🚗 The Best Entry-Level Luxury Cars Arriving in Australia Soon – 2025 Guide
In 2025, Australian car buyers will be spoiled for choice as a new generation of entry-level luxury cars makes its way Down Under. With the gap between mainstream and premium shrinking, many manufacturers are launching affordable luxury vehicles aimed at first-time luxury buyers or those upgrading from high-spec mainstream models.
If you’ve been eyeing something stylish, well-equipped, and comfortable—without stepping deep into six-figure territory—this guide is for you. From sleek sedans to sporty crossovers and high-tech EVs, let’s dive into the best entry-premium vehicles coming to Australia soon.
🔝 What Defines an Entry-Level Luxury Car in 2025?
Before jumping into the list, it's essential to understand what qualifies a vehicle as “entry-level luxury” in today’s market:
Price Range: Typically between $55,000–$85,000 AUD
Brand Value: Comes from established luxury marques like BMW, Audi, Lexus, Volvo, Genesis, and Mercedes-Benz
Technology & Features: Includes advanced safety, connectivity, premium interiors, and driver assistance
Performance: Often equipped with turbocharged engines, refined ride, and better NVH control
Styling: Distinctive design cues, upmarket materials, and brand presence
Let’s explore the standout models launching (or expected to launch) in Australia soon.
🏁 1. 2025 BMW 1 Series (F70) – A Sharper Take on Premium Hatchbacks
Expected Arrival: Q3 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$60,000 AUD
BMW’s all-new 1 Series (F70) is finally getting its global debut, and Australia will receive it in the second half of 2025. Expect an upgraded interior with a curved infotainment display, minimalist layout, and more efficient turbocharged engines.
Highlights:
Refined 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines with mild-hybrid support
Available xDrive AWD in performance trims
New iDrive 9 system and voice-command updates
Increased boot space and rear legroom
Why it’s exciting:
The 1 Series brings proper premium badge appeal in a compact and practical hatch format—a strong contender for those wanting a city-friendly luxury car.
🏁 2. 2025 Audi A3 Sedan & Sportback (Facelift) – Sleek and Smart
Expected Arrival: Mid–Late 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$58,000 AUD
The facelifted Audi A3 gets refreshed exterior styling, more advanced cabin tech, and minor performance tweaks.
Highlights:
Refreshed front grille and lighting design
Audi’s new virtual cockpit plus with better resolution
Improved MMI interface and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Quattro AWD available in S-Line models
Why it’s exciting:
Audi’s A3 has always nailed the balance of sophistication, compactness, and quality—the 2025 update enhances this formula, keeping it sharp in a competitive segment.
🏁 3. 2025 Lexus LBX – Baby Lexus with Big Ambitions
Expected Arrival: Early 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$59,000 AUD
Built on the same platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross, the all-new Lexus LBX is a compact crossover that punches above its weight.
Highlights:
Hybrid-only powertrain (same as Yaris Cross Hybrid)
Premium materials, ambient lighting, and stitched dashboards
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 standard
Striking new design language with signature L-motif
Why it’s exciting:
It’s Lexus’ most affordable offering yet in Australia, but it doesn’t skimp on refinement or design, making it a compelling urban premium SUV.
🏁 4. 2025 Volvo EX30 – Small SUV, Huge Tech
Expected Arrival: Q1 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$59,990 AUD (Plus On-Road Costs)
Volvo’s EX30 is an all-electric compact SUV offering luxury styling, Google-based infotainment, and up to 480 km of range.
Highlights:
Available in single and twin-motor AWD
Google built-in infotainment (Maps, Assistant, Play Store)
Minimalist Scandinavian cabin
Fast charging up to 153 kW DC
Why it’s exciting:
The EX30 is arguably the most affordable luxury EV in Australia—perfect for tech-savvy urbanites looking for clean performance.
🏁 5. 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA (Facelift) – Coupe-Style Luxury Sedan
Expected Arrival: Late 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$72,000 AUD
The swoopy CLA returns with sharper styling, better tech, and enhanced powertrain efficiency. It offers a more emotional design than the traditional A-Class sedan.
Highlights:
New LED signature lighting and digital grille
Updated MBUX system with zero-layer interface
Optional 4MATIC AWD on higher trims
Mild hybrid 48V boost on all petrol engines
Why it’s exciting:
The CLA is for buyers who want style and luxury without needing a full-size sedan—perfect for younger buyers entering the Mercedes ecosystem.
🏁 6. 2025 Genesis GV60 (Updated) – Electric Luxury with Attitude
Expected Arrival: Mid 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$79,000 AUD
Hyundai’s premium arm, Genesis, has found success with the GV60—an electric luxury crossover that’s surprisingly fun.
Highlights:
Dual-motor AWD with Drift Mode
Face unlock and fingerprint start
Nappa leather, crystal gear selector
OTA software updates and facial recognition tech
Why it’s exciting:
The GV60 is loaded with flagship-level tech, but priced like an entry-lux model. A solid alternative to German rivals.
🏁 7. 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV – Stylish Plug-In with Italian Flair
Expected Arrival: Early 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$76,000 AUD
The Tonale brings bold design and plug-in hybrid tech to the entry-luxury SUV space.
Highlights:
1.3L turbo + electric motor = 206kW combined output
~60km EV-only range
Gorgeous cabin with driver-centric layout
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard
Why it’s exciting:
Alfa Romeo’s first hybrid offering brings Italian personality to a tech-focused segment. It’s luxury with a heartbeat.
🏁 8. 2025 Polestar 2 (MY25 Update) – Minimalist EV Excellence
Expected Arrival: Q3 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$67,000 AUD
The latest Polestar 2 brings rear-wheel drive standard, extended range, and enhanced infotainment experience.
Highlights:
New battery chemistry for better range (up to 654 km)
Android Automotive OS with continuous updates
Harmon Kardon sound, vegan interior options
Performance Pack with Ohlins suspension available
Why it’s exciting:
A compelling Tesla Model 3 rival with Nordic minimalism, long range, and robust build quality.
🏁 9. 2025 Mazda6 Inline-Six (RWD Platform) – The Return of Rear-Drive Mazda Luxury
Expected Arrival: Late 2025
Estimated Price: From ~$70,000 AUD
Mazda is gunning for BMW and Genesis with the new inline-six, rear-wheel-drive Mazda6 that blends performance, style, and premium fit-out.
Highlights:
Inline-six turbo petrol and diesel options
Longitudinal RWD architecture
Premium materials, ventilated seating, heads-up display
Dynamic driving balance, closer to 3 Series
Why it’s exciting:
Mazda is finally making the leap from premium-adjacent to true luxury, and the new 6 is a bold statement of intent.
🏁 10. 2025 Infiniti QX55 – Coupe SUV Style, Comfort and Presence
Expected Arrival: TBC (Likely Q4 2025)
Estimated Price: ~$80,000 AUD
The QX55 makes its re-entry to Australia with coupe-inspired SUV styling and Nissan-derived reliability wrapped in luxury.
Highlights:
2.0L VC-Turbo engine with variable compression
Wireless smartphone connectivity and Bose sound
Luxurious materials with sporty proportions
AWD standard
Why it’s exciting:
For buyers who want something different from the Euro mainstream, Infiniti’s swoopy SUV delivers flair and comfort.
🧮 Entry-Luxury Car Buying Tips for Australians
Here are some tips to help you navigate your purchase:
✅ Consider Ownership Costs
Even an “affordable” luxury car may come with high insurance, servicing, and tyre costs.
✅ EV or ICE?
Electric entry-luxury options are growing rapidly (EX30, Polestar 2, GV60). If you commute or live in urban areas, they’re great options with low running costs.
✅ Look for Value Trims
Not all base variants are barebones—look at tech, warranty, and interior quality. Genesis and Lexus often offer high standard spec.
✅ Safety First
Ensure the model has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating and includes essentials like AEB, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
📊 Comparison Table – Quick Specs Overview
Model | Type | Powertrain | Starting Price | Key Feature |
---|---|---|---|---|
BMW 1 Series | Hatchback | Petrol MHEV | ~$60K | New iDrive 9 |
Audi A3 | Sedan/Hatch | Petrol | ~$58K | Virtual cockpit+ |
Lexus LBX | Crossover | Hybrid | ~$59K | Safety System+ |
Volvo EX30 | SUV | Electric | ~$60K | Google OS |
Mercedes CLA | Coupe-Sedan | Petrol MHEV | ~$72K | MBUX Zero Layer |
Genesis GV60 | SUV | Electric | ~$79K | Face ID Unlock |
Alfa Tonale | SUV | Plug-In Hybrid | ~$76K | EV-only mode |
Polestar 2 | Sedan | Electric | ~$67K | Long range |
Mazda6 (RWD) | Sedan | Turbo Petrol | ~$70K | Inline-six |
Infiniti QX55 | Coupe SUV | Turbo Petrol | ~$80K | VC-Turbo engine |
🏁 Final Thoughts – Should You Buy an Entry-Level Luxury Car in 2025?
Absolutely. The 2025 lineup of entry-premium vehicles offers exceptional bang for your buck, often bundling flagship features, excellent ride quality, and brand prestige at a fraction of the cost of high-end luxury models.
Whether you’re after a tech-forward EV, sleek sedan, or compact SUV, there’s a compelling choice waiting for you. And with more value-driven trims being introduced, the barrier to entry is lower than ever.
Let the new wave of affordable luxury transform your garage in 2025.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *