Luxurious Sedans of 2008, the luxury sedan segment was a battleground of prestige, performance, and high-end comfort. Automakers were pushing boundaries with advanced technology, premium materials, and powerful engines — all wrapped in elegant design. Whether chauffeured in the back seat or gripping the steering wheel, owning a luxury sedan meant you had arrived.
Let’s take a nostalgic drive back in time and explore the most luxurious sedans of 2008 — cars that weren’t just vehicles, but statements of success and style.
What Made a Sedan “Luxury” in 2008?
Luxury sedans of 2008 were defined by:
Exquisite materials: Leather, wood, and brushed aluminum finishes
Advanced tech: Navigation systems, adaptive cruise control, premium sound systems
Smooth, quiet rides: Enhanced suspension systems and sound insulation
Prestige: A badge that symbolized status and engineering excellence
Let’s dive into the top contenders that ruled the luxury scene in 2008.
1. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Model Highlight: S550 / S600
MSRP (2008): Starting around $86,000
The S-Class was the benchmark for luxury. With its whisper-quiet cabin, elegant design, and cutting-edge tech like Night View Assist and DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, it set the standard for the competition.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Massaging, heated, and ventilated seats
Rear-seat entertainment system
Adjustable air suspension
2. Lexus LS 460
MSRP (2008): Starting around $61,000
Lexus combined Japanese reliability with high-end comfort in the LS 460. It featured an ultra-smooth V8 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and legendary quietness.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Self-parking system
Mark Levinson premium audio
Impeccable build quality
3. BMW 7 Series
Model Highlight: 750i / 750Li
MSRP (2008): Starting around $76,000
The BMW 7 Series was for those who wanted performance with their plushness. It was tech-forward, with iDrive control, real-time navigation, and voice-activated functions.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Dynamic Drive system (active suspension)
Rear reclining seats in long-wheelbase model
Driver-focused performance
4. Audi A8
Model Highlight: A8L
MSRP (2008): Starting around $71,000
The Audi A8 offered understated luxury with top-tier engineering. Quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, and a stunning minimalist interior made it a refined executive ride.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Full aluminum body construction
Bang & Olufsen sound system
Plush interior with real wood accents
5. Jaguar XJ
Model Highlight: XJ8 / XJR
MSRP (2008): Starting around $65,000
With its classic British styling, the Jaguar XJ was the go-to sedan for those who favored tradition and charm. Beneath its graceful curves was a powerful V8 and lightweight aluminum frame.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Wood-trimmed dash with analog clock
Powerful yet elegant ride
Sporty XJR variant with supercharged engine
6. Cadillac DTS
MSRP (2008): Starting around $43,000
The Cadillac DTS catered to the American luxury buyer — big, bold, and incredibly comfortable. It was a popular choice for both executives and chauffeured services.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Spacious back seat
Magnetic ride control
Bose audio and heated/cooled seats
7. Acura RL
MSRP (2008): Starting around $46,000
The Acura RL offered high-end features at a slightly lower price point. It was equipped with SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive), tech packages, and a refined interior.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Real-time traffic navigation
Active noise cancellation
Excellent reliability and resale
8. Infiniti M45
MSRP (2008): Starting around $49,000
Sporty and luxurious, the Infiniti M45 was the sleeper hit of the luxury segment. It packed a powerful V8, high-quality leather, and user-friendly technology.
✅ Luxury Standouts:
Rear active steering (on Sport model)
Intelligent key with push-button start
Rich wood and leather interior
Luxury in 2008 vs. Now: What’s Changed?
In 2008, many of the features considered luxurious — like heated seats, Bluetooth, or a rear camera — are now standard in mid-range vehicles. However, back then, these features represented innovation and exclusivity.
Then vs. Now Comparison:
| Feature | 2008 (Luxury-Only) | 2025 (Now Common) |
|---|---|---|
| Heated/Cooled Seats | Available in high-end sedans | Standard in mid-trims |
| Navigation Systems | Optional tech packages | Built-in or smartphone-based |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Exclusive to luxury sedans | Available in compact cars |
| Soft-Close Doors | Only in S-Class & 7 Series | Still luxury-exclusive |
Conclusion: 2008 Was a Golden Era for Executive Sedans
Looking back at the luxurious sedans of 2008, it’s clear that this era laid the groundwork for the modern luxury experience. These vehicles weren’t just about transportation — they were about presence, innovation, and indulgence.
Whether you were behind the wheel of a German performance machine or gliding quietly in a Lexus, luxury in 2008 meant refinement, status, and unparalleled attention to detail.
If you’re a collector or enthusiast, many of these models still turn heads today — proof that true luxury never goes out of style.
