Always a byword for luxury, albeit in saloon format, the Mercedes S-Class is something of a default choice for many in this market, and with good reason. Effortless comfort, sleek, unostentatious looks, and some really neat tech help the S-Class assert itself, while the stunning interior (the ambient lighting really is something to behold) speaks for itself. The S 580 e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can go 67 miles on battery power alone, too.

Toyota's iconic off-roader returned last year with renewed purpose. Now motivated by a four-cylinder hybrid powertrain good for a combined 326-hp, it shares its bones with the Lexus GX and has been downsized slightly, losing its third row in the process. The LC's newfound tidiness puts it in line with other legendary trail experts, such as the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler.

It may traditionally play second fiddle to the S-Class in the luxury car stakes, and the latest version may be a little too assertive at the front for some tastes, but we'd say the 7 Series has a better interior, with the standout feature being the vast widescreen that folds down from the roof for back-seat passengers. All this comes at a price, naturally, but many may think it worth it given the plushness and tech on offer. The 750e does 54 miles on battery power and goes from 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds, while the 760e adds more power, but costs higher.

To say the Porsche Panamera is good to drive is like saying Beethoven's fourth piano concerto is a nice piece of music: it's true, but somewhat underselling it. So while the Mercedes S-Class and Range Rover in particular promote comfort above almost everything, the Panamera blends what is certianly an excellent, well-appointed cabin, with one of the most engaging driving experiences offered in a four-door car. The E-Hybrid can hit 60mph from a standstill in under four seconds, can cruise in electric mode for 33 miles officially, and has low CO2 emissions that make it attractive for company car drivers.

It would be a struggle to describe any car with a circa-£60k pricetag as affordable, but in this company the Volvo S90, as with the Lexus RX, is a positive bargain. The T8 version of the posh Volvo saloon blends serious (455hp) power with impressive (353mpg) efficiency, while also offering an electric range of 55 miles (all figures are official, so require dilligent application of both a plug and your right foot to achieve). Either way, the S90's cabin is a masterclass in simple elegance, while the big Volvo is genuinely relaxing and cosseting to drive, blending this with enough power to put a smile on your face as it heads to 60mph from rest in just 4.8 seconds.