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Luxury-On a budget

A weekly compilation of automotive industry and consumer news.

May 9, 2008 at 2:18PM

Luxury - On a budget

As Yahoo Autos reports, there are cars that prove you don't have to fork over big bucks to live the good life. The website features 10 models-Yahoo calls them luxury impersonators - that are "surprisingly luxurious for their humble badges, all of which can be equipped to impress for less than $30,000." The vehicles mentioned here, listed from lowest- to highest-priced, are 2008 models.

Volkswagen Jetta - The Jetta SE sells for $19,850.

Mazda3 - The Grand Touring version of this model comes in just over $20,000.

Chevrolet Malibu - This car continues to create a buzz. The 2LT version sells for about $23,000.

Honda Accord - Speaking of buzz, the new generation Accord also has created a stir. The 2.4 EX-L is $25,160.

Honda CR-V-This solid and compact SUV sells for $25,500.

Nissan Altima Coupe -The next best thing to Nissan's Z. Price: $25,770.

Saturn Vue - Yahoo calls this "the epitome of a luxury impersonator." Price is just under $26,000.

Hyundai Santa Fe - A cool SUV for $28,000.

Buick Lucerne - An upscale and sumptuous Buick for under $30,000.

Ford Edge - The SUV's SEL front-wheel drive version with premium package comes in just under $30,000.

Visit MotorMouth blog

Are you a fan of collectible or classic cars? If you are, then check out the MotorMouth blog at Startribune.com/cars. MotorMouth Kris Palmer, freelance auto writer and editor, who also puts together this section's Weekend Garage column every Saturday, blogs about vintage cars, the collectible auto scene and just about everything else that goes vroom. And, as with any good blog, you can participate. You can post comments and converse with others about a wide variety of vintage car topics.