With the narrowing divide between mid-sized saloons and their “higher” rivals from premium makes, today’s executive is no longer confined to just the typical choices. The saloons here might not boast prestige badges, but their space, pace and equipment have made them a real draw regardless.
That said, an exec’s ride should be just like its driver. It must have a good design, so it doesn’t look out of place when parked next to “traditional” executive cars in the office carpark. It should have excellent traits that make it stand out in a crowd, but at the same time be a consummate all-rounder.
Just like the work performance expected of its owner, today’s executive saloon must temper sportiness with efficiency, for the busy exec does not waste time continually visiting petrol kiosks.
Those are tall orders, but they’re hardly surprising when you consider the go-getters who will be driving these vehicles.
With the 2009 award for European Car Of The Year in its bag, the Insignia certainly has substantial credentials to its name. Though its powerful drivetrain is dynamic, the car’s emphasis on performance might not be to everyone’s taste. The cabin finish could also be improved to match the other two contenders here.
Having been underrated for so long, the facelifted Mondeo finally has the goodies its predecessor didn’t to properly compete in this segment. Don’t let its understated looks fool you – this polished saloon is refined and effortless on the go. It is keenly priced, too.
But nudging past its two rivals is the refreshed Passat. What it lacks in power and outright sportiness is made up for with its classy feel, high efficiency and excellent equipment, ensuring a well-balanced package that offers value for money at the same time.
Ford Mondeo 2.0 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 16-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1999cc
Bore x stroke 87.5mm x 83.1mm
Compression ratio 10:1
Max Power 203bhp at 6000rpm
Max Torque 300Nm at 1750-4500rpm
Power to weight 129.4bhp per tonne
Gearbox 6-speed dual-clutch
Driven Wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 7.9 seconds
Top Speed 232km/h
Consumption 12.8km/L (combined)
SUSPENSION
Front Macpherson struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear Multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
Front / rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Goodyear EfficientGrip
Size 215/50 R17
SAFETY
Airbags 7
Traction Control ABS with ESP
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4844mm
Width 1937mm
Height 1500mm
Wheelbase 2850mm
Kerb Weight 1569kg
Turning Circle 11.9m
BUYING IT
Price $144,999 incl. COE
Warranty 5 years/100,000km
+ Refined and effective drivetrain, superb steering, roomy interior
– Inconvenient USB placement, “hidden” door locks, long gear ratios
Volkswagen Passat 1.8 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 16-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1798cc
Bore x stroke 82.5mm x 84.2mm
Compression ratio 9.8:1
Max Power 160bhp at 5000-6200rpm
Max Torque 250Nm at 1500-4200rpm
Power to weight 105.5bhp per tonne
Gearbox 7-speed dual-clutch
Driven Wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 8.5 seconds
Top Speed 220km/h
Consumption 14.3km/L (combined)
SUSPENSION
Front Macpherson struts, coil springs
Rear Multi-link, coil springs
BRAKES
Front / rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Continental ContiSportContact 3
Size 235/45 R17
SAFETY
Airbags 6
Traction Control ABS with ESP
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4769mm
Width 1820mm
Height 1470mm
Wheelbase 2712mm
Kerb Weight 1517kg
Turning Circle 11.4m
BUYING IT
Price $161,800 incl. COE
Warranty 3 years/100,000km
+ Well-planned package, good fuel consumption, large cargo capacity
– Lacks room for fifth occupant, no rear door locks, average steering feel
Opel Insignia 2.0 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 16-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1998cc
Bore x stroke 86mm x 86mm
Compression ratio 9.5:1
Max Power 220bhp at 5300rpm
Max Torque 350Nm at 2000-4000rpm
Power to weight 138.8bhp per tonne
Gearbox 6-speed automatic with manual select
Driven Wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 7.8 seconds
Top Speed 240km/h
Consumption 10.4km/L (combined)
SUSPENSION
Front Macpherson struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear Multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
Front / rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Bridgestone Potenza RE050A
Size 245/45 R18
SAFETY
Airbags 6
Traction Control ABS with ESC
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4830mm
Width 1856mm
Height 1498mm
Wheelbase 2737mm
Kerb Weight 1585kg
Turning Circle 10.9m
BUYING IT
Price $168,888 incl. COE
Warranty 3 years/100,000km
+ Muscular performance, solid audio system, handsome styling
– Quality of cabin plastics, only one air-conditioned seat, thirsty motor
