Left-field Commended choice

Audi A6 Mk4

The A6 is nearly as much of a bargain as the 5 Series, and is a quiet and comfortable cruiser. It’s not as good to drive as the BMW, but interior quality is great and the economical diesels keep running costs low.

Mk1

A Budget of around £23,000 sees a surprisingly wide range of used Panameras available. Budget for pricey running costs and you’ve got a fast and luxurious car for less than a new family hatchback.

options

MANY business cars are leased, so it’s a sound way to gain access to a second-hand executive saloon such as the 5 Series.

It’s more than five years old so PCP in this case isn’t possible, but with leasing costs of £304 a month based on the usual three-year deal with a 10 per cent deposit, it’s affordable. If you can run it as a business asset and are VAT registered, you’ll get the cost back.

Range Rover Mk4

If you prefer your luxury to come in SUV form, then consider a Range Rover. They hold their value fairly well, but you can buy a 2014 car for around £35,000 with less than 80,000 miles. It’s refined, ultra relaxing and adds serious offroad and towing performance, too.

options

THINK luxury and you might also think pricey, but buying on finance is a great way to gain access to one of the most sophisticated vehicles around. For £424 per month, less than the monthly price for some family SUVS, you can bag an S-class.

The initial deposit of £2,500 is even fairly reasonable. While you’ll spend more on fuel and maintenance, you can have most of the ownership experience for a fraction of the cost here.