The best executive buys
Whether for a family or an executive, the key components of a decent saloon car are well-established: comfort and efficiency is right on the top of the list along with spaciousness — but a bit of refinement, technology and luxury is also permitted, writes
Alfa Romeo Giulia
A family saloon with exquisite Italian design, inside and out the Giulia is tasked with reviving passion for the fabled Italian brand. The engine range includes a 2.2 litre JTD diesel (150 or 180bhp) and 2.0 litre (200bhp or 280bhp) turbo petrol. A range-topping 2.9 litre V6 bi-turbo for the Giulia Quadrifoglio is designed to compete with the MercedesAMG C63S and BMW M3. While it will take a lot to tempt buyers away from their Audis, BMWs and Mercedes, the Giulia is the way back for Alfa into driving hearts. Prices from: €39,995 Trims: Giulia , Super, Super Sport, Super Lux, Veloce Engine: D 2.0, 2.2 P 2.0, 2.9
Audi A4
Despite bearing more than a passing resemblance to the model it replaced, the new A4 is now even classier and lighter by 120kg. Six engine variants underpin the range: two petrol and four diesels. Audi claim fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 21pc. On the road the A4 it is solid and satisfying and an ideal motorway cruiser. Diesels provide smooth power delivery, refinement and excellent economy, particularly the 2.0-litre. Inside, the cabin is flawless and there is some industryleading technology. For a sportier take on a regular A4, opt for the S4, powered by a 3.0 TFSI engine, it sprints from 0 to 100kph in 4.7 seconds. Prices from: €35,300 Trims: S, SE Line Engine: P 1.4, 2.0. D 2.0, 3.0
Audi A6
The latest A6 refreshed last year brought a new level of luxury, refinement and technology to the Audi saloon. Impressive on the inside, Audi’s MMI navigation plus and MMI touch features logical menus and clean, crisp graphics.
From the outside, little has changed but updates include refreshed headlights, air inlets and bumpers. The range includes a choice of petrol or diesel, frontwheel drive or quattro and transmission choices are sixspeed, S tronic or tiptronic. With sleek and elegant good looks inside and out, the A6 is comfortable, economical and very refined. Prices from: €45,080 Trims: SE, S Line Engine: P 1.8 D 2.0, 3.0
BMW 3 Series
The 3 Series has always enjoyed an army of devoted fans as one of the best compact executive cars on the market. In the face of ferocious competition from the Jaguar XE and the new Audi A4, BMW’s timely facelift last year introduced new engines and a few subtle exterior tweaks to the lights and bumpers. The interior was also refreshed and it all feels of better quality. Inside there’s more legroom than in previous models, particularly in the rear, and boot size at 480 litres is reasonably good. The petrol-electric hybrid 330e is a revelation and captures the same marvellous handling and road holding, superb steering and comfortable ride we have come to expect from BMW’s compact saloon. Prices from: €36,570 Trims: SE, Sport, Luxury, M Sport Engine: P 1.5, 2.0, 3.0 D 2.0, 3.0
BMW 5 Series
Visual differences between the previous generation are minor but according to BMW the new model is faster, lighter and more efficient than before. The new 5 Series, although slightly larger, is lighter with an overall weight saving of 100kg. Power comes from a range of new and updated engines and offer greater fuel efficiency with lower emissions.
The new BMW 5 Series retains the key driving traits that have defined it for decades but though well equipped, the price at €51,950 is quite steep when compared to rivals. Prices from: €51,950 Trims: SE, Luxury, M Sport Engine: P 2.0, 3.0 D 2.0, 3.0
DS5
Designed to conjure up images of fine wine, and haute couture, DS is the upmarket line of luxury French-designed cars. Inside the DS 5 interior is inspired by the world of aviation and surrounds you in a cockpitstyle interior of pure luxury. There is an abundance of light and the seating position is comfortable but the controls are fiddly to use and not the most intuitive. There is also a lack of storage space throughout. There are BlueHDi diesel engine variations and a Euro 6-compliant hybrid 4x4 drive-train. The DS5 is the true successor to the original 50s icon with head-turning looks and futuristic design and is a beautiful executive blend of estate, coupé and MPV. But it would be a brave buyer that will opt for it over the competition. Prices from: €36,045 Trims: Elegance, Prestige Engine: D 1.6, 2.0 Hybrid 2.0
Ford Mondeo
The Mondeo is a sleeklooking car and sports an Aston Martin-like front grille. Inside it is stylish, but the quality throughout could be a little better. Engine choice includes a 1.6 or 2.0 litre diesel and the powerful 1.5 litre EcoBoost petrol. Introduced last year, the Vignale spec is Ford’s premium tier aimed at buyers who might otherwise migrate towards Mercedes, BMW and Audi and comes fully loaded with premium hand-stitched leather seats, SYNC2 with 8in touchscreen, active noise control, 19ins alloys and 10-way power seats, but it is hard to justify the premium price over the top-of-therange Titanium equivalent on the standard Mondeo. Prices from: €28,845 Trims: Style, Zetec, Titanium Engine: D 1.5, 2.0 P 1.5
Hyundai i40
The i40 is without doubt the most stylish car in the Hyundai range. Inside, it is very spacious with plenty of room for four or five adults and 525 litres of space. There is no scrimping on equipment: the standard spec includes leather steering wheel, electric lumbar support, Bluetooth with voice recognition and auto cruise control with speed limiter. On the road it is smooth and comfortable powered by a 1.7-litre turbodiesel engine with a choice of automatic or six-speed manual transmission. If you want a good-looking, capable large family car for a reasonable price, the i40 is worth test driving. Prices from: €26,495 Trims: Comfort, Comfort Plus, Executive 2017, Executive Plus Engine: D 1.7
Jaguar XE
Launched in 2015, the XE was designed to fill a gap in the Jaguar range left since the demise of the X-type some years before. The signature honeycomb grille, distinctive air vents and clean smooth lines add to the aggressive and sporty stance, while the rear light cluster pays homage to the iconic Jaguar E-type. Inside, it is smart and uncluttered, blending old-world with new technology. Space in the front is good but headroom is a little tight and head and knee room are not overly generous for back-seat passengers. Engines include a range of petrol and diesel options, including a 3.0-litre V6 with 340PS. Fuel efficiency is not as close to the official figures as we would like, the engine is noisy and it’s not quite as practical as some rivals but despite this Jaguar’s XE is a serious sports car with sharp steering and great driving dynamics. Prices from: €38,520 Trims: SE, Prestige, Portfolio, R-Sport, S Engine: P 2.0, 3.0 D 2.0
Jaguar XF
Sporting the now familiar Jaguar-style grille with a very distinctive coupé-like profile, the new XF weighs 190kg less than before so offers better fuel economy and improved handling. There is also very clever use of space and the boot, at 540 litres, is a reasonable size. Engine options include the 163bhp and 180bhp versions of the company’s 2-litre Ingenium diesel. The Jaguar XF is a very tempting car. It’s sufficiently comfortable for those who like a cosseted drive but fast enough for those who yearn for a more sporty option. Prices from: Trims: Engine: €45,995 Prestige, Portfolio, R-Sport D 2.0, 3.0
Kia Optima
The new Optima is a huge improvement on the previous model and brings Kia’s saloon car up to par with the rest of their range. Inside it is very roomy and the quality is good throughout. Powered by Kia’s reliable 1.7-litre turbodiesel powerplant, there are three trim levels — EX, Platinum and GSE — and a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed automatic gearbox. On the motorway it’s refined and cruises comfortably and quietly. Kia’s Optima is distinctively styled, spacious, well equipped and is a very well priced alternative in the demanding compact executive class. Prices from: €28,250 Trims: EX 7, Platinum 7, GT Line Engine: D 1.7
Lexus IS300h
Radically styled inside and out, the exterior won’t be to everyone’s taste but it is certainly striking. Inside the cabin is beautifully made, while on the road it is light and nimble to manoeuvre and around corners it’s surprisingly sporty. At speed the IS 300h feels very assured; the steering is nicely weighted. Switch it to Sport mode and the suspension is firm but not harsh and overall it is very engaging to drive. CO2 emissions are just 97g/km and official fuel economy figures promise 4.2 litres per 100km. The only real downside to this car is the very unappealing CVT gearbox but if you get past that, the IS300h is an interesting alternative to the Teutonic trio. Prices from: €39,950 Trims: Eco, S-Design, Luxury, F-Sport, Premium Engine: PH 2.5
Lexus GS300/450h
With hints of the LFA supercar, the flared wheel arches, lightning design and spindly shaped grille of the Lexus GS combine to give it a dynamic and modern look. Behind the wheel it’s a feast of technology with brightly lit gauges and switches. The driving position is excellent and it is supremely comfortable. Despite its weight, the handling is sharp and responsive but the steering is a little too numb for our tastes. Engine options include a 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor; it produces 223bhp and CO2 of just 106 g/km and is the one to opt for. There is also a 3.5-litre V6 on offer in the 450h model. With muscular styling, the Lexus GS range combines advanced technology and driving dynamics with luxury, guiltfree performance. Prices from: €53,450 Trims: Executive, Luxury, F-Sport, Premium Engine: PH 2.5, 3.5
Mazda6
Recently updated, the Mazda6 now boasts improved refinement but the biggest change is the addition of a system known as G-Vectoring Control (GVC) that it is designed to provide more precise handling and improved comfort.
The heads-up display is also enhanced and now features higher resolution with sat-nav instructions and traffic sign recognition. Engine options include 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel, both with very impressive fuel economy. Mazda has blended core family saloon must-haves such as space, comfort and fuel efficiency with their ‘zoom zoom’ DNA. The price tag is a little higher than rivals but it is well equipped, stylish and efficient. Prices from: €29, 295 Trims: Executive, Executive SE, Platinum Engine: P 2.0, D 2.2
Mercedes C-Class
When it comes to executive cars, looks matter — and from whichever angle you view Merdedes’s C-Class, it is a very appealing car. Inside it has everything you would expect from a Mercedes: stylish and modern, the dials clear and elegant and the seats are incredibly comfortable. Soft leather and leather-effect material drapes everything else. Buyers get a good mix of diesel or petrol engines to choose from. On the road the steering is precise and it is nicely balanced. The diesel engines are not quite as refined as you might expect but they offer the best blend of performance and low running costs. With a youthful and classy appeal, the C-Class saloon ticks many boxes on the compact executive market wish-list. Prices from: €33,795 Trims: Avantgarde, Exclusive, AMG Engine: D 1.6 2.1 P 1.6, 2.0
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon
The 10th-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a giant step forward. It now has a more coupé-like roofline with an S-Class-like sophistication and elegance. Combining practicality with good looks, there is also an extra 65mm in the wheelbase, which means improved legroom front and back. Under the bonnet is where the greatest changes have occurred, and the E-Class is the first to benefit from the new 2.0-litre fourcylinder diesel that replaces the 2.2-litre. It delivers a 17pc weight reduction, lower fuel consumption (3.9 litres/100km combined), lower C02 (102g/km), increased horsepower (194 bhp), 400Nm of torque and lower road tax (€190). The new generation E-Class is refined, efficient and a technological tour de force. Prices from: €47,975 Trims: Avantgarde, Exclusive, AMG Engine: P 3.0, D 2.0, 3.0
Mitsubishi Lancer
Not the most exiting car in the Mitsubishi range, the Lancer is safe and solid on the road with plenty of room for up to five people and a good-sized boot. It is well equipped and comes with a decent spec including 16in alloys, front fog lights, LED daytime running lights, Bluetooth handsfree system with voice and steering wheel controls, remote central locking and keyless entry system. Just one engine is offered, a 1.6-litre petrol with 132g/m and a fuel consumption figure of just 5.7 litres per 100km. Overall there is little wrong with the Lancer but its best days are well and truly behind it. Prices from: €20,595 Trim: Intense Engine: P 1.6
Opel Insignia Grand Sport
Keen to reinvent their popular but ageing Insignia, Opel have rebranded their new version the Insignia Grand Sport and it now comes with more space, a sophisticated interior and sleek new design. Climb inside and the changes are instantly noticeable; the new model is bigger, longer and wider. Engine options include a new 1.5-litre petrol engine with 140bhp or 168bhp, a 1.6-litre diesel with either 110bhp or 138bhp) and a 2-litre diesel (170hp) and turbo petrol (260bhp).
You now sit 30mm lower, so it all feels much more connected to the road, enhanced by a re-tuned suspension designed for sharper handling. It is well priced, looks good and driving dynamics and economy have improved. Prices from: €27,350 Trims: SC, SE, SRi, Elite Engine: P. 1.5, 2.0 D 1.6, 2.0
Peugeot 508
Refreshed in 2015, Peugeot’s 508 is an elegant, economical
and practical family saloon. Well equipped even at entry level, a special-order GT model is available. All 508s manage to offer a nice fusion of good comfort and an involving drive. It is beautifully smooth and ideal for long journeys. You wouldn’t call it agile on winding country lanes, but it is by no means tiring to drive and it’s nimble enough and easy to manoeuvre so that city driving and parking is a doddle. The 508 has a sufficient dash of French chic to make it stand out from the crowd. Prices from: €28,435 Trims: Access, Allure, GT Line, GT Engine: D1.6, 2.0
Skoda Octavia
A revamp this year means it’s better equipped than ever and it now comes with a new infotainment system and a nine-inch touchscreen. It is also 11mm longer and while visual changes are not immediately apparent, they include new headlights, LED tail-lights and restyled bumpers. Inside it is the space that really sets the Octavia apart from rivals and the boot measures a whopping 590 litres. There is an entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engine available or a 1.2 and a choice of a 1.6 or 2.0-litre diesel. The Octavia has always been a good choice as it offers excellent value for money and is now an even better buy. Prices from: €19,750 Trims: Active, Ambition, Style, L&K Engine: P 1.0 1.2 D 1.6, 2.0
Skoda Superb
Skoda’s flagship model lives up to its name supremely. The current model arrived in 2015. Inside, high-quality interior materials are used throughout but it is the rear leg room where the Superb really shines: there’s plenty of space for two tall adults to stretch out, and the boot is huge – in fact, it’s nearly easier to climb in rather than reaching to retrieve items from the cavernous space. There is a good engine range to choose from and all are efficient. In diesel you can opt for a 1.6 or a 2.0-litre, while petrol options include a 1.4 or a 2.0-litre with 280bhp and an optional seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. Skoda’s Superb is pretty unbeatable. While is not as cheap as it once was, it is still excellent value when you consider the space, equipment and running costs. Prices from: €27,500 Trims: Active, Ambition, Style, L&K Engine: P 1.4, 2.0 D 1.6, 2.0
Toyota Avensis
Toyota’s long-serving Avensis may be a prudent purchase but it is practical, safe and reliable and will accommodate five adults easily and comfortably. Originally introduced in 2009, it was significantly refreshed in 2015 and gained some subtle improvements to the exterior and two new BMW-sourced 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre diesel engines were introduced to the range. Fuel economy is good and a stop-start system is standard on all diesel engines. The line-up also includes one 1.8 petrol option. Three trims are available — Aura, Luna and Sol — and every model has decent equipment.
Both front and rear suspension systems features significant improvements to enhance both ride comfort and handling performance, while steering feel and responsiveness has also been improved. Well equipped, spacious and keenly priced, the Avensis may still not be the most thrilling car on the road but it offers quality and reliability that is hard to beat. Prices from: €29,930 Trims: Aura, Luna, Sol Engine: P 1.8 D 1.6, 2.0
Toyota Prius
There are few cars that can be considered truly game-changing, but the Toyota Prius is one. Now in its fourth generation, the Prius is lighter, stronger and more dynamic than the car it replaces. While still the familiar Prius, the new car gets distinctive styling and is now longer and wider and overall a much smarterlooking vehicle. Inside, the cabin is more upmarket with a modern, almost spaceage feel. The new Prius is even greener than before, with the 1.8 petrol engine to give a claimed get 94.1mpg (3l/100km) and emit just 70g/ km of CO2 emissions, so road tax is €170. On the road it is now much better to drive as it feels more agile and the steering more precise. Prices from: €31,450 Trims: Hybrid, Hybrid Luxury Engine: PH 1.8
Volkswagen Passat
A handsome saloon, Volkswagen’s Passat comes in a choice of petrol and diesel engines and a variety of trim levels. A Passat GTE plug-in hybrid is also available with its 1.4-litre TSi engine. The petrol engine combines with an 85kw lithium ion battery to produce an impressive 218hp while returning a claimed combined economy of 1.7l/100km (or 166mpg).
Depending on the specification chosen — Trendline, Comfortline or Highline — there are plenty of equipment options to choose from. On the road it is quiet and well mannered. The Passat offers refinement, smart interior and good driving dynamics. Prices from: €27,930 Trims: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline Engine: D 1.6, 2.0 P 1.4, PH 1.4
Volvo S60
The S60 is distinctively styled outside and simple and elegant inside. The Swedish interior is beautifully built yet both practical and functional. Space is good throughout but overall it is not quite as roomy as some rivals, particularly in the rear. In keeping with all Volvos, the S60 is all about safety and all are equipped with Volvo’s City Safety System, designed to help a driver avoid a low-speed crash or to reduce its severity with a host of passive and active safety systems. Three new engines — D2, D3 and D5 — were added last year to the range, plus power was increased for the new 190bhp D4. Much underrated by Irish motorists, the Volvo S60 is safe, comfortable and very refined. Prices from: €34,995 Trims: ES, SE, SE Lux, R-Design SE Engine: D 2.0, 2.5
Volvo S90
The S90 is unmistakable on the road and it is the epitome of classy and cool Scandinavian design. Inside, it is familiar Volvo with an uncomplicated dashboard that is intuitive enough to use without taking your eyes off the road. Key to this simplicity is the easy-to-operate nine-inch touchscreen. The front seats are extremely comfortable with plenty of legroom and headroom. Powering the range is two 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine in three trim levels: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. The S90 is the best saloon that Volvo has made and is a real premium alternative in this German-dominated market. Keen drivers may favour rivals but it’s still a very tempting combination of luxury, comfort and technology with stunning good looks and is probably only second to ABBA in terms of Swedish accomplishments. Prices from: €44.995 Trims: Momentum, Inscription, R-Design Engine: D 2.0