SUVs and crossovers may dominate Australian roads today, but luxury sedans still hold a powerful appeal. They combine timeless elegance with cutting-edge technology, refined comfort, and world-class performance. For many Australians, especially those living in metropolitan areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, sedans offer a perfect blend of prestige and drivability without the bulk of a large SUV.
The modern luxury sedan market has evolved significantly. In 2025, buyers can choose from petrol, hybrid, and fully electric sedans, each catering to different preferences. Some sedans emphasise driver-focused performance, others focus on indulgent interiors, while many strike a balance between the two. Whether you’re seeking executive sophistication, sporty flair, or green innovation, there’s a luxury sedan waiting for you.
This in-depth guide explores the top contenders in Australia’s luxury sedan segment, breaking them down by brand, features, technology, performance, and value.
Defining a Luxury Sedan in 2025
Luxury sedans in Australia generally fall into two categories: mid-size and full-size. Regardless of size, several traits define them:
- Premium interiors: Expect leather upholstery, handcrafted materials, and advanced seat ergonomics.
- Technology integration: Digital cockpits, advanced driver-assist systems, and AI-driven infotainment are now standard.
- Performance engineering: Whether turbocharged, hybrid, or fully electric, these sedans deliver smooth, refined power.
- Brand prestige: Names like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Lexus, and Genesis carry weight in the Australian market.
- Comfort and refinement: Ride quality, cabin silence, and climate control systems are far superior compared to mainstream sedans.
Mercedes-Benz: Timeless Luxury with Cutting-Edge Tech
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The E-Class continues to represent executive refinement. In its 2025 iteration, it’s packed with advanced tech like augmented reality navigation, Level 2+ autonomous driving aids, and a luxurious cabin with customizable ambient lighting.
- Engines: Turbocharged 4-cylinders, inline-6 with mild-hybrid tech, and AMG performance variants.
- Standout Feature: “MBUX Hyperscreen” with AI-driven personalisation.
- Price Range in Australia: Around $110,000 – $160,000.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Often referred to as the “benchmark luxury sedan,” the S-Class sets the gold standard. It’s a chauffeur’s dream but equally enjoyable from behind the wheel.
- Engines: Inline-6 mild hybrids, V8s, and plug-in hybrids.
- Luxury Touches: Rear-seat entertainment, executive lounge seating, and Burmester 4D sound.
- Price Range in Australia: $240,000+.
BMW: The Driver’s Luxury Choice
BMW 5 Series
The new 5 Series embodies sportiness with luxury. Available as both a petrol and an all-electric i5, it appeals to traditionalists and eco-conscious buyers alike.
- Performance: Sharp handling, responsive steering, and a driver-centric cockpit.
- Technology: BMW Operating System 9 with iDrive touch-free controls.
- Price Range in Australia: $105,000 – $140,000.
BMW 7 Series
As BMW’s flagship, the 7 Series blends opulence with futuristic tech. In Australia, the fully electric i7 variant is drawing attention from luxury EV buyers.
- Highlight: 31-inch Theatre Screen for rear passengers.
- Driving Dynamics: Surprisingly agile for its size, thanks to rear-wheel steering.
- Price Range in Australia: $250,000+.
Audi: Understated Elegance and Technology
Audi A6
The A6 remains a sleek choice for professionals. It’s known for its minimalist interior, advanced driver assistance, and refined ride.
- Engines: Turbo petrols and mild hybrids.
- Tech Focus: “Virtual Cockpit Plus” and dual-screen centre stack.
- Price Range in Australia: $105,000 – $135,000.
Audi A8
Competing directly with the S-Class and 7 Series, the A8 is Audi’s statement of understated power.
- Interior: Clean, minimalistic design with superior craftsmanship.
- Luxury Tech: Predictive active suspension for ultra-smooth ride.
- Price Range in Australia: $220,000 – $260,000.
Lexus: Japanese Reliability Meets Luxury
Lexus ES
Known for supreme reliability, the ES is Lexus’s mid-size offering with hybrid efficiency. It’s a popular choice for buyers wanting comfort without German complexity.
- Powertrain: Smooth hybrid system ideal for urban drives.
- Luxury Elements: Whisper-quiet cabin, Takumi craftsmanship.
- Price Range in Australia: $75,000 – $95,000.
Lexus LS
The LS is Lexus’s answer to the S-Class, with bold styling and a hybrid powertrain.
- Notable Features: Shiatsu massage seats, handcrafted interior details.
- Strength: Reliability unmatched in the luxury segment.
- Price Range in Australia: $190,000+.
Genesis: Korea’s Rising Luxury Star
Hyundai’s luxury arm, Genesis, is steadily making waves in Australia.
Genesis G80
A direct rival to the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, the G80 is stylish, luxurious, and priced competitively.
- Highlights: Panoramic displays, premium audio, and plush seating.
- Pricing Advantage: Often undercuts European rivals.
- Price Range in Australia: $90,000 – $115,000.
Genesis G90 (coming soon to Australia)
Genesis’s flagship sedan, already successful in overseas markets, is expected to launch soon in Australia. It combines limousine-like comfort with competitive pricing.
Electric Luxury Sedans: The New Frontier
The shift toward electrification is strong in Australia. Luxury sedans are at the forefront of this trend.
Tesla Model S Plaid
- Performance: 0–100 km/h in under 2.1 seconds.
- Luxury Appeal: Minimalist interior with yoke steering and advanced software.
- Price in Australia: Around $180,000+.
Porsche Taycan
- Strengths: Incredible handling and electric performance.
- Luxury Factor: High-end interiors and customisable trims.
- Price Range in Australia: $160,000 – $350,000.
Mercedes-Benz EQS
- Highlight: One of the most advanced EV sedans with 700+ km range (WLTP).
- Luxury: Futuristic interior with massive Hyperscreen.
- Price Range in Australia: $270,000+.
BMW i7
Covered earlier under the 7 Series, it’s redefining luxury EV sedans.
Performance-Focused Luxury Sedans
For buyers who want their luxury car to double as a performance machine, these models shine.
- BMW M5: Sports car performance in a sedan body.
- Mercedes-AMG E 63 S: Thundering V8 with comfort for daily use.
- Audi S8: A discreet powerhouse.
- Maserati Quattroporte: Italian flair meets raw performance.
Interior Features That Define Luxury Sedans
- Advanced climate control: Multi-zone with air purification.
- Massage seats: Standard in most flagships.
- Sound systems: Bang & Olufsen, Burmester, and Mark Levinson rule the market.
- Digital dashboards: Fully customisable, often spanning across the entire dashboard.
- Smart connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and AI-based assistants.
Technology & Safety
Modern luxury sedans integrate the latest in technology and safety:
- ADAS: Adaptive cruise, lane centring, traffic jam assist.
- Night vision: Enhances safety in poorly lit Australian country roads.
- AI-based infotainment: Personalises music, lighting, and navigation.
- Crash safety: Flagship sedans consistently score 5 stars with ANCAP.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Luxury Sedan in Australia
When considering a luxury sedan, Australians should factor in:
- Budget: Mid-range luxury sedans start at $80k, while flagships can exceed $300k.
- Ownership costs: Insurance, premium fuel, servicing, and tyre replacement are higher.
- Resale value: Brands like Lexus and BMW hold value better.
- Technology preference: EVs vs petrol vs hybrids.
- Driving style: Some cars are chauffeur-oriented, others driver-focused.
Conclusion: The Future of Luxury Sedans in Australia
Luxury sedans continue to redefine what premium driving means in Australia. While SUVs dominate, sedans hold their ground by offering a combination of elegance, comfort, and technology that SUVs often cannot match.
In 2025, buyers can choose from a diverse lineup—German titans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, reliable Japanese luxury like the Lexus ES and LS, rising stars like Genesis, and futuristic EVs like the Mercedes EQS and Porsche Taycan.
For Australians who value sophistication, performance, and cutting-edge tech, luxury sedans remain a worthy investment.
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