If you’re looking for a car with frugal costs, low depreciation, a comfortable interior and all the extras a VIP could possibly need, an executive model could be for you. And with plenty of used models available for around the £15,000 mark, it’s not as expensive as you might think to be the boss of your daily commute.
Volvo S60– Conference suite comfort
Like Thor beating Loki in a game of hammer throwing, the Volvo S60 predictably triumphs in the comfort and safety stakes, delivering a smooth and sleek driving experience that can make long journeys fly by. Its godlike credentials don’t stop there; there are no fewer than seven turbocharged petrol and diesel options on offer. Safety credentials are predictably superlative, with a full five-star NCAP review, and a stunning slew of extras, including a collision warning system and whiplash protection.
We found: 2012 (62) Volvo S60 Drive SE 4dr
Audi A3– Sporty twists and turns
While driving some exec models might make you feel like you’re sitting through a three-hour PowerPoint about synergy, this sporty sedan has the style and charisma to see you through the grimmest of city tailbacks. With its strong styling and notoriously inspiring driving experience, it refuses to go out of fashion. If you’re planning on going the distance, we’d recommend a diesel; the 1.6-litre TDI offers a formidable 68.9 mpg, making it an ideal commuter car. There are a range of in-drive comforts to enjoy, including dual-zone climate control and sport suspension… if you’re looking for thrills, you’ve come to the right place.
We found: 2011 (62) Audi A3 1.6 TDI Sport 5 door
Kia Optima– Striking looks
After a drastic overhaul in 2011, the Kia Optima wowed the global car market with its swan-like emergence from a rather frumpy past. With its low-key elegance, this car creates a stunning first impression, and on closer inspection, things only improve. Inside, you can enjoy leather seats and robust, tactile controls. Its long, lean profile ensures exceptional passenger comfort, and even if you can only find a standard model, you can expect cruise control and reversing aids, which should help preserve that striking exterior for the onward journey.
We found: 2012 (12) Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi 2 Luxe 4dr
Mercedes-Benz C-Class– A Class Act
If you have to spend a lot of time behind the wheel, there’s a good argument for making sure it’s got a Mercedes-Benz badge on it. This small executive saloon exudes luxury and craft; from the second you ease into the cabin, the many refined details add up to an opulent overall impression. Its turbodiesel engine is available in a range of power options; all of which have enough clout to glide from 0-62mpg in well under 10 seconds. And if you needed another reason, it has a full contingent of stars from NCAP for safety.
We found: 2012 (12) Mercedes-Benz C ClassC250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport 4dr Auto
ŠKODA Superb– Cruise control
If you’re heading to a high-level executive brainstorm, the last thing you want is to feel every lump, bump and pothole in the road. Happily, the Superb flows serenely over road surfaces, meaning you’ll arrive for that meeting with your nerves soothed and a full cup of coffee in hand. What’s more, its roomy interior means you’ll be able to take a turn in the company carpool without the backseat turning into an involuntary game of Twister.
We found: 2014 (14) ŠKODA Superb1.4 TSI S 5dr
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