When it comes to company cars, it’s important to find the right model for you – given how much many motorists spend behind the wheel of them.
Depending on where you’re located in the country, it’s often motorways where these cars spend the majority of the time, and you really don’t want to be behind the wheel of something that’s not suitable.
With that in mind, we’ve come up with five models that are superb for long-distance journeys, and at all price points, too.
Volvo S60 T8
With Volvo now having an extensive range of plug-in hybrid options, it’s no surprise that these models are becoming increasingly popular with company car drivers.
And if you’re looking for something that excels on the motorway, any of Volvo’s latest offerings would be a fantastic bet. But it’s the mid-size S60 T8 saloon that’s selected here for its combination of supreme refinement, comfort and low running costs from the T8 plug-in powertrain. From April 2020, it will sit in a Benefit-in-Kind bracket of just 12 per cent, meaning you would expect to pay £1,592 per year in company car tax – more than £1,000 less than the non-electrified T5 petrol model.
Mini Clubman Cooper D
While plug-in hybrids are increasingly the preferred choice for company car drivers, there is still a strong case for choosing an efficient diesel engine for your next car.
The Mini Clubman is a fine example of this, as this quirky estate is available with a particularly efficient 2.0-litre diesel engine, which is badged as the ‘Cooper D’. Providing you don’t opt for the sports suspension, it offers a comfortable ride – while the diesel engine offers a great combination of performance and efficiency, returning up to a claimed 56.5mpg.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
After a lengthy absence from the executive car class, Alfa Romeo re-joined the segment in 2017 with its stunning Giulia – a model that undoubtedly surprised brands from BMW, Audi and Mercedes.
While the Giulia is undoubtedly more tailored towards glamour and its fantastic driving experience, it still remains an impressive motorway cruiser as it’s supremely comfortable. The 2.2-litre diesel engine is a fantastic engine choice for long-distance driving, too.
Fiat 500X
While Fiat might see its 500X as more of an urban model, this funky crossover also impresses on the motorway. Facelifted last year with a revised look, more technology, and new engines, it has only elevated this model further.
For motorway driving, the engine to go for is the new turbocharged 1.3-litre ‘Firefly’ petrol engine, which comes paired to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission.
BMW 745e
If you have the scope for a more luxurious and expensive company car, then BMW’s flagship 7 Series is a superb choice. While more commonly seen as a car to be chauffeured around in, it’s equally impressive behind the wheel, and is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing and comfortable cars to travel in on long-distance motorway journeys.
If you’re wanting to cut down your company car bills, opt for the impressive 745e plug-in hybrid, which offers an all-electric range of 36 miles. From April 2020 it will also sit in the low BiK bracket of just 12 per cent – meaning you’ll pay £1,825 in company car tax if you’re a 20 per cent taxpayer.