can be found on the used market, offering a range of engine options. The most common variant is the 2.0T, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 155 kW and 350 N.m of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. 

Other options include a 2.2-litre turbodiesel and a potent 3.5-litre hybrid V6, the latter producing an impressive 263 kW and 546 N.m. With an average price of R202,038, the Q50 offers an affordable entry point into something exclusive yet understated. However, buyers should note that with Infiniti no longer operating in South Africa, it’s worth checking with your local Nissan dealer regarding parts availability and servicing support.

Also consider: Lexus IS, Volkswagen Arteon

Audi A6 and Lexus ES

While the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class often dominate this segment, the Audi A6 and Lexus ES cater to business professionals who prefer to move with quiet confidence. Understated, tasteful, and sophisticated, both models offer superb build quality and impressive road manners. The Audi leans more toward performance and driving dynamics, while the Lexus stands out for its bulletproof reliability and polished reputation.

The ES is also available as a hybrid, with the ES300h achieving a claimed 4.6 L/100 km—an impressive figure for an executive sedan. While the four-cylinder engines in both models are capable, their coarser tone might not suit drivers used to the smoothness of a six- or eight-cylinder powertrain. The A6, depending on the generation, was offered with a wide range of engines—from four to ten cylinders. 

That said, the turbodiesel variants are generally the most sensible choices, praised for their balance of performance, economy, and refinement. In terms of price, the Lexus averages R464,334, while the Audi comes in at a far more accessible R239,928. However, there’s a notable trade-off: the average Lexus ES is four years old with around 55,082 km on the clock, whereas the typical A6 is 11 years old and has covered 150,974 km.

Also consider: Volvo S90, Lexus GS

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 

Often described as “the best car in the world,” each generation of the S-Class has helped shape the automotive industry, debuting innovations that have since become standard—everything from anti-lock brakes and airbags to stability control. But beyond the tech, the S-Class remains one of the finest cars money can buy, offering vault-like build quality, exceptional refinement, and a wide range of powerful engines.

In keeping with the quiet luxury theme, we’ll set aside the AMG variants and focus on the ‘standard’ models. At the top of the range sits the mighty 600. In the W221 and W222 generations, it delivered an astonishing 380 kW (390 kW in the W222) and 830 N.m of torque. Despite its immense power, the 600 moves with grace and composure, its restrained styling giving little away to passers-by. It’s a car with real gravitas—never flashy, but always commanding respect.

While the 600 is undoubtedly the crown jewel, the 320 CDI and 350 CDI diesels were far more common, offering strong performance and impressive fuel economy. The V8-powered 500 is also a solid middle-ground option.

As with any ageing flagship, maintenance won’t come cheap—but with an average price of R374,109, you’re getting near-Rolls-Royce levels of refinement for the cost of a new Polo. That said, with an average mileage of 137,618 km and a typical registration age of 16 years, it demands careful upkeep and a healthy maintenance budget.

Also consider: Lexus LS, Audi A8

Sophisticated SUVs with subtle presence

Lexus RX

The Lexus RX has never been a top seller in South Africa, but it enjoys immense popularity in the United States, where it’s consistently praised for its reliability. Built to exceptionally high standards, the RX is a rarity in the SUV world: a truly luxurious vehicle that doesn’t demand costly repairs and, with proper care, can easily cover hundreds of thousands of kilometres.

While it lacks the sporty character of a BMW X5, the seven-seat practicality of an Audi Q7, or the panache of a Range Rover, its understated image makes it ideal for those who prefer to keep a low profile. Refined, civilised, and superbly built, the RX was offered locally with a range of engines.

Per AutoTrader’s data, the average registration age is 13 years—pointing to the third-generation AL10 model, introduced in 2012. In South Africa, this includes the RX 350 (petrol V6) and RX 450h (hybrid-petrol V6), with average prices of around R269,614 and mileage of approximately 162,879 km.

Also consider: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Volvo XC90 and Volkswagen Touareg

For those seeking a luxury SUV that strikes a balance between presence and restraint, the Volvo XC90 and Volkswagen Touareg are compelling choices. Both cater to individuals who prioritise comfort, capability, and understated design over flashy badges and ostentation.

The XC90, with its minimalist Scandinavian styling, has become a favourite among the quiet luxury set. Its elegant design, refined interior, and practical seven-seat layout make it both tasteful and versatile. While Volvo’s recent focus on electrification means newer models are offered exclusively with petrol or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains, buyers looking at slightly older models can still find frugal turbodiesel options on the used market.

The second-generation Touareg was also offered with a petrol engine locally, but the majority of units sold were diesel-powered—typically with either a 3.0-litre V6 or a muscular 4.2-litre V8. The latest model continues with the 3.0-litre V6 as the sole engine option. With the added flexibility of a PHEV drivetrain and seven-seat configuration, the XC90 offers broader appeal. However, the Touareg’s strong brand recognition and Volkswagen’s extensive dealership network may be decisive factors for many South African buyers.

On average, the XC90 commands a higher price than the Touareg, at R426,419 versus R314,288. That said, the XC90’s average registration age is three years newer, and average mileage is significantly lower—128,730 km compared to 180,705 km.

Also consider: Land Rover Discovery, Hyundai Palisade

Nissan Patrol

The word “icon” is often overused in the automotive world, but in the case of the Nissan Patrol, it’s entirely justified. Revered for its rugged off-road capability, imposing presence, and legendary reliability, it may not boast the brand cachet of some rivals—but that’s precisely what appeals to the quiet luxury crowd. It offers serious ability and comfort wrapped in understated charm, making it ideal for those who prefer to venture off the beaten path without drawing too much attention.

The Patrol is particularly well suited to long-distance touring and heavy-duty use, earning it a loyal following among adventurers and overlanding enthusiasts. With an average registration age of 19 years, most used examples are from the late Y61 generation—less refined and plush than the V8-powered Y62 that followed, but still immensely capable. At an average price of R311,753, it represents a lot of vehicle for the money, even when factoring in the higher average mileage of 228,816 km.

Also consider: Toyota Land Cruiser

Are used luxury vehicles worth it?

While these vehicles represent impressive value and timeless appeal, it’s worth remembering that older luxury cars—no matter how well-built—require diligent upkeep. Premium materials, complex systems, and high-end engineering mean maintenance costs will almost always exceed those of a newer mainstream vehicle. But for those willing to stay on top of servicing and set aside a little extra for repairs, the reward is a driving experience that far surpasses anything at a similar price point.

“In South Africa’s evolving luxury landscape, we’re seeing a clear shift towards thoughtful ownership—where discerning buyers prioritise quality and longevity over flash and fleeting trends. The used luxury segment uniquely caters to this, offering access to vehicles that combine craftsmanship and character without demanding new-car premiums. It’s a testament to how modern luxury is defined by substance, not spectacle,” commented George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader.

AutoTrader Used Car Data