For years and years, the huge executive saloon was the golden grail of company cars, with its combination of size and status signalling your victorious ascension up the corporate hierarchy.
However, the introduction of various specialized versions, as well as the tremendous popularity of the SUV, has diminished the appeal of these vehicles. When you put your business gear on, though, you’ll see that these sober-suited saloons make a lot of sense.
They certainly look the part and also drive well, with the majority of them, including rear-wheel drive, being a popular choice among enthusiasts. Even better, they’ll save you a dime in benefit-in-kind (BIK) costs since they have lesser asking prices and CO2 emissions than their SUV counterparts.
Here are some of the top 10 executive car picks in alphabetical order:
1. Audi A6: A6 50 TFSIe Sport Quattro
The Audi A6 isn’t the most entertaining car on the road, but its combination of sharp design, quiet refinement, and an interior overflowing with cutting-edge tech gives more than enough board-room accolades. The TFSIe models come with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder or 3.0-litre V6 engine coupled to an electric motor that can travel 43 miles in zero-emissions mode.
2. BMW 5 Series: 530e SE
Few vehicles have retained their ground in the company car hierarchy as successfully as the BMW 5 Series. For decades, go-getting executives who want to dress to impress have preferred the large BMW. The Bavarian big shot is also fun to drive, thanks to its exciting rear-drive handling and a selection of engines that combine efficiency and power.
3. Genesis G80: G80 2.2D Premium Line
Hyundai’s premium sub-brand has done well in the United States for years, but this is the first time it has attempted to break into Europe. It’s also not a horrible first effort. With a delicate ride and vault-like isolation from the outer world, the large Korean machine focuses on comfort and finesse.
4. Jaguar XF: XF D200 R-Dynamic S
Despite being ahead in EV charge with its I-Pace, Jaguar’s other models, including the beautiful XF, have lagged behind in terms of electrification. Mild hybrid assist is now available on its 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, but there’s no plug-in version. As a consequence, corporate customers will pay extra tax, with the BIK rate on even the most cost-effective D200 R-Dynamic S reaching 30%.
5. Lexus ES: ES 300h Premium Edition
The Lexus ES is an overlooked four-door executive saloon competitor with a lot of allure, particularly if you appreciate excellent epic low-speed refinement and build quality above everything else. It also has a striking appearance, and the luxuriously fitted inside provides optimum comfort.
6. Mercedes Benz E-Class: C300e AMG Line
The E-Class, a long-time rival to the BMW 5 Series, adopts a much more mature approach to its executive express tasks. It’s not as engaging as the 5 Series, but it comes with a more comfortable ride, reduced noise levels, and a more premium interior.
7. Skoda Superb: Superb iV 1.4 TSI PHEV SE Technology
The Skoda Superb may appear to be out of its depth in comparison to the premium-branded competitors that make up a large portion of this list, but it can easily hold its own.
This car not only looks good, but it also drives well and feels firmly made on the interior, with more space than other cars on this list. It’s also fun to drive, with gripping and accurate handling and a smooth ride, particularly when equipped with the adaptive dampers that are optional.
8. Tesla Model S: Model S Long Range
This pioneer electric luxury sedan has lately received a slew of updates, including a classier and more durable cabin. Importantly, the Long Range version will now go over 400 miles on one charge, and you’ll have accessibility to Tesla’s Supercharger network, as with other Teslas.
9. Volvo S90: S90 T8 Recharge R-Design
Volvo has beaten its premium competitors to the punch by making its flagship saloon available solely as a plug-in hybrid. The S90 T8 Recharge now has 445bhp and a range of over 50 miles thanks to a more powerful 141bhp electric motor and a larger 18.8kWh battery that complements the twin-charged 2.0-litre battery.
10. Volkswagen Arteon: Arteon 1.4 TFSIe R-Line
The rakish Arteon, which is just a Skoda Superb dressed up in a fashionable suit, has plenty of curb appeal when compared to the pricier vehicles here. Even better, the Skoda’s 1.4-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid motor was added as part of a recent redesign, giving it an even more enticing option for budget-conscious buyers.
