Best Used Executive Car
The competitive executive sector is a great place to pick up a used bargain, with loads of ex-fleet models around, which is the best choice?
Winner: BMW 5-Series
(2003 to 2010) Prices: £8,000 to £30,000
A brand new 5-Series has arrived, but the model it replaced remains our favourite used choice in this sector. In fact, if you can live with the knowledge that you’re driving a car which is no longer in production, it’s more attractive as a second-hand buy than ever.
The BMW is much cheaper than rivals such as the Jaguar XF and Mercedes E-Class, and the rear-wheel-drive handling is superb. High-milers can be found for around £7,000, but it’s better to pay another £1,000 and secure a decent example. It’s also a good idea to give entry-level petrol models a wide berth, as they’re underpowered and difficult to sell on.
Diesel engines are the best bets by far – even the smallest 520d suits the BMW well, and it’s very frugal. The 5-Series was on sale for seven years and it was a popular model, so it’s easy enough to find. Independent dealers are good outlets to buy from, particularly with older cars, as they are cheaper
than BMW’s own forecourts.
Interiors are brimming with equipment, but much of this can be expensive to fix if it goes wrong, so try before you buy and make sure everything works. Reliability is generally good, though, as the 5-Series has always performed well in our Driver Power satisfaction surveys. This year it rose from 27th to 22nd place overall, with owners heaping most praise on its sharp brakes and powerful engine.
Nearly New: Jaguar XF
(2007 to date) Prices: £20,000-£40,000
We’ve consistently praised the Jag for its excellent dynamics and luxurious cabin, and it’s making its way on to the used market in increasing numbers. Second-hand models are still quite expensive and the XF isn’t as readily available as rivals, though. When there are more around and prices have dropped, it could well knock the BMW off top spot.
Value Choice: Audi A6
(2005 to date) Prices: £8,000-£30,000
The A6 is as understated as they come, and the cabin is exceptionally well built. Early models are now affordable and the Audi is as widely available as the 5-Series. The TDI diesel engines are superb, but avoid the big petrol units, as they’re thirsty and less desirable. As with the BMW, independent specialists are worth a look.
