If you want a compact executive saloon with hybrid power and all-wheel drive, the Infiniti Q50S Hybrid AWD will do the job very well. But that's a pretty narrow niche.

Hybrid cars remain a niche choice, but the Lexus ES will be a serious executive contender when the majority of car buyers plug into the electric revolution.

The BMW 3 Series is a household name – which means this all-new version has a lot riding on it. So does it live up to expectations? We find out.

The C-Class does all of the things you’d want a premium saloon to do. It’s comfortable over long distances and comes with plenty of standard equipment.

The Volvo S60 is an excellent alternative to current and forthcoming German rivals. It’s well built, beautifully finished and looks good out on the road.

The Kia Stinger GT-Line is a compelling package with all the credentials to take the fight to more premium German rivals from Audi and BMW.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS 400d ticks many of the boxes that you’d find yourself needing to be ticked when looking for a comfortable, long-distance cruiser.

The new Peugeot 508 surprises in many areas. Visually it is highly attractive and it offers quality in both construction and performance.

The Honda Civic 4 Door is a perfectly decent machine, but will the SUV-mad public be interested in a saloon version of Honda’s family hatchback?

The Mazda6 is a viable option to the Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Insignia and VW Passat. It even exceeds those rivals in some areas, such as its safety package.

The Audi A6 has all the hallmarks of a new class leader in the executive saloon segment, with bags of technology and comfort wrapped in a handsome body.

More than ever, the Skoda Superb will provide large executive car buyers with all they will require – whether they are stepping out of a Volkswagen Passat or a BMW 5 Series.