30
Today's executives are a discerning lot. In times gone by, your progress up the company ladder
was charted by a succession of increasingly bigger BMWs and, when the time came to sign the
papers on the 7-Series, you could stop working really. You had made it. Now though, there's
much more choice. Since diesels got good, it's probably the best and most economical way to
go but there are also the thirsty and quick V8 variants out there too, so there's still fun to be
had. Here are our favourite cars for the ambitious, up-and-coming future CEO.
BMW 5 series
�27,465
With dubious styling and a common-as-
muck image, the BMW 5-series is perhaps
not the most inspired choice here, but a
class leader in the driving department. It
goes, handles, stops and rides perfectly, and
you can choose from humble diesels right
up to the frankly insane 507bhp V10 M5.
Mercedes E Class
�28,150
A huge range of good engines make the
E-Class extremely versatile, and the
estate version adds extra practicality.
Sharp handling and smooth riding,
it'll get you places quickly, quietly and
in extreme comfort. Some Mercedes
quirks might take a bit of getting used to.
Audi A6
�25,390
Audi's A6 is the less obvious choice
here, but it's a good one. With a
sporting attitude and excellent build
quality, it's eerily quiet inside and
superbly appointed with space and kit.
Also cheaper than cars from rivals
BMW and Mercedes.
Our choice
Jaguar XF � �33,900
Despite Jaguar's non-British owners, this is
is still a somewhat patriotic choice. Every
now and then a car comes along which is
the saviour of an ailing company and this,
the XF, is Jaguar's knight in shining armour.
Worthy winner of Car of the Year
2008, its party piece is a stunningly
theatrical interior which lights up in
cool blue and completely blows away the
fusty, cobwebbed image of Jaguars
from the last 20 years.
Choose from a petrol V6 or V8 or the
2.7 V6 diesel, and you'll be disappointed
with none. The XF is creeping into
BMW territory with the superb handling,
and it's also a fun car to throw around.
And the best bit?
You'll be driving a Jaguar.
Executive

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