Top 10 Best Company Cars: Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Job
When starting a new job, one of the most exciting tasks is selecting the best company car. While increased taxation has reduced the number of employees vying for work wheels, choosing wisely can still provide an excellent perk and save you money. To minimize Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax, it’s best to opt for an electric vehicle (EV). Business users are only liable for a charge based on 2% of the car’s value, resulting in significant tax savings. However, EVs may not be suitable for drivers who cover long distances on a tight schedule and require reliable charging infrastructure.
For many employees, traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid models still make more sense. Although they often incur higher salary sacrifices compared to zero emissions vehicles, careful selection can minimize monthly expenses. To help you make an informed decision, here are our top 10 choices across various categories, combining low BIK bills with driver appeal.
1. Mid-sized Executive – BMW 530e M Sport
The BMW 530e M Sport offers a smooth and efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain, balanced handling, and a comfortable ride. While it may feel big and lack some dynamic poise, its vast, beautifully finished interior and range of powertrains make it a top pick for executive saloons.
2. Luxury car – Mercedes S580e Long 4MATIC AMG Line Premium Plus
For CEOs seeking the finest in luxury and technology, the Mercedes S580e Long 4MATIC AMG Line Premium Plus is the ultimate choice. It combines dynamic drive, first-class luxury, and an efficient hybrid powertrain. Though some electronic driver aids can be intrusive, it offers a higher BiK rating than other luxury cars.
3. Compact crossover – Cupra Formentor 1.4 e-Hybrid VZ1
The Cupra Formentor 1.4 e-Hybrid VZ1 stands out for its distinctive styling, upmarket interior, and genuine driver appeal. While its hybrid drivetrain may lack EV range compared to rivals, its attractive price tag and engaging handling make it a cost-effective choice for user-choosers.
4. Family hatchback – Peugeot 308 PHEV Allure 180
With the newly facelifted Golf lacking plug-in hybrid power, the Peugeot 308 PHEV Allure 180 takes the top spot for family hatchbacks. It offers a welcome return to Peugeot’s trademark fluid ride and agile handling, along with a classy and well-appointed interior.
5. Compact family saloon – Mercedes C330e
If driving thrills are your priority, the Mercedes C330e plug-in hybrid outperforms its BMW counterpart. With a strong EV range, accurate handling, and a cushioned ride, it offers an excellent blend of performance and efficiency.
6. Family SUV – Land Rover Discovery Sport P300e Dynamic SE
The Land Rover Discovery Sport P300e Dynamic SE combines on-road poise and off-road prowess with rich cabin quality and ample space. While its PHEV drivetrain may not be the most efficient, it offers a compelling blend of talents for family SUVs.
7. Luxury SUV – Range Rover Sport P460e SE
The Range Rover Sport P460e SE boasts unmatched refinement, isolation, and a lengthy EV range. Although its bluff-fronted exterior may lack the understated appeal of its predecessors, it still radiates successful business savvy.
8. Small car – Renault Clio E-TECH Hybrid Techno
Choosing a supermini like the Renault Clio E-TECH Hybrid Techno can lower BiK bills while still providing a sophisticated ride and refined interior. Its hybrid drivetrain delivers eager performance and strong efficiency, making it a top choice for compact cars.
9. Seven-seater – Volvo XC90 T8 Plug-in Hybrid Core
The Volvo XC90 T8 Plug-in Hybrid Core offers a spacious interior, confident handling, and a strong comfort level. Despite its electrifying pace, it remains true to Volvo’s safety-first image and provides an impressive all-rounder for business users.
10. Pick-up truck – Ford Ranger
For business users in need of a rugged runaround, the Ford Ranger is the best pick-up truck on the market. It combines SUV-like ride and handling with a smart and spacious interior, making it a handy work tool that can also serve as a family vehicle.
Choosing the right company car is crucial for both practicality and tax benefits. By considering these top 10 choices across various categories, you can find a vehicle that combines low BIK bills with enough driver appeal to keep things interesting.
