The buzzword in the business community, in these recession times, is “downsizing”. Put euphemistically, bosses suffering losses are looking to “right-size” their companies to survive the downturn.
At the same time, they should rationalise their company car. A swanky new V8 limousine is an affront to the poor staff who have had their salaries cut because of the economic crisis, while an anonymous Japanese car might make the shareholders lose even more confidence in their chief executive officer.
A safe choice, then, would be one of the three 6-cylinder executive saloons in this story. Although they can’t be considered inexpensive, ranging from $171,000 for the keenly priced Volvo to almost a quarter million for the Audi, our contestants offer a lot of luxury and technology for the money. In fact, they can be regarded as a cost-effective sweet spot in upmarket motoring.
There is no corporate law stipulating that towkays, even those in the red, are not allowed to enjoy their drive to work and back. So we’ve assembled over 900 horsepower here, collectively developed by three very different powerplants – turbocharged (the Volvo), supercharged (the Audi) and petrol-electric hybrid (the Lexus).
Now let Torque’s editorial directors oversee this boardroom power struggle and nominate the “employee” of the month.
A6 – Driver’s seat offers the best blend of cruising comfort and cornering support. Outward visibility is excellent, with a reverse camera that is even more helpful than the Lexus’.
GS450H – Lush leather chair is soft and slippery compared to the other two cars’ and provides the most ensconced driving position. Shallow glasshouse and thick pillars mean average visibility.
S80 – Driver’s seat is supremely comfortable and equipped with welcome 3-speed ventilation. Has the clearest and most commanding view in all directions, further enhanced by pictogram-based parking assistance.
