TOP 5 LUXURY CARS
BENTLEY FLYING SPUR
THE GOOD: Based on the superb (and Porsche-derived) Continental GT, the Spur is the definitive modern limo: eortless, but rewarding when you want to put some eort in
THE BAD: The W12 is fast but short on soul; the hybrid V6 a bit lame
THE UGLY: Nope. Nothing
THE ONE TO BUY: V8 starts at £163k and is our pick. Some stunning paint and interior options – enjoy!
ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM
THE GOOD: A moneyno-object pinnacle and a benchmark for craftsmanship and serenity
THE BAD: Is this really you? And is this really appropriate in 2022?
THE UGLY: Filthy-money associations
THE ONE TO BUY: It’s
‘standard’ or longwheelbase. Or the Ghost
MERCEDES S CLASS
THE GOOD: Loads of new tech while retaining its timeless waftability
THE BAD: Surprisingly unrefined petrol six
THE UGLY: A walking dinosaur facing evolution or extinction
THE ONE TO BUY: Two petrols, two diesels and a hybrid. Base AMG Line trim plenty: buy that and some choice options
PORSCHE PANAMERA
THE GOOD: A limo that's genuinely fun to drive
THE BAD: Sportier suspension means less cushy ride; not roomy
THE UGLY: Tries to be a sports car and a saloon without quite being a master at either
THE ONE TO BUY: Dizzyingly complex range of variants; we'd go for the 4S, from £93k
AUDI
S8
THE GOOD: Twin-turbo V8 meets ultra-trick suspension in a sportslimo balancing act
THE BAD: A little light on personality
THE UGLY: Very good in all respects, not least speed. Stand-out in none
THE ONE TO BUY: A8 starts around £850pcm; for the more engaging S8 you’ll need £1350pcm