Best Saloons

The Volkswagen CC is a stylish yet practical saloon car with a distinctive appearance. It’s among the classier VWs on the road both inside and out, and typically for the brand, holds its value well. With reasonable boot space and a backseat large enough for two adults, the CC is a comfortable ride for all passengers. It’s not especially exciting to drive, though both petrol and diesel options have good acceleration and offer a refined approach to longer journeys. Pre-2012 models were badged as the Volkswagen Passat CC and it was relabelled as the VW Arteon in 2017.

With its classy cabin and bold exterior, the Lexus IS is best described as a compact executive saloon. It’s available as a petrol or self-charging hybrid, though there may be some older diesel models still on the road. The IS driving experience is capable and refined rather than sporty. Inside there’s plenty of room up front, though rear passengers may find it tight for longer trips. Boot space is reasonable, but if this is a high priority go for the petrol option, as the battery eats into it on the hybrid versions. If a touch of luxury is a must, this is one of the best saloons on the market.

The Ford Mondeo is a classic family saloon. This popularity isn’t surprising – there’s a ton of space inside, with backseats that are comfortable for adults and kids alike. The estate version is even more spacious, and the boot on both options is plenty big enough for longer trips. Just don’t expect luxury – the interior is fairly basic. In terms of performance, the Mondeo feels agile and handles well on country roads and the motorway. Petrol and diesel options are available, though if engine noise is a concern, go for the diesel. One downside to look out for is depreciation – the Mondeo doesn’t hold its value too well.

The BMW 5 Series is a capable and luxurious saloon that feels refined inside and out. You can get it as a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid, but just be aware that the hybrid battery eats into the usually copious boot space. The 5 Series is satisfying to drive and feels well-balanced and reliable. Inside, it’s quiet and comfortable, though taller backseat passengers may want for legroom, and the M Sport options offer a smoother ride. A large touchscreen livens that interior up too, bringing infotainment and satellite navigation, as well as a plethora of other high-end features available as options for different years and trims. Balancing performance, tech and executive comfort, the 5 Series has long held its crown as arguably the best saloon car out there.

With its bold, distinctively Audi exterior and luxurious cabin, the A6 is a saloon to turn heads. Forget the clout though, you’re the one getting pampered inside, with svelte leather upholstery and plenty of space in which to enjoy four-zone climate control and touchscreen infotainment. Even fancier features are available on higher-level trims, and this model underwent a facelift in 2016 that added more new kit. The A6 is most commonly found as a 2.0-litre diesel, but as you’d imagine larger engines and petrol options are also available.

The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a compact luxury saloon with a gorgeous, sharp appearance. The interior matches the exterior too – it’s plush and stylish with a range of active safety features available as standard across the different trims. It’s only available as an automatic (in both petrol and diesel), but don’t let that get you down, because the handling is sporty and fun without being too involved. There’s a range of models and trims of the Giulia on the road, but the 2.2-litre diesel is the most popular. Whichever you go for, you’ll be pleased to know that despite struggling to meet the rated efficiency level, it retains its value well.

The Vauxhall Insignia is a popular and affordable saloon with an interior that’s set up well for driving and offers good quality for the price. It’s available in petrol or diesel with a range of engine sizes, though we think the 1.5-litre petrol is the best. The ride is relaxed over smooth surfaces but a little bumpy on poorer quality roads – to maximise comfort, choose 17-18 inch wheels. At speed, the Insignia feels confident, but it lags a little on corners. If practicality – and not speed – is your priority, be conscious that taller backseat passengers may struggle for headroom, but there’s plenty of legroom and decent enough boot space.

Even at a glance, it’s clearly a BMW. The 3 Series is an iconic luxury vehicle that comes from a long line of prestigious saloons. It’s been on the road for a long time, so features will vary significantly on older models. On more modern ones, expect kit such as a HUD, LED headlights, heated exterior mirrors, wireless smartphone charging and a ten-speaker sound system. The 3 Series is available in petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid versions, all offering a very smooth ride with a fun and immersive driving experience. Like it’s sibling the 5 Series, this Bimmer is one of the best saloons when it comes to balancing comfort and performance.

The Skoda Superb is great value, and it’s an impressively large car relative to the size of its price tag. If you’re after even more space, check out the Estate version too. Petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options are available, though none have the engine sound of a luxury car – it’s a well-built, practical family vehicle. Inside, the Superb is well made with impressive attention to detail and plenty of room. For the driver, it’s reasonably efficient and moves well with light and easy steering. You’ve got the option to go with a manual or an automatic transmission, and you can choose a part-time four-wheel-drive too if it takes your fancy.

The Mercedes C-Class is an upmarket executive saloon that’s available as petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid. It has a stylish interior with a premium feel and plenty of legroom for all passengers. The large touchscreen infotainment system is easy to see for all and offers navigation, though you’ll need a fancier trim level for live traffic updates. In the driver’s seat, the C-Class feels alert if a little unrewarding, and the modern mild hybrids struggle to hit their rated performance stats. Rear visibility isn’t great, but the rear camera that comes as standard compensates well for this.

Fancy finding the best saloon car for you? Whether you’re after a premium ride or a practical family vehicle, there’s one out there that fits the bill. To learn more about individual models and see what’s on offer, check out our detailed reviews or search our used listings.