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24/04/2020
Alice Poole
Alice applies her extensive test drive experience and her passion for motors to bring you informed and characterful articles and vehicle reviews.
Read time of 3 minutes.
In a lot of cases, they’re a favourite of business car drivers putting in a lot of motorway miles, but they also make great family cars – with ample room and impressive safety ratings that will keep everyone happy.
Here are some of our favourites...
The BMW 3 Series will always be a strong contender. Whilst practical, it is also incredibly fun to drive. It’s available with a plethora of different petrol and diesel engines and even a plug-in-hybrid for those looking for electric miles and low BIK tax rates. It’s also really safe, with a load of safety tech as standard, and the highest 5* rating from Euro NCAP. It’s one of the pricier models in our list. But let us tell you, it’s worth it.
Boot Capacity: 480 Litres
Seats: 5. Folded: 40:20:40
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: from 39 g/km
Volvo's slogan for the S60 is: “For the road. For the planet.” So it’s no surprise that this is a great contender for those wanting to be a bit more economical on their commutes. It’s available as a plug-in-hybrid or as a petrol. It’s also no slug off the mark – with the slowest variant you’ll still get from 0-60 in just 6.3 seconds. This one is a great alternative for those wanting a premium saloon, but something a bit different from its German competitors.
Boot Capacity: 442 Litres
Seats: 5. Folded: 60:40
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: from 39 g/km
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has never been a cheap car. But with leasing providing lower monthly costs, many are finding the C-Class a much more affordable car than they first thought. And the thing is, it’s a really desirable car. Premium tech, premium materials and a premium badge. Not to mention eye-catching aesthetics. What’s not to like?!
Boot Capacity: 455 Litres (300 for EQ)
Seats: 5. Folded: 40:20:40
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: from 38 g/km
For those who saw our recent reviews of the Land Rover Discovery Sport, or Range Rover Evoque, you’ll notice that the Jaguar shares a huge amount of their features. From the touchscreen to the new gear shifter and even the clear sight mirror. That’s certainly no bad thing and, with the introduction of a lot of these features, the Jag feels a lot more up to date and is certainly a refined drive.
Boot Capacity: 480 Litres
Seats: 5. Folded: 60:40 or 40:20:40 (optional extra)
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: from 130 g/km
The Guilia wins points for being one of the best looking cars in the lineup. Its boot capacity matches that of both the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon. Whilst you’re benefiting from the practicality of a saloon car, you’re also getting a car that’s sharp and sporty to drive. It’s also one the safest cars out there for adult protection.
Boot Capacity: 480 Litres
Seats: 5. Folded: 40:20:40
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: from 127 g/km
The A4 is a fantastic car for business car drivers as you can get variants with emissions as low as 100 g/km. You can see our list of other low emission cars to consider here. It also gives you an impressive amount of tech as standard; features such as a digital drivers display, keyless start and heated front seats. It’s also incredibly comfortable, and hits the nail on the head in terms of a high quality interior.
Boot Capacity: 480 Litres
Seats: 5. Folded: 40:20:40
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: from 100 g/km
If you're used to Saloon driving, but want to go fully electric, then the model 3 is probably the way to go. And in terms of technology, this is undoubtedly the most advanced of the lot. Whilst its minimalist design isn’t as plush at the Audi or Mercedes, it’ll certainly entertain the kids. Fart mode. Need we say any more?
Boot Capacity: 425 litres (including front storage space)
Seats: 5. Folded: 60:40
Safety: 5* Euro NCAP
CO2: 0 g/km
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