Luxury on a Budget: High-end features available in economy cars

Once reserved for luxury cars, today even the most economical cars offer a range of high-end features

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For the longest time, high-end luxury features were exclusive to, well, luxury vehicles, and the rest of us just had to dream about them. Good news! Recently, advancements in technology and increasing competition in the automotive industry have changed all that. Today, even the most economical of economy cars offer a range of high-end features that were once reserved for those luxury brands. If you’re looking to treat yourself without breaking the bank, you’re in luck! Here’s a look at some of the top luxury features available now in economy cars.

Advanced Safety Features

Safety is a priority for all drivers, and advanced safety technology has traditionally been a hallmark of luxury vehicles. However, many economy cars now come equipped with cutting-edge safety systems, providing drivers with peace of mind at an affordable price.

2023 Toyota Corolla LE Hybrid
2023 Toyota Corolla LE HybridPhoto by Elle Alder

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

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Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA)

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

Product Recommendation: The Mobileye 630 system offers AEB technology for older cars, adding this high-end feature to your vehicle’s safety arsenal.

Touchscreen Infotainment Systems

Gone are the days when a basic radio was all you could expect in an economy car. Today’s affordable vehicles come equipped with intuitive touchscreen infotainment systems that rival those in luxury models.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

2025 Honda Civic Hatchback Hybrid
2025 Honda Civic Hatchback HybridPhoto by Sami Haj-Assaad

Large Touchscreen Displays

Voice Commands

Heated Seats and Steering Wheels

Luxury cars have long been known for offering supreme comfort, particularly during harsh winter months. In Canada, where cold weather is a major concern, heated seats and heated steering wheels are game-changers. What was once a luxury-only feature is now found in many economy vehicles, allowing drivers to stay warm without paying for a premium model.

Heated Front Seats

Many economy cars offer this option, though you may need to bump up to higher trims for some models. Some vehicles even offer heated rear seats.

Heated Steering Wheel

2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Noir
2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Noir includes heated rear seatsPhoto by Jil McIntosh

Keyless Entry and Push-Button Start

Keyless entry and push-button start systems have long been associated with luxury vehicles, providing convenience and a sense of sophistication. These features are now becoming standard in many affordable cars, offering a seamless experience for drivers who want a taste of luxury without the high price tag.

Keyless Entry

Push-Button Start

Premium Sound Systems

Audiophiles rejoice! Premium sound systems are no longer reserved for luxury vehicles. Economy cars are now equipped with high-quality audio systems that deliver an immersive listening experience, allowing you to enjoy your favourite tunes with crisp, clear sound.

Bose Sound Systems

Leather Upholstery

Leather seats have long been a symbol of luxury in the automotive world. While they used to be a premium upgrade, leather upholstery is now available in many economy vehicles, providing drivers with a stylish and comfortable interior.

Synthetic Leather Seats

It’s offered in economy cars like the Kia Soul and Hyundai Venue.

2025 Honda Civic Hatchback Hybrid
2025 Honda Civic Hatchback HybridPhoto by Sami Haj-Assaad

Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheels

Dual-Zone Climate Control

Dual-zone climate control, allows both the driver and front passenger to set their own preferred temperature settings. This feature is definitely becoming more common in economy cars, adding an extra layer of comfort and customization to the driving experience.

Dual-Zone Climate Control

Rear Vents for Passenger Comfort

Sunroofs and Panoramic Roofs

A panoramic roof or sunroof adds an element of open-air luxury to any vehicle, and it’s no longer a feature exclusive to high-end models. Economy cars are now offering this option, allowing drivers to enjoy a bit of extra light and fresh air.

Panoramic Sunroofs

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