Best executive cars to buy 2025

Executive car buyers used to have it easy. There were a few premium car brands to choose from, and they each had a range of different-sized saloons. 

Now, there’s a huge range of executive car options from a variety of brands and buyers need to consider different bodystyles as well as whether to choose, petrol, electric, hybrid or even diesel. The very best executive cars still combine comfort with impressive performance and cutting-edge technology. The trick is finding the best one for you. 

For years, executive cars were the go-to for company car drivers, typically powered by petrol or diesel. But ever-rising Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) company car tax rates have made many switch to plug-in hybrid or fully electric executive models.

It’s not just company car drivers who want an executive car, though. Many private car buyers see these sleek premium-badged saloons, hatchbacks and estates as more stylish alternatives to the seemingly endless ranks of SUVs on the road. Thanks to the generous boot capacity, family-friendly cabin space and effortless motorway comfort a top executive car can fulfil a variety of roles.

With so much choice on offer, finding the right executive car model can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, our expert road testers have driven them all, going beyond the brochures to uncover what really makes them tick over hundreds of miles on UK roads. We’ve selected the very best executive cars below to help you choose your next one.

Compare the 10 best executive cars

The table below highlights our top 10 best executive cars available on the market, allowing you to compare Auto Express ratings, prices, boot capacity, and efficiency figures at a glance. Keep scrolling for our in-depth breakdown of each model…

1. BMW 5 Series

• Prices from £52,505
• The best executive car overall

Whether you opt for the regular BMW 5 Series or the fully electric BMW i5, the latest generation of BMW’s full-size executive saloon offers the same class-leading tech, excellent driving experience and top-class fit and finish that have made the 5 Series a staple of the executive car class for decades.

Dynamically, the 5 Series handles very well, despite the 530e and M5 plug-in hybrid models weighing 2,080kg and 2,445kg respectively. The quick steering and suspension manages the weight and controls body roll beautifully, even round the twistiest of B-roads. 

The brakes are also excellent, more than capable of stopping the heaviest BMW 5 Series models from motorway speeds in assured fashion. The only real caveat is that due to the sporty suspension, the big BMW isn’t quite as smooth or comfortable as its arch rival from Mercedes, the E-Class. You only really feel that at low speeds around towns and when it falls victim to the biggest speed bumps, however.

Prices for the BMW 5 Series start from around £52,500 and incrementally increase to over £110,000 for the BMW M5 powerhouse. If you’re a company car user, the i5 is your best option with a low 3 per cent BiK rate. This is followed by the 530e and, surprisingly, the M5 which both have the 9 per cent BiK rate due to their plug-in hybrid systems.

Inside the 5 Series, the cabin doesn’t feel too dissimilar to that of the pricier and more luxurious BMW 7 Series flagship. There are plenty of plush, comfortable materials which are topped off by an impressive 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and a 14.9-inch widescreen infotainment system running BMW’s latest iDrive software. However, the touch-sensitive controls can cause some annoyances when you’re attempting to navigate through the screens. 

There’s plenty of room for all the family, thanks to its spacious cabin and 520-litre boot.

“The latest BMW 5 Series is a staggeringly capable all-rounder. Comfortable, great to drive, and wonderfully luxurious inside.” – Alex Ingram, Chief Reviewer, who road tested the 5 Series in the UK

The main rivals for the 5 Series would be the Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6 which each bring something slightly different to the table

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2. BMW 3 Series

• Prices from £40,950
• Best for keen drivers

BMW takes a one-two in this list due to the 3 Series offering pretty much the same brilliant attributes as its 5 Series sibling. The driving dynamics are arguably better, there’s still an excellent, premium-feeling interior with plenty of technology and the Touring estate model offers even more practicality for most families.

When designing the latest 3 Series, BMW wanted to match the comfort of the Mercedes C-Class without losing any of the agility we expect, a tough task. Somehow, BMW accomplished it. 

Around corners the 3 Series tracks brilliantly allowing more excitable drivers to hit apexes with ease. Those of a more sedate disposition can enjoy the smooth-feeling controls and exemplary ride comfort from the new suspension damper technology. The brand also somehow managed to shed 55kg of weight from this 3 Series compared to the previous model. 

On motorways the BMW 3 Series is a very accomplished cruiser, with fuel economy decent enough, even on the entry level model. If running costs are your main concern, we’d avoid the M340i and M3 which offer around 34mpg and 28mpg respectively. The 330e plug-in hybrid officially manages 217mpg, though you’ll need to charge it often to achieve that. 

If a BMW 3 Series is on your wishlist then you will need to find at least £41,000 down the back of the sofa for the entry-level model, and if want more economy then you can get the 330e from around £47,000 and this also benefits from a 9 per cent BiK rate for those company car buyers. However, if you want a bit more fire from your BMW, the M340i with almost 380bhp will set you back just under £63,000 and if you want the super hot M3 you’re knocking on the door of £90,000. 

The interior of the 3 Series has been fitted with the same updated iDrive system as the 5 Series, a 12.3-inch driver’s instrument panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen, and many of the same premium materials. The only annoying detail is that some of the controls, such as those for the heated seats and climate control are now within the touchscreen, which can be a pain to operate on the go. 

”The 3 Series has always been great to drive, offering engaging handling and sure-footed road holding.” – Shane Wilkinson, Senior Content Editor, who road tested the 3 Series in the UK

If the BMW 3 Series isn’t quite what you’re after, then it may be worth considering the Audi A5 or the Mercedes C-Class as alternatives. The C-Class is a really high quality customer and the new A5 has excellent technology, though neither drives as well as the BMW

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3. Audi A6 e-tron

• Prices from £50,155
• Best electric executive car

Audi’s long-awaited electric executive car finally feels like the real deal. The A6 e-tron ditches half-measures and hand-me-down platform technology for something brand new and convincingly premium. 

It’s sleek, sharp and refreshingly different to the new SUVs manufacturers keep churning out. That alone might be enough to tempt buyers bored of the same old high-riding family cars. Just don’t expect anything too radical inside or out in terms of design.

There’s no shortage of numbers to impress the spreadsheet jockeys. The 0-62mph sprint is as quick as 4.5 seconds in the 4x4 quattro model, 270kW charging speeds and 463 miles of quoted range from the 100kWh battery version are all impressive, although that range figure may be hard to hit in the real world. 

The way the A6 drives is the most surprising. Despite its size, it feels lighter on its feet than electric rivals, and refinement is excellent. The A6 simply gets on with the job, without the artificial gimmicks some competitors insist on. That said, if you’re after a bit of driver engagement, look elsewhere. This car majors on calm composure, not character.

As with most EVs at this level, pricing feels optimistic, especially in the top trims, but the A6 fights back with top-drawer efficiency and genuinely usable range. Running costs should be kinder too, thanks to a low 3 per cent Benefit-in-Kind rate for company car drivers and strong predicted residuals. It makes a Mercedes EQE look like an expensive way to go not very far.

Inside, the A6 does a nice line in modern tech. The screens are sharp in their resolution and bright, while the core controls are mostly intuitive. The layout feels a touch over complicated in places and the menus could use a clearer hierarchy. 

Rear-seat space could be better and the boot’s not the biggest, but the Avant estate version sorts that second problem out nicely. The result is a car that’s clever, composed and highly competitive in the executive EV class.

”Audi took its time getting an all-electric executive car together, but the wait seems to have been worth it. This sleek, comfortable, refined, and tech-filled model hits all the right notes – tight rear seats notwithstanding.”  – Jordan Katsianis, Senior Staff Writer, who road tested the Audi A6 e-tron

Alternatives to the Audi A6 e-tron include the BMW i5, which feels sharper to drive, and the Mercedes EQE, which prioritises comfort more. Both offer similar range and tech, but neither match the A6 e-tron’s understated appeal

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4. Mercedes E-Class

• Prices from £55,710

The Mercedes E-Class is a luxurious and tech-packed saloon that excels in terms of comfort, making it a top choice for long-distance driving. It’s refined, stylish, and spacious, but not without its flaws. The latest generation aims to improve on the previous model’s strengths and it largely succeeds. Though, there are still areas for improvement.

Behind the wheel, the E-Class delivers a smooth, serene ride, especially when equipped with the optional air suspension. The handling is competent but not sporty, and it lacks the dynamic edge of rivals like the BMW 5 Series. 

The E-Class still keeps its composure well on winding roads, and passengers will appreciate the ample cabin space that results from the car’s generous dimensions. If you are considering the plug-in hybrid models, it’s worth noting that while the brakes are effective, the pedal feedback can be inconsistent at times and doesn’t give the same level of confidence as when driving some of the alternatives.

The E-Class impresses with its efficiency, especially the E 220 d diesel, which offers a strong 58.9mpg - proving there’s still a place in the market for a good diesel. The plug-in hybrids, like the E 300 e, further improve things with impressive electric-only ranges of up to 71 miles meaning you could do a lot of your trips without using any fuel at all. 

The hybrid variants are quite a bit pricier but when it comes to company car tax, they deliver a temptingly low tax bracket.

Inside, the tech-heavy cabin is great in many respects but not without its issues. The Superscreen dashboard, with its trio of touchscreens, is impressive but can feel overwhelming. 

The quality of the materials, however, lives up to Mercedes’ reputation, and the tech features – including massaging seats and voice activation – certainly add to the appeal. Still, it might be a little too gadget-centric for some traditionalists, who may miss the more understated luxury of older Merc models. Its 540-litre boot is a major plus, however, the hybrid versions do lose some of this space due to the batteries.

”The Mercedes E-Class is something of a lifeline for buyers needing a car that can travel huge distances in comfort and without having to stop often for fuel.”  – Dean Gibson, Senior Test Editor, who road tested the Mercedes E-Class in the UK

If the Mercedes E-Class doesn’t float your boat, the closest competitors are the Audi A6, which offers a high level of tech, and the BMW 5 Series, which excels in the handling department. Neither quite matches the E-Class’s comfort and luxury

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5. Tesla Model 3

• Priced from £39,980
• Best for efficiency

The Tesla Model 3 might look a bit plain externally but it feels futuristic the moment you step inside. 

Whether you go for the rear-drive version or one with twin motors for all-wheel drive, the Model 3 delivers serious pace, with 0-62mph times dipping as low as 2.9 seconds in the Performance trim. 

Handling is tight and agile, although the steering feedback is numb and can be hyperactive at times, while the brake pedal doesn’t give much back to the driver. Refinement has taken a big step up, with road noise now noticeably quieter at speed than the previous model. 

Then there’s the range of up to 390 miles in the Long Range model, or 436 in the rear-wheel drive long-distance version - all genuinely usable thanks to Tesla’s slick energy management and pre-conditioning tech.

Running costs are a real Tesla Model 3 strong suit. In our tests, a pre-facelift Long Range model returned an impressive 4.4 miles per kilowatt-hour, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network makes long trips easier and faster than most rivals can manage. Just be warned: if you opt for the larger wheels, you’ll knock a chunk off your range.

Company car drivers benefit from a low 3% Benefit-in-Kind rate, although road tax now applies to EVs. 

Inside, the Model 3’s cabin is put together well and feels genuinely spacious, but the heavily screen-based controls won’t suit everyone. The lack of indicator stalks feels like a gimmick too far, and there’s still no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. 

If you’re willing to make a few compromises in favour of tech and speed, the Model 3 still feels like it’s a step ahead of most rivals in the compact executive saloon class - particularly if you’re focusing only on EVs.

”The Tesla Model 3 is one of the best electric cars around. It’s practical, high-tech, and boasts great performance and range for a competitive price.”  – Ellis Hyde, News Reporter, who road tested the Tesla Model 3 in the UK

If the Tesla Model 3 isn’t for you, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers a smoother, more refined drive, while the Polestar 2 stands out with a more premium interior. However, the Tesla beats both with better efficiency, longer range, and unrivalled charging convenience

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6. BMW i4 

• Prices from £51,860

The BMW i4 combines all the expected BMW qualities with the modern edge of electric performance. It's a polished machine, offering a dynamic drive that channels the brand’s renowned ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ ethos but in an EV package. Its futuristic design may not be to all tastes but it’s still unmistakably a BMW.

On the road, the i4 impresses with its range of up to 373 miles in the eDrive40 variant, putting it comfortably ahead of many competitors. It accelerates smoothly with the eDrive40 reaching 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds, while the M50 model slashes that to an exhilarating 3.9 seconds. Handling is a strong suit, with precise steering and excellent grip that makes the car feel more like a petrol-powered BMW than a heavy EV. The comfort levels are impressive, particularly in the adaptive suspension-equipped models, which absorb the UK’s plentiful road imperfections really well.

In terms of running costs, the i4’s electric powertrain provided a solid 3.6 miles per kWh in our real-world testing. However, it’s priced at almost £52,000, making it more expensive than some rivals like the Tesla Model 3. 

Charging is relatively quick, with all models capable of 10-80% charge in under 40 minutes at rapid chargers, while home charging will take 11 to 13 hours, depending on the model.

Inside, the i4 offers a premium experience with high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system. However, rear legroom might be a concern for taller passengers, and while the 470-litre boot is decent, it’s not the most spacious in its class. Still, for those seeking an electric car with BMW’s trademark driving experience, the i4 is a top choice.

”It's not just keen drivers who will be impressed with the i4, because the Gran Coupe oozes quality and is packed with the latest on-board technology, while a decent range and useful rapid charging ability add to its appeal as a superb all-rounder.”  – Ellis Hyde, News Reporter, who road tested the BMW i4 in the UK

If the BMW i4 doesn’t quite do it for you, the Volkswagen ID.7 serves up lounge-like comfort and loads of space, while the Tesla Model 3 nails range and charging ease but the BMW's the one that's most exciting to drive

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7. Mercedes C-Class

• Prices from £45,120

The Mercedes C-Class strikes a tempting balance between luxury and practicality in the compact executive saloon class. It offers a premium driving experience with just a few considerations for buyers to keep in mind. 

Behind the wheel, the C-Class turns in a smooth and composed ride, though it’s worth noting that the larger wheels on some models can make progress feel a bit firmer, especially on choppy surfaces. 

The handling is responsive, and the steering offers a good level of feedback, making the car enjoyable to pilot through corners. While not exactly a sports car, the C-Class feels agile for its size. 

The C 200 and C 220 d, with their 7.3-second 0-62mph times, might feel a bit sluggish compared to rivals, especially when pushed hard. However, they are still perfectly quick enough for everyday driving. If you want more performance, the C 300 d comes in with a much quicker 5.7-second sprint to 62mph, while the C 300 e plug-in hybrid is only slightly slower at 5.9 seconds, but it offers the added benefit of a 68-mile electric-only range. 

On the running costs front, the C-Class offers decent efficiency, especially with the plug-in hybrid. Regular charging of the C 300 e will significantly reduce fuel consumption, and the 6% Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rate makes it more affordable for those company car drivers. By way of comparison, the C 300 comes with a hefty 36% BiK rate so probably won’t feature on too many company car lists. 

Inside, the C-Class impresses with a premium feel and features many high-quality materials. You’ll find leather upholstery and polished wood accents. The 12.3-inch digital display and 11.9-inch touchscreen dominate the dashboard, providing easy access to the intuitive MBUX system and responsive voice control. 

The seats are comfortable with plenty of space up front, though rear passengers might feel a bit cramped on longer trips. The 360-litre boot is practical for daily use, but it’s smaller than the space in some rivals.

”The latest Mercedes C-Class saloon has given buyers looking for a compact executive car much to think about. It offers sharp styling, heavily inspired by its bigger E-Class sibling, outstanding levels of comfort and strong on-board technology.”  – Shane Wilkinson, Senior Content Editor, who road tested the Mercedes C-Class in the UK

The C-Class competes with rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Alfa Romeo Giulia. Both offer strong performance and style, though neither match the C-Class for comfort

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8. Volkswagen ID.7

• Prices from £51,585
• Best for value

The ID.7 feels like the first electric Volkswagen built with long-distance driving in the front of the engineers’ minds. It’s more than just a big hatchback with a big battery, this is VW finally proving it knows how to build a serious EV for grown-ups.

Despite tipping the scales at over two tonnes, the ID.7 never feels unwieldy. The steering is light but predictable, and although there’s some lean in corners, the car stays composed and stable on a motorway. 

In Comfort mode, the ride is soft and floaty, though things firm up nicely in the Sport setting. A rear-mounted 282bhp motor drives the rear wheels, giving it a smooth, rear-biased feel - like you’re being pushed along. The standard Pro version does 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds, while the heavier Pro S takes 6.6.

What really makes the ID.7 stand out is its efficiency. The Pro S has a huge 86kWh usable battery and a claimed range of up to 437 miles, yet on a long mixed run we managed 3.3mi/kWh. Charging is quick, too, with speeds of up to 200kW. That makes this one of the few EVs that can genuinely rival a diesel when it comes to covering big distances with minimal faff.

It’s expensive to buy, starting at more than £55,000, but with the Benefit-in-Kind tax set at just 3 per cent, it’s an appealing choice for company car drivers after something sleek and understated. 

The cabin is minimalist by VW’s standards, with a huge 15-inch screen and loads of rear space, though the slider controls for volume and temperature remain a weak point. Still, the ID.7 feels calm, mature and quietly capable — a proper flagship that ditches the gimmicks and focuses on what matters.

”In terms of its cabin, technology and general driving experience, the ID.7 easily justifies its price tag. The VW has every right to be considered in the same sentence as cars like the Tesla Model 3 – as well as bigger rivals costing considerably more.”  – Richard Ingram, Deputy Editor, who road tested the Volkswagen ID.7 in the UK

The ID.7 isn’t alone in the electric executive car game – as mentioned previously, the i4 offers impressive handling, while Tesla nails tech, but neither balances comfort and practicality like the VW

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9. Porsche Panamera 

• Prices from £90,055
• Best for performance

The Porsche Panamera is a car that combines refined luxury with serious performance. Whether you're cruising effortlessly down a motorway or attacking country roads, it manages to deliver both comfort and thrills, though not always in equal measure.

As you would expect from the German brand, on the road the Panamera delivers an incredible driving experience. The range of the E-Hybrid plug-in models is up to 57 miles on electric power alone which can be good for short trips if you remember to keep it topped up. 

Handling is sharp, and despite its size and weight, the Panamera feels agile, especially when you're pushing it on twisty roads. The most potent models, like the Turbo S E-Hybrid, take things to another level, with a 0-62mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a mind blowing 771bhp. The ride quality is also impressive, though higher-spec models with big tyres can produce a lot of road noise.

Running costs are what you might expect for a high-performance luxury saloon. Fuel economy is decent, especially for a plug-in hybrid, with official figures quoted as 235.4mpg but it’s unlikely a normal driver will ever see that figure in the real world and if you're using the car for longer trips where the battery runs out, you’ll see efficiency figures dip considerably. 

For company car drivers, the Panamera’s low emissions make it an attractive choice with as low as 16 per cent BiK, especially in the hybrid models, with emissions as low as 23g/km. 

Inside, the Panamera offers a sleek and well-equipped cabin that’s full of tech. The 520-litre boot is practical enough for most needs, though not class-leading. The seats are supremely comfortable especially if you order one with the upgraded ‘comfort seats’, and the infotainment system is easy to use once you get the hang of it. All in all, the Panamera combines luxury, practicality, and performance in a way that few can match, though you’ll pay a premium for the privilege.

”Unless you’re craving that extra sportiness, the base Panamera ticks all the right boxes, while the GTS version offers more than enough of a sharper edge and the hybrid versions are great for business users looking for a sporty exec.”  – Alex Ingram, Chief Reviewer, who road tested the Porsche Panamera in the UK

The Porsche Panamera has few direct rivals, but alternatives include high-performance versions of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. For more power, consider the BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG E 63 or even the luxurious Bentley Flying Spur

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10. Audi A5 

• Prices from £41,980

Audi has shuffled its naming strategy – what was previously the A4 saloon is now the A5. Don’t be fooled into thinking this signals something drastic, though. It’s more of a rebrand than a reinvention, with the new A5 effectively replacing the outgoing A4 but adopting a sleeker five-door Sportback body style as standard.

On the road, the A5 goes more for composure than excitement. The 2.0-litre diesel with 201bhp feels like the sweet spot, pulling confidently and delivering a 0-62mph time under eight seconds, though you’ll need quattro all-wheel drive for the quicker 6.9s sprint. 

It cruises effortlessly at speed and feels solid through corners, but the steering is light and lacks real feedback, especially compared to the communicative steering of a BMW 3 Series. Comfort depends heavily on spec – larger wheels and sport suspension make the ride firm, while the standard setup with smaller rims is much more forgiving.

Efficiency is a mixed bag. The diesel officially returns up to 58.9mpg with CO2 as low as 125g/km, which helps company car drivers, though the petrols barely touch 43mpg and emit more CO2. Mild-hybrid tech is there, but unless you’re in Eco mode, it rarely does much work on its own. Until the plug-in hybrid arrives, rivals offer stronger low-tax options for fleet customers.

Inside, the A5 makes a strong case for itself. Fit and finish are excellent, with slick digital displays and solid-feeling materials throughout. There’s decent space for four adults, though anyone in the back taller than six feet might start grazing the roof. 

Boot space is 445 litres (417 for the diesel), which is usable if not class-leading, but the hatchback layout makes it easier to live with than traditional saloons. It’s not the most exciting car you’ll drive this year, but if you’re after a polished, premium all-rounder, it does exactly what Audi does best.

”The experience behind the wheel won’t tempt keener drivers, but the A5 doubles down on being a high-quality, solid and sensible car with smart looks and better legroom (although not headroom) for rear passengers.”  – Paul Barker, Editor, who road tested the Audi A5 in the UK

The A5’s closest executive rivals remain the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class. The 3 Series excels in its handling, while the C-Class offers a more refined ride. The Audi A5 stands out with its blend of style and practicality, offering a more understated but still appealing alternative.

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How we choose the best executive cars

From a road tester’s point of view, choosing the best executive car is about making sure the vehicle delivers across a wide range of important areas. These models really have to excel to meet the high demands of customers paying premium prices. 

Our expert road testers assess all the factors that matter most to someone who spends a significant amount of time in their car, ensuring we identify the best options that combine comfort, practicality, and performance.

Driving

The driving experience is the foundation of any great executive car. We test how each model handles a range of conditions, from tight city streets to long-distance motorway journeys. Comfort is key, and we focus on suspension, seat support, and cabin quietness to ensure that the car provides a smooth, composed feel on the move. The best executive cars are not only responsive but also relaxing, making them ideal for long hours behind the wheel.

Tax and running costs

Cost is an essential consideration, particularly for those using an executive car as a company vehicle. Our testers evaluate the potential company car tax costs based on emissions and list price as part of the overall cost of ownership. A great executive car offers premium features without a hefty tax bill, so we make sure to highlight those models that strike the best balance of luxury and long-term affordability.

Fuel efficiency is another critical aspect we examine. Executive cars are often used for long commutes and business trips, so we assess how each model performs in real-world driving conditions. Fuel economy is more important than ever, and we ensure that the cars we recommend manage to offer both power and economy without compromising performance.

Practicality and quality

While luxury is key, practicality is also important. We evaluate boot space, rear seat room, and overall storage options to ensure the car fits into daily life. Executive cars should be capable of transporting both passengers and luggage with ease, making them versatile enough for business and personal use.

The interior is where an executive car really makes an impression. We assess how well the cabin is designed, focusing on user-friendly technology, premium materials, and comfortable seating. A high-quality interior with intuitive tech ensures that every journey is a pleasant experience, whether it’s a quick trip to the office or a long-distance drive. The best executive cars combine elegant design with practicality, ensuring a refined yet functional cabin.

Once our road testers have assessed all of these aspects — driving experience, costs, efficiency, practicality, and interior quality — we compile the information to provide a comprehensive evaluation of each model. By weighing up all these factors, we ensure that the executive cars we recommend offer the best all-round package for those looking for performance, luxury, and real-world practicality.

What is an executive car?

This was once a very straightforward question to answer. You had your executive saloons, such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, then you had your compact executive saloons, such as the BMW 3 Series. Today, the variety of options has multiplied.  

Cars such as the Peugeot 508 and Skoda Superb all have aspirations of upsetting traditional executive car offerings such as the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series. The best of these models offer most of the necessary quality and tech, and only really lack the premium badge.

Even without dipping into the SUV class, where executive-car buyers will increasingly find tempting options, there are more body styles available to executive-car drivers than ever. As well as the traditional saloons, there are the usual estate versions on offer, and beyond that things start to get interesting.

Coupes such as the BMW 4 Series offer similar engine ranges to their saloon counterparts for similar tax and running costs, while looking and driving that bit sharper. Many also come in convertible guise for open-air motoring. Then there's the rise of the four or five-door coupe, typified by cars such as the Audi A7 Sportback and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.

The usual cohort of German executive-car manufacturers now has plenty of other challengers to face, especially the incoming wave of pure-electric models that qualify for executive-car status. 

With the executive-car market so strongly reliant on business and company car buyers, EV powertrains are a huge draw because of the lower associated Benefit-in-Kind company car tax. Diesel and petrol powertrains are still popular for private buyers, but plug-in hybrid and electric are now the default choice. If you're willing to take the plunge into EV territory, the BMW i4, Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 offer sports car-rivalling straight-line performance, acres of space and very low everyday running costs.

How you can choose the best executive car

There are plenty of executive cars on the market, but each has its own pros and cons for buyers to consider. On this page we’ve picked our top executive options - covering a wide range of shapes, sizes, prices, and engines. 

The demands of the market are changing, though, which means not everyone’s after an executive saloon or estate. Have a look at our guides to the best luxury or family SUVs, best long distance cars, or the best electric cars, for a wider view of what’s on offer. 

A top executive model will be comfortable on a long journey but still able to entertain its driver on a twisty road. When you take your test drive make sure you sample it in different types of driving because a top executive car should excel across the board. 

We expect a good quantity of advanced safety equipment as standard with lots more desirable options available to those with deep enough pockets. Keep an eye on the price when adding those optional extras because they really can push the price up at this level.  

Think about practicality as well because space in the back will be important if you’re regularly carrying passengers - especially clients or colleagues. Compact executive models like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class will not have the same roomy back seats you get in full executive models like the larger 5 Series or E-Class. 

With many executive cars still employing the saloon bodystyle, the boot space can be quite low and long - forcing you to lean inside to retrieve items. If you need more flexible carrying capacity, one of the five-door hatchback options could suit you better - or maybe an SUV.

Searching for something a bit more special? Read our list of the best luxury cars...