The Most Affordable Luxury Vehicles -- Which is the Best Buy?

There’s no denying it -- the 2021 Cadillac CT5 is one of the best luxury sport sedans available today. Even at the base level, it wins with plenty of power, a classy look and feel (both inside and out), and enough technology to appeal to any generation. When put head-to-head against the top contenders on the market, the 2021 Cadillac CT5 doesn’t disappoint. It compares favorably to the wildly popular Mercedes-Benz C-class, taking the edge in value with a larger infotainment display, similar safety features, and a smaller price tag. It couldn’t get any better, could it? It could. Say hello to the Diamond Sky package. 2021 Cadillac CT5 Diamond Sky Package: An Overview What is the Diamond Sky package? It’s a special edition package available for the 2021 Cadillac CT5, and it’s a potential game-changer for those looking to set themselves apart when purchasing a luxury sedan. Here are a few of the highlights of the Diamond Sky package, which upgrades both the look and comfortability the 2021 Cadillac CT5 delivers: Custom Diamond Sky Metallic paint job Unique 19” alloy wheels with a Diamond Cut/Midnight Silver finish 19” all-season, run-flat tires Blue brake calipers Brembo® V Performance front brakes Heated steering wheel Heated, ventilated driver and front-passenger seats Sky Cool Gray leather seating with Jet Black accents Alloy sport pedals In essence, you’re getting an exterior design that only a handful of folks in the world will have the pleasure of sporting on their daily commute. Top that off with extra comforts like heated seats and a heated steering wheel, and you’re sure to be enjoying yourself more in the car then when you’re sitting on your sofa. When you consider that the 2021 Cadillac CT5 already blows drivers away with plenty of available driver-assist features, a 10” infotainment display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Diamond Sky package is the luscious cherry on top. 2021 Cadillac CT5 Diamond Sky Package: Pricing Now that you know everything that comes with the Diamond Sky package, it’s time you found out how much it’ll cost to add this special edition bundle to the 2021 Cadillac CT5. For starters, the Diamond Sky package is only available on the Premium Luxury trim of the CT5, which starts at $44,290 MSRP. Then, to include the Diamond Sky package, you’ll tack on an additional $3,890. Considering all of the cosmetic and comfort upgrades that it entails, it seems like a small price to pay. 2021 Cadillac CT5 Diamond Sky Package: Release Date Believe it or not, the Diamond Sky package just became available for the 2021 Cadillac CT5. It was not originally available upon the vehicle’s release back in 2020, but became an option in early 2021. So now, when you’re imagining your new CT5, don’t forget about the opportunity to elevate the level of luxury with the Diamond Sky package. The 2021 Cadillac CT5 was already the star of the show, and the Diamond Sky package makes it shine even brighter.

By most standards, the Cadillac Escalade is considered the cream of the crop when it comes to luxury SUVs. There’s no way for the company to improve on the vehicle that’s set the standard for SUVs since 1999, right? Not so fast. As it turns out, Cadillac took things a step further with the 2021 Escalade (and many of their other offerings) with the Platinum trim. As if the Escalade wasn’t already the perfect mixture of luxury and functionality, the latest model features a trim that’ll blow you away. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: Why the Platinum Trim? Even with the base model, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is a show stopper. With an exciting combination of modern technology and upscale class, it delivers a powerful punch while still maintaining an unprecedented level of elegance. And then there’s the Platinum trim, which takes the Escalade’s style and sophistication and turns it up to 12. It obviously costs more than the standard 2021 Cadillac Escalade, but it’s more than worth the price of admission for those who see this luxurious SUV as a status symbol as well as a reliable means of transportation. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: What’s New? In case you didn’t know, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade underwent a complete redesign, marking the fifth generation of the luxurious SUV. Although we won’t go into specifics just yet, keep in mind that this redesign included exterior changes, a focus on adding tech to the interior, spruced-up comforts for drivers and passengers alike, and a new powertrain option. As if the Escalade wasn’t already an eye-opener, the new 2021 model takes it to a new level with style, sophistication and class. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: Price Let’s not sugarcoat this -- the 2021 Cadillac Escalade isn’t cheap. Starting at $76,195 MSRP, the base 2021 Escalade certainly won’t fit into anyone’s budget. That sentiment isn’t any less true for the Platinum trim, which will cost $99,995 at its simplest form. The price only goes up from there based on the additional features and packages that are thrown in. With all of that said, if the money part of the equation works, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum trim is well worth the investment given its long list of added comforts and luxuries. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: Engine/Performance While the 2021 Cadillac Escalade won’t save you much money or time at the pumps, it certainly brings the heat when it comes to power and performance. Featuring either a 6.2L V8 engine or a turbo-diesel 3L inline-six, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade packs quite the pack. The standard V8 engine creates 420 horsepower and features Dynamic Fuel Management, a system that reduces cylinder usage to save fuel when in cruise control. Both powertrains are connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Now standard on the 2021 Escalade is the automatic start/stop, a feature that turns the engine off when the car is idling and then turns it back on when the driver’s foot comes off the brake. This feature can be disabled, but can also have a noticeable impact on fuel economy and eco-friendliness. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: Safety/Technology Let’s not downplay the performance of the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, but the safety and technology are where it truly hits its stride. It all starts with the curved 38-inch combined infotainment display and gauge cluster that’ll have you thinking you’re at the controls of a spaceship. The display truly is a beauty to behold, flowing across the dashboard with layers of technological sophistication. Even on the base model, Cadillac packs a AKG Studio sound system into the 2021 Escalade. Step up to the Platinum trim, and you’ve got yourself a top-of-the-line 36-speaker system that’ll get you believing you’re front row at your favorite band’s first post-COVID concert. That all sounds great, right? The tech inside the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is phenomenal, but the peace of mind that comes from having such a wide array of safety features is invaluable. The Escalade already comes equipped with top features like automated emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision alert. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: Other Top Features Based on what you’ve read so far, can you really ask for more? Well, with the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum, the list of features just keeps going and going. On the inside, Cadillac prioritizes comfort with an exciting amount of luxurious touches. From the 16-way adjustable, full semi-aniline leather seating, to the leather-wrapped instrument panel, to the rear seat entertainment system with dual 12.6” LCD HD screens, the fun never seems to stop. To top it off, you’ll also have Sirius XM radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth integration, and a wireless phone charger to ensure you endless entertainment options. Cadillac didn’t forget about the exterior with the Platinum trim, though. You’ll also get 22” laser-etched alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, a panoramic power sunroof, chrome roof tails, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. No matter where you look, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum delivers a premier experience. 2021 Cadillac Escalade: The Verdict There’s no denying that the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum is costly -- $99,995 MSRP isn’t cheap, and that’s before any potential optional add-ons. However, with all of the extra bells and whistles it comes with, it’s hard to deny the value the Platinum trim delivers to its drivers. With the Escalade Platinum, you’re getting the power, performance and advanced technology that you expect from the base Escalade along with all of the comforts of Cadillac’s top-of-the-line luxury. With the superior seating and upholstery, decked-out sound system, upgraded infotainment system and connectivity, and the increased exterior flare, there’s no reason to count out the Platinum trim if it’s within your budget. The price tag can be intimidating, but you need to consider the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum if you have any interest in being the envy of all your family and friends.

The 2021 Cadillac CT4 is General Motors’ last remaining compact luxury sedan. Though most manufacturers have shifted their focus toward exclusive CUVs and SUV production, Cadillac understands there are still enthusiasts out there who prefer the sportier driving dynamics of a proper saloon. The deft handling, agility and nonexistent body-roll of the CT4 are aspects that a CUV with a heavier curb weight and higher center of gravity simply can’t replicate. The CT4 was built for enthusiasts who believe that driving isn’t merely a chore of day-to-day operations, but rather a spirited adventure each time you climb behind the wheel. 2021 Cadillac CT4 Exterior Styling One glance at the 2021 CT4, and it’s adamantly clear that this isn’t your grandfather’s Cadillac. With a distinct flair that’s undeniable from every angle, the CT4 oozes sport, luxury and sophistication with distinctive sheet metal characterized by clean lines and sharp angles. The most striking feature of the CT4’s exterior design is undoubtedly its vertical LED daytime running lights that seamlessly flow into standard LED headlamps—forming a wishbone-inspired shape. Faux vents emerge from the lower half of the DRLs, resulting in a front fascia that is distinctly Cadillac in appearance. The rear of the car is also inherently unique, with a decklid design that incorporates a duckbill spoiler into the sheet metal—leaving no doubt about its sporting intentions. Standard LED taillamps mimic the headlights wishbone-inspired shape, providing uniformity and consistency in overall design. 2021 Cadillac CT4 Interior Since the beginning, Cadillac has always been among the industry leaders in interior luxury and sophistication. The CT4 doesn’t stray from the mold, providing a cabin that will make you feel like royalty while nestled inside. The soft and supple leather seats provide the comfort you’d expect from Cadillac, while the bolsters provide just enough sport to keep you from sliding during spirited driving. Unique interior color themes include Jet Black with Jet Black accents, Whisper Beige with Jet Black accents, Cinnamon with Jet Black accents, Sangria with Jet Black accents and Sky Cool Gray with Jet Black accents. The CT4 comes standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and an eight-speaker sound system. In higher trims, a 14-speaker Bose premium audio system is available. Perhaps the most striking interior appointment is the CT4’s 12-inch digital instrument cluster—a feature that was never available in the Cadillac ATS, which the CT4 replaced. With customization capabilities and multiple display options, the digital cluster is equally intuitive as it is aesthetically pleasing. 2021 Cadillac CT4 Safety and Driver Assistance Technology Standard Safety and Driver Assistance Features: Automatic Emergency Braking Forward Collision Alert Front Pedestrian Braking, HD Rear Vision Camera Safety Alert Seat LED Reflective Windshield Collision Alert Rear Park Assist Available Driver Awareness Plus Package includes: Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert Rear Cross Traffic Alert Following Distance Indicator Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning IntelliBeam auto high-beam assist (Requires Cold Weather Package or Climate Package) Available Driver Assist Package includes: Adaptive Cruise Control Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking Reverse Automatic Braking (Requires Technology Package, Driver Awareness Plus Package and Climate Package) 2021 Cadillac CT4 Powertrain Options A 2.0L twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque comes standard on the 2021 Cadillac CT4 Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport trims. A more powerful 2.7L Dual-Volute Turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque is available on the Premium Luxury, while the V-Series utilizes the same powertrain with more aggressive tuning. 2021 Cadillac CT4 Trim Levels The entry-level model is the CT4 Luxury, which is available in both RWD and AWD configurations like all trims. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is included standard in addition to Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Safety Alert Seat and LED Reflective Windshield Collision Alert. The next step up is the CT4 Premium Luxury, which upgrades the Luxury model’s 17-inch wheels to larger 18-inch exclusive alloys. Full-leather seats with perforated inserts replace the leatherette seating surfaces in entry-level configuration. LED ambient lighting, auto-dimming mirrors and rainsense wipers are additional creature comforts that surely won’t go unnoticed. The Premium Luxury is also the only CT4 trim level with the exception of the V-Series where you can get the larger 2.7L Dual-Volute turbocharged engine—delivering an impressive 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Those who prefer more aggressive styling should opt for the Sport trim, which adds exclusive dark accents, performance grilles, fascias, rockers, taillamps and a unique spoiler to give the CT4 and more imposing presence on the road. The Sport isn’t merely all bark and no bite either, as more aggressive bolstered seats, available Brembo front brakes and performance run-flat tires make the CT4 even more invigorating to drive. The V-Series is for enthusiasts who truly want to squeeze every ounce of performance and excitement from Cadillac’s compact sedan. The 2.7L Dual-Volute turbocharged four-cylinder yields an invigorating 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque in the CT4-V, which is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. To effectively put that power to the pavement, the CT4-V is fitted with a performance suspension with Magnetic Ride Control, a limited-slip rear differential and a performance traction management system with Launch Control. The V-Series will also be available with Super Cruise in early 2021. 2021 Cadillac CT4 Exterior Colors Summit White Black Raven Diamond Sky Metallic (Premium Luxury only) Velocity Red Satin Steel Metallic Evergreen Metallic Shadow Metallic Wave Metallic Garnet Metallic Dark Moon Blue Metallic Crystal White Tricoat Rift Metallic Infrared Tintcoat 2021 Cadillac CT4 Pricing In entry-level configuration, the 2021 Cadillac CT4 RWD Luxury starts at $34,390 after destination and delivery. AWD Luxury models start at $36,990. Premium Luxury RWD models start at $38,590 with the 2.0L turbocharged engine. With the larger and more powerful 2.7L powertrain, the starting MSRP is $42,490. In AWD configuration, those starting figures increase to $41,790 and $45,690, respectively. RWD Sport trims start at only $39,690—a tremendous value for a sedan that delivers this level of luxury and performance under $40,000. AWD Sport models start at $42,290. The enthusiast-oriented V-Series is available in both RWD and AWD configurations, starting at $45,890 and $46,990, respectively.