Luxury on wheels: The most expensive cars of 2024 that redefine luxury
The world of luxury cars in 2024 continues to set new standards in luxury, technology and performance. More than just transportation, these vehicles are works of art, marvels of engineering, and the ultimate status symbols. From electrified innovations to roaring V12 engines, these dream cars meet the needs of those who demand the best. As the year draws to a close, let’s take a closer look at this year’s most expensive cars and reveal what’s worth their incredible prices.
Rolls-Royce Phantom: The pinnacle of prestige
Price: From £410,000
The Rolls-Royce Phantom continues to be a jewel in the automotive world. With a starting price above the average UK house price, this ultra-luxury sedan embodies unparalleled craftsmanship and character.
Inside, passengers are greeted by hand-stitched leather, plush carpeting and custom wood veneers. Buyers can customize nearly every aspect from paint color to interior design, including features such as a Starlight headliner that uses fiber-optic lighting to mimic a starry night sky. The Phantom’s 6.75-liter V12 engine provides a quiet ride, reinforcing its position as the ultimate luxury tank. Rolls-Royce also offers a unique ‘Gallery’ option that turns the dashboard into a canvas for carefully selected artwork.
Range Rover: an SUV of its own
Price: £104,000 (SE) to £192,000 (SV)
The new Range Rover is a sophisticated and versatile SUV. The latest model is larger, quieter and more luxurious, setting new standards in its class. The flagship SV model offers long-wheelbase comfort and is perfect for those who value legroom.
Standard features include a 13.1-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, and 20-way adjustable heated seats. The plug-in hybrid version guarantees efficiency and, at the same time, outstanding off-road capability, which is a hallmark of the brand. With its sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology, the Range Rover is perfect for those who want robust functionality without sacrificing luxury.
Mercedes-Maybach S680 First Class: Luxury redefined
Price: From £218,000
The Mercedes-Maybach S680 First Class takes luxury sedans to new heights. Designed for those who prefer to be chauffeured, the rear cabin is comparable to an airline’s first class suite. Features include individually reclining rear seats with massage function, refrigerator, temperature-controlled cupholders, and even custom champagne flutes.
The attention to detail is stunning, with the finest Nappa leather and hand-finished wood trim throughout. Under the hood, a 6.0-liter V12 engine ensures comfortable performance. The Maybach S680 is a vehicle that prioritizes comfort and elegance above all else.
Bentley Flying Spur: the grand tourer of dreams
Price: £173,500 to £245,000 (W12 Mariner)
The Bentley Flying Spur represents the pinnacle of British luxury. With a choice of powerful engines, including the legendary 6.0-litre W12, the Flying Spur combines exceptional performance with timeless elegance.
The interior is a masterclass in craftsmanship, with hand-stitched leather, intricate wood inlays, and even a customizable rotating display. Mulliner models feature 22-inch wheels and a panoramic sunroof to further enhance your experience. Despite its size, the Flying Spur is a true powerhouse, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
BMW i7 M70: emotional luxury
Price: From £163,000
BMW’s i7 M70 brings electrification to the flagship 7 Series, blending sustainability and performance. The i7 M70 has dual electric motors that produce 660PS and can accelerate from 0 to 60mph in just 3.7 seconds.
Inside the cabin is an ultra-modern sanctuary. Highlights include a huge 31-inch rear seat entertainment screen and BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system. Sustainable materials such as vegan leather and recycled plastic reflect the car’s eco-friendly ethos. The i7 M70 is the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and classic luxury.
Audi R8 V10 Performance Quattro: The thrill of a supercar
Price: From £171,000
As the world moves to electric powertrains, the Audi R8 V10 celebrates old-school performance. The naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine provides an exhilarating soundtrack and accelerates to 102 mph in just 3.2 seconds.
The Spider version features an electro-hydraulic convertible roof that opens in 20 seconds, allowing drivers to enjoy the thrill of open-top motoring. Inside, the R8 features Audi’s signature virtual cockpit, along with premium materials such as Alcantara and carbon fiber.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS: road-legal race car
Price: From £192,600
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is the ultimate iteration of Porsche’s iconic sports car. Designed with the racetrack in mind, it features a high-revving 525PS engine and aggressive aerodynamics, including a huge rear wing.
The car’s lightweight construction ensures breathtaking agility, and features such as rear-wheel steering and a race-tuned suspension system are a driving enthusiast’s dream. Despite its track focus, the GT3 RS is fully road-legal, combining performance with everyday usability.
Lexus LS: quiet elegance
Price: £92,000 to £127,000 (Takumi Nishijin & Haku)
Lexus LS offers a unique blend of luxury, reliability, and innovation. Its distinguishing feature is the craftsmanship evident in the elaborate Nishijin and foil trims, which are inspired by Japanese artistry.
Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 hybrid engine, the LS delivers gentle performance with excellent fuel efficiency. With its luxurious interior and advanced driver assistance features, the Lexus LS is a modest alternative to its European rivals.
Related: Jaguar’s Lightning Leap: Reinvention through Design and Discussion
Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo: Italian passion and performance
Price: £114,000 to £143,000
The Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo is a seductive blend of Italian style and raw power. The 3.8-liter V8 engine produces 580PS and propels the car to a top speed of 203mph.
The interior combines sporty elements with upscale materials, including leather upholstery and carbon fiber accents. The Quattroporte Trofeo is ideal for those looking for a high-performance saloon with a Mediterranean feel.
Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate: Farewell to greatness
Price: From £314,000
The DBS 770 Ultimate is Aston Martin’s final homage to the iconic grand tourer. Limited to just 499 units, this model is powered by a twin-turbo V12 engine producing 770PS. With a top speed of 311 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds, it’s a fitting farewell to the legendary nameplate.
From the hand-stitched leather seats to the carbon fiber accents, every detail exudes luxury. This collector’s item is more than just a car, it’s a piece of automotive history.
Why are these cars important?
The cars on this list are more than just transportation. They are symbols of status, engineering talent, and unbridled creativity. In a world where sustainability is becoming a key focus, many of these luxury cars incorporate cutting-edge hybrid or electric technology, proving that luxury and environmental responsibility can coexist.
Whether it’s the quiet elegance of the BMW i7, the raw excitement of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS or the timeless sophistication of the Rolls-Royce Phantom, each vehicle offers a unique interpretation of what it means to be extraordinary.
There is no doubt that 2025 will bring as much innovation to the luxury car industry as 2024.
So, which of these wonders would you choose? If money were no object, would you cruise around in a modest Lexus LS or roar around town in an Audi R8? One thing’s for sure: 2024 cars take luxury to thrilling new heights.
