3 series or new merc c class or ???

[CAH706]

We currently own a 335d xdrive and I have a Merc E class cab company car which is due to be changed.

Looking at either another 3 series (but ideally don't want 2 of the same car) or the new c class (250 bluetec AMG) as it's well kitted out, nippy enough, decent mpg and low emissions.

So long as the emissions is below 160, I can add a contribution and get what I want but ideally given the 330d or Merc would be free (apart from tax) I'd like to keep within this ballpark.

Is there another car I'm missing off my consideration list and what would you go for....the Merc or the BMW?

[okie592]

Skoda superb

[CAH706]

Seriously?

I've owned a Fabia VRS, Octavia VRS and the old shape Superb but not driven the new one.

Is it really as good or better than the BMW or Merc?

[scenario8]

What do you want from the car? Are you looking for another 4/5 seater executive saloon car, then? One with plenty of go and a mildly sporty feel to it? Premium feeling? Anything else or anything less?

[kambites]

CAH706 said:

Is it really as good or better than the BMW or Merc?

Depends on what you want. The Superb is closer to 5-series sized than 3-series and has the extra spare/comfort you'd expect of a car in that class. The engines and chassis aren't in the same league as BMW's, though, and obviously the badge wont impress the neighbours.

[CAH706]

Saloon or coupe, 4 seats, 'nippy'performance, ideally over 40mpg, decent handling without being too hard (the 335d we have is fine), good amount of standard kit, under 160 emissions

If I get a 330d with a few toys it costs me nothing apart from the tax. If I go to say a 530d I start to have to contribute. I'm not concerned about adding £200 per month or so.

Not bothered if exec car or not....image is not important

[okie592]

You didn't say if you needed petrol or derv but the superb can be had with a 3.6 v6 4x4 petrol.

Or they do a 2.0 170bhp tdi which is the unit from the Audi vw stable. Also available as 4x4

I would seriously recommend one. Full spec xenons sat nav leather, keyless go etc, bigger inside than both a 3 and a C. And will be much cheaper.

The Laurin and kelmit has even more kit.
The saloon looks a bit wierd from the back bit the estate is lovely.


It may not have the badge but I think the new e class looks very low brow


Alternatively how about a Volvo s60, that's easily the best looking car in this class.

Edited by okie592 on Monday 14th April 20:58

Edited by okie592 on Monday 14th April 21:05

[anonymous-user]

I'd personally choose the 330d, however the new Lexus IS might be worth a look. Been looking at one "in the flesh" this morning and it is certainly a quality item.

[amusingduck]

Jaguar XF surely?

[Deerfoot]

As above, the new Lexus IS is a quality item and you'll not see hundreds of others every day.

[CAH706]

Thanks for the further suggestions.

Hadn't thought about the Lexus at all so will have a look at that.

Not sure on the Jag but again will have a read up further.

I've got a drive of the Volvo lined up already so will see how it drives later in the week.

Cheers all

[Mr SFJ]

What about a 4 series BMW? or what about something like a Vauxhall Insignia or a Passat CC?

[Mr SFJ]

Also: there's a new C Class coming out later this year, might be worth holding out until then?

[CAH706]

4 series looks expensive for what it is to me. I think I'd rather have another 335d.

It's the new c class I'm tempted with. Looks good on paper and possible betters the 3 series in a lot of ways.

Thanks for the input

[Mr SFJ]

Not a problem