Most car shoppers start with a budget. Of course, they also have a list of features that they’re looking for—whether it’s cargo space for road trips, great fuel economy, or the latest safety innovations. But most people look for those features within the parameters of what they can afford to spend on a car.

In this series of articles we’re going to look at what our top sellers are within a given price range. Rather than using the starting price, we’ve run the average MSRP of each vehicle as configured by our clients. For this article we’ve taken an average MSRP of $45,000 to $54,999.
10. Ford F-150 (Average MSRP: $45,477)

Why we love it: Ford’s full-size F-150 pickup offers a suite of smart tow features including an 8″ productivity screen with towing information, Dynamic Hitch Assist and a Smart Trailer Tow Connector. Ford also has available box features like Stowable Loading Ramps and Remote Tailgate Release to help owners get the most out of the pickup box.
9. Mercedes-Benz C-Class (Average MSRP: $48,481)

Why we love it: Redesigned for 2015, the C-Class provides a larger, roomier interior with all the amenities you’d expect from a Mercedes-Benz. The base C300 Sedan comes with a 2.0L turbo inline 4-cylinder engine, while the C400 4MATIC has a 3.0L biturbo V-6; the top of the line AMG C63 boasts a 4.0L AMG biturbo V-8.
8. Ford Explorer (Average MSRP: $45,936)

Why we love it: The Explorer provides folding second and third rows that seat up to seven. AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control comes standard; upgrade to Intellgent 4WD for those family trips to the mountains. Ford also offers an EcoBoost 2.0L 4-cylinder or V6 engine for additional fuel economy.
7. Lexus ES (Average MSRP: $46,240)

Why we love it: The ES is available as a gas-powered 350 and a hybrid 300h. Both offer a comfortable, well-appointed interior, a smooth ride, and the latest in technology and gadgets.
6. BMW X3 (Average MSRP: $51,103)

Why we love it: The nimble X3 combines the supple interior of a luxury vehicle with ample cargo space and a responsive drive. Available safety upgrades include Head-Up Display, active blind spot detection and active driving assistant.
5. Acura MDX (Average MSRP: $50,413)

Why we love it: The seven-passenger MDX is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with the optional front crash prevention system. New safety features include lane-keeping assist and forward collision avoidance. Upgrade to the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive for constant monitoring that sends power to the wheels with the most traction.
4. Lexus RX (Average MSRP: $51,333)

Why we love it: Quiet and refined, the RX provides a smooth, comfortable drive and is available as a gas or a hybrid V6. Lexus is renowned for their hassle-free ownership experience and high resale values.
3. Audi Q5 (Average MSRP: $50,627)

Why we love it: With its available panoramic sunroof, sporty drive and luxurious interior, it’s no wonder that the Q5 remains a favorite with Cartelligent clients. A turbo four-cylinder engine comes standard and upgrades include a supercharged V6 and V6 turbodiesel.
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee (Average MSRP: $47,179)

Why we love it: The Grand Cherokee offers a roomy, comfortable interior, the classic good looks of a Jeep, and a solid performance both on and off-road. It is available with a 3.5L Pentastar V6 or a fuel-efficient 3.0L EcoDiesel V6.
1. BMW 3 Series (Average MSRP: $47,644)

Why we love it: The BMW 3 Series combines the style and handling the brand is known for with an array of features and an attractive price point. It is available as both a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic.

No matter what your budget is, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.