The Mercedes-Benz E-Class

If you’re successful and want to look the part without appearing to be on the brink of a mid-life crisis, this could be the set of wheels for you.

Turning up to a meeting with the bank in a worn out 2CV might not fill your account manager with the greatest degree of confidence in the current strength of your company.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, however, is a real favourite in business, accounting for 30 per cent of the executive car market in Western Europe. Apart from looking rather flash, it boasts more than 2,000 technical improvements on its predecessor.

The E-Class is no slouch. With a top speed of 155mph, it does zero to 62mph in just 4.5 seconds.

There are a variety of engines to choose from, ranging from the 1.8-litre, four cylinder to the 5.5-litre supercharged V8, plus three diesel options.

Popular extras include a CD autochanger and parking sensors so you don’t scratch your paintwork trying to squeeze into a tight spot.

Models range from about £28,000 for the saloon to around £67,000 for the super-swanky version.