6 Used Luxury Japanese Cars That Are a Good Investment for Retirees
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Terence Loose
5 min read
Japanese vehicles, like Honda, Nissan and Toyota, are known for their quality and reliability. But they also have luxury lines — Acura, Infiniti and Lexus, respectively. These cars are more upscale, but often just as reliable, making them a good investment for seniors who want a little bling, but who also don’t want to trade quality time with family for expensive time with their mechanic.
We asked Alan Gelfand, owner of Hollywood, Florida’s German Car Depot and who is a also master mechanic with decades of experience working on all makes of luxury vehicles, to give us his top six picks of used luxury Japanese cars for seniors.
This body-on-frame SUV — as opposed to unibody construction — gives outstanding durability in a vehicle which is also filled with refined comfort features, Gelfand said. Based on the Toyota Land Cruiser, the Lexus GX 460 models (2014-2017) can rack up over 250,000 miles without major issues, he said. And while you won’t get the greatest fuel economy, the powertrain, powered by the V8 engine, is one of the most dependable systems in the automotive sector, Gelfand said.
He added that those with stiff necks will appreciate the elevated driving position in this SUV, which gives improved visibility. The SUV also has good off road capabilities for those wanting to do a little adventuring during their golden years.
Infiniti Q50
Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a sporty ride. Gelfand said the Infiniti Q50 gives retirees sports sedan handling for those who want more engaging driving experiences. They are also better than the newer models at keeping you from contributing to your mechanic’s retirement fund. “These models use a 3.7L naturally aspirated V6 instead of the twin-turbo setup found in later models, which reduces potential repair expenses,” Gelfand said.
These cars’ interiors might be more suited to seniors as well, said Gelfand. Interior controls of the 2016 to 2018 models feature larger buttons and more user-friendly operations than many competing models.
Lexus ES 350
Gelfand said that the Lexus ES 350 models made from 2016 to 2018 promise great value combined with impressive reliability. Proof? Properly maintain the 3.5L V6 engine and Gelfand said you can get more than 300,000 miles out of it. Importantly, the interior has supportive seats and interior comfort features that are kind to aging backs.
And despite the Lexus luxury, Gelfand said your Social Security is likely safe from major repair bills. “Repair expenses for these vehicles are typically 40% below the maintenance costs of equivalent European luxury sedans,” he said.
One reason is that these models feature the more traditional, intuitive controls that existed before Lexus implemented their sometimes-frustrating touchpad interface.
Acura RLX
Galfand said that the 2016 to 2018 RLX is the luxury market’s most valuable yet overlooked secret because its original price depreciation created tremendous used value.
“The standard V6 engine delivers smooth power output, which suits highway driving perfectly, while the interior soundproofing system creates a peaceful driving atmosphere,” he said.
Added to that is its lower maintenance expenses. Gelfand estimates maintenance of this car is 45% less than equivalent German luxury sedans. It also features broader door openings that help seniors with mobility needs during entry and exit, he said.
Lexus RX 350
This car, according to Gelfand, strikes an ideal balance between affordability and dependability. The 2015 to 2019 models feature contemporary security features without exposing users to advanced electronic systems found in contemporary models, he said.
“The elevated entry height of this vehicle works well for retirees who need accessible entry and exit features, while its rear storage area provides enough space for golf clubs and luggage without requiring difficult bending motions,” he said.
Another retirement savings protector is the car’s powertrain, which needs only basic maintenance to reach more than 200,000 miles.
Acura MDX
If you’re a senior who plans to have family visiting often, the Acura MDX (2017-2019) models provide three-row seating while still offering style and a compact feel compared to standard SUVs. “Many trim levels of these models come equipped with comfortable second-row captain’s chairs alongside the well-known durable J-series V6 engine,” said Gelfand.
And on the odd chance that something does go wrong, this luxury vehicle won’t cost you luxury prices at the repair shop, said Gelfand.
“The repair expenses for these luxury SUVs cost 30% to 35% less than European models, while maintaining good availability of replacement parts across the entire United States,” he added.
