As SUVs become more popular, compact saloons are becoming less common on the roads. However, these types of cars can be great choices for daily use, especially if you choose the right one. The top compact saloons not only have a classic three-box shape and a desirable badge, but they also offer athletic and engaging handling, a smooth and comfortable ride, a luxurious and well-made interior, strong performance, and good fuel efficiency.
Additionally, with stricter emissions regulations, it is helpful if a compact saloon has a tax-friendly plug-in hybrid option. Finding a car that strikes the right balance between all these features can be challenging, but the following cars offer the most convincing combination of these attributes.
Number 1. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The latest Mercedes C-Class is a highly impressive competitor in the compact executive car segment. As always, it’s best to think of the C-Class as a miniaturized S-Class, and in the case of this W206 model, that analogy has never been more accurate. The Mercedes sets the standard for interior design and luxury, especially with its extensive use of TFT screens, and a longer wheelbase means taller passengers can comfortably sit in the back. Standard equipment is generous across the range, and the technology and materials used in the top-of-the-line versions are particularly opulent and impressive.
The car’s driver assist systems are also very strong. While the C-Class’s handling may not be as precise or inviting as some of its competitors, Mercedes fans will appreciate its more laid-back ride and luxurious character. The standard 2.0-liter diesel engine, which is used in the C220d and C300d models, is a quiet, efficient, and capable performer, and there’s also the 402 horsepower AMG-tuned C43, which is now a four-cylinder, electrically assisted Q-car, and the forthcoming 670 horsepower, four-cylinder hybrid C63.
Mercedes also offers a tax-saving plug-in hybrid version of the C-Class, the C300e, which features a four-cylinder engine, electric motor, and a large 25.4 kWh battery. The C300e claims an impressive 68 miles of electric range, enough for most daily tasks and low BiK tax band. It’s also a punchy and smooth performer that’s rarely caught off guard as it switches between different power sources.
