Here’s a tempting combination of traits in a new-to-you ride: technology, luxury and great fuel economy. Travelling by luxury car is fantastic because you’ll arrive at your destination relaxed and at ease and look like a boss doing it, and fuel efficiency is great, because it leaves more money in your pocket for things of the non fuel-related variety, and means you’ll spend less time at the gas station lined up behind elderly lottery ladies before being upsold 73 varieties of car washes that are all fancy.

A wholesome combination, the fuel-efficient luxury car. So here’s a look at some of my favourites, how they stack up as a used-car buy, and how to shop smart for the ones that interest you.

2010 Lexus HS 250h, dashboard, 2013 Lexus CT200h dashboard. Click image to enlarge

Model: 2011 to 2013 Lexus CT200h / 2010 and 2011 Lexus HS 250h

Background Info: We’ll combine these two since they’re under-the-skin twins. The HS 250h was the four-door compact hybrid luxury sedan that enjoyed a short life that spanned 2010 and 2011. The CT 200h is a still-available hatchback model built on the same platform derived from the Toyota Prius. The Lexus Hybrid Drive system powers both units, slightly more aggressively in the HS, which got 187 horsepower to the CT’s 134. Common praise came for fuel mileage, a solid ride, more-than-adequate power output in the HS, powertrain smoothness and unique, functional interior. Outward visibility was also highly rated. The drive selector, which allowed these machines to be dialed into various calibrations like Sport or Eco was also appreciated. As hybrids, expect good all-around mileage that gets even better in stop-and-go driving. All the must-have goodies were on board, including Bluetooth, navigation, available LED lights, heated seats, automatic climate control and plenty more.

Inspection Notes: Brake hard from a moderate speed, noting any unwelcomed sounds or sensations. Any heavy lurching or ‘grinding’ sound effects could indicate a problem with the brakes or brake actuator, which should be inspected as they’re tied into the hybrid drive system. Confirm proper operation of all interior electronics, paying special attention to the navigation and infotainment system, and all digital readouts. Ensure the shifter works as expected. If it seems ‘sticky’, a broken or damaged spring mechanism inside may be the culprit. Signs of a pink fluid dripping down the side of the engine, or onto the ground beneath the vehicle could be related to a leaky or about-to-fail water pump that cools the inverter for the hybrid system, too.

As with any used hybrid, a full check over by a trained mechanic and hybrid technician should be considered mandatory ahead of your purchase. That inspection can reveal any hidden issues concealed in the computer system; also check the battery, electric motors and general hybrid drive system health. Purchasing a used hybrid without a qualified inspection is not advised.

Model: 2010 to 2013 Audi A3 TDI diesel

Background Info: The Audi A3 is solidly built, has a quality interior, looks athletic and classy, and has room for your things, your pets, and their things. All models of the previous generations are hatchbacks and get the VW Group 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, which is a bit of a torque monster and uses silly small amounts of fuel. A3 TDI owners typically rave about styling, build quality, comfort levels, and fuel efficiency. Most owners report confidence in the A3’s composure and handling at all speeds, too. Look for heated leather, navigation, a panoramic sunroof and more. Note that with the TDI engine on board, the A3 was only available with front-wheel drive. As it tends to go with diesels, this one should make a great long-distance highway cruiser that puts many miles between visits to the gas station.

Inspection Notes: Note that hard, inconsistent or ‘sloppy’ shifting from the DSG transmission may be caused by a faulty computer control or ‘mechatronics’ unit, which is basically the transmission’s brain. Issues like these are usually fixed with a quick and simple reprogramming.

The TDI engine seems to be largely free of troublesome issues, though a possible intercooler issue may cause icing that could choke the engine’s air supply and cause stalling out in cold weather. This was addressed by a service bulletin, as were minor issues with injectors and fuel pumps, in other TDI applications using this engine. Ask your local Audi dealer to be sure no recall or Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) work is outstanding on the A3 TDI you’re considering. You’ll just need the VIN number.

Other issues, though somewhat sporadic in their occurrence and reporting, may include leaky radiators and air conditioning systems that don’t air condition. A full pre-purchase inspection of the used A3 TDI you’re considering, at an Audi dealer, is a good idea for maximum peace of mind.

2010 to 2013 Audi A3 TDI diesel, 2009 to 2013 Acura TSX. Click image to enlarge

Model: 2009 to 2013 Acura TSX

Why Buy: It’s not too much money, has a ‘just-right’ blend of power, size and luxury, and should prove very reliable if well maintained. Look for Bluetooth connectivity, premium audio system options, xenon lights, automatic climate control, heated leather, navigation and more. Four-cylinder powered models (a V6 was available) got a sweet and snarly little 2.4L VTEC mill with a snudge over 200 horsepower. This engine came with automatic or six-speed manual transmissions. Yay!

Seems like the TSX got shoppers into the showroom with its promise of safety and long-term value, with some sporty driving dynamics helping to seal the deal. Owners report feeling safe, and most rate the performance, even with the four-cylinder engine, positively. The feature-to-dollar ratio, say TSX owners online, is also favourable.

More interested in the previous-generation (2004 to 2008) TSX? Many folks prefer it’s styling, and it’s available for even less money. Powertrains are very similar between the two generations, and other than an additional check for signs of moisture or discoloration in the headlight housings, the advised checks here can be applied to both generations.

Inspection Notes: A loud clunking noise when coming to a stop, or when just taking off, could be the result of an issue with the TSX’s front end, possibly relating to a ball-joint or strut assembly. Once proper operation of the stereo system has been confirmed, be sure to turn it off and listen for any signs of this sound. While you’re at it, note that any other popping, clunking or grinding sounds or sensations typically indicate a suspension problem of some sort. If in doubt, have a mechanic get the TSX you’re considering in the air for a check of the suspension. Driving at highway speed, ‘feel’ the TSX you’re considering for signs of vibration from the front of the car, possibly through the steering wheel. If you note any, an out-of-balance driveshaft might be the culprit.

Note that most shoppers should avoid models with heavy engine modifications, and note that lowered suspension may adversely affect the durability of the vehicle’s tires and certain suspension components.

Electronics checks should include the remote key fobs, ensuring the trunk release works properly, all interior illumination, and the memory seating function.

2009 to 2013 Acura TSX, 2011 to 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Click image to enlarge

Model: 2011 to 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

Why Buy: Because it’s one of the most fuel-efficient luxury cars going, and provides plenty of technology and fancy stuff for not a whole whack of cash. Look for premium THX audio, all of the luxury-sedan must-haves and plenty of space from this first-generation MKZ Hybrid. A 2.5L engine and hybrid drive system made 191 total horsepower, and an EV mode allowed for short, electric-only trips if you kept the speed down and throttle up. Owners say they enjoyed interior and exterior styling, as well as the slew of upscale features. Praise for overall value and the THX audio system round out the MKZ’s owner-stated pluses.

Inspection Notes: Spend some quality time with the MKZ’s onboard electronics, ensuring, among other things, that the THX audio system is sounding good and not suffering from any blown speakers. Hook up your Bluetooth. Try the automatic climate control. Check all steering wheel–mounted controls. Set an imaginary navigation destination and make sure the system begins routing. Do the seat heaters and coolers work? Some owners have reported failure of these components—apparently caused by a failure of the computer module that controls the system and not the hardware that runs it.

Question any steering pull, if present, which could indicate an issue with the vehicle’s alignment. Other warning signs of a bad alignment, which can adversely affect safety and mileage, include uneven wear across the treads of the tires.

Check all power windows and locks for proper operation, and try each interior door handle to be sure it’s working properly. Reports of broken door handles and failed locks and lock-rods aren’t uncommon.

A few reports of battery glitches are present online, though relatively inconclusive in nature. A full check by a Ford or Lincoln hybrid technician is strongly advised before your purchase for maximum peace of mind.

Model: 2010 to 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Bluetec diesel

Background Info: Few things on four wheels are as all-out classy as an E-Class, and few things on four wheels blend classy and efficient as well as an E-Class Bluetec. Rocking a 3.0L turbodiesel V6 with more torque than a handful of Honda Civics, drivers reported great mileage, pleasing performance rich with forward thrust and great overall refinement. As it tends to go with diesel engines, this one will make a great long-distance cruising machine with minimal stops for fuel. Look for all of the staple luxury-car must-haves like woodgrain interior trim and safety systems to watch your blind spots and position you within your lane. Power, performance, handling and ride comfort were all rated top notch by most owners on several forums. Favorite features included the ventilated seats and radar-guided cruise control.

Inspection Notes: Note any hesitation or delay when switching from reverse to drive. Assuming you change gears when the vehicle is stopped (as you should) any abnormal hesitation via the ‘shift by wire’ gear lever may be the result of a computer error, which can be easily reprogrammed to quicken the shift. Signs of any smoke, hesitation or roughness from the engine could indicate a problem with an injector or the turbocharger system—though this is unlikely on newer, low-mileage machines.

2010 to 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Bluetec diesel. Click image to enlarge

Plan to spend 20 minutes going through all electronics-related gadgets, including the push-button start system. Use each and every feature inside the vehicle that runs on electricity, including the windows, climate controls, seats, and the like. Ensure proper operation from the navigation system, COMAND interface, Bluetooth, audio system and all safety systems. Once you’ve completed checking everything over, check everything over again.

Then, look through the driver computer system for signs of any warning messages that could indicate a problem. Any messages that contain words like “MALFUNCTION”, “FAILURE”, “INOPERATIVE” or “SERVICE REQUIRED” or “LMFAO $$$$$” should be addressed ahead of your purchase. Note that in many cars like the E-Class, niggling electronics issues like these can be caused by a weak battery, which often results from infrequent, low-mileage drives that don’t allow full recharging. If these sound like your driving habits, invest in a battery tender and hook it up to your E-Class when it’s parked.