Author: Sam Hardy
Winner: BMW 3 Series (new model)
Head and shoulders above the rest of its executive rivals, BMW’s latest 3 Series is the best executive in the class. It’s fun to drive, more comfortable than before while there’s also more space too. You can choose from a range of economical diesels and, thanks to a new 2.0-litre turbo, frugal and fast petrols too. Factor in new safety technology, the excellent Drive Performance Control system (which tweaks throttle, steering and suspension and includes the super frugal ECO PRO mode as well as Sport mode) and you’ve got a perfect business car.
Commended: Audi A4 TDIe
Losing out to the 3 Series will be tough on Audi – but the A4 is still a fine choice, and in 2.0TDe form an economical one.
Commended: VW Passat Bluemotion
Classy, beautifully made and so relaxing, the Passat Bluemotion just works – and you can’t argue with 114g/km and over 60mpg for company car tax.
Commended: Merc C-Class
Every inch the baby S-Class, Mercedes’ baby Benz is a properly upmarket machine – and in C200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY trim, a very economical one too.
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