On the move, the E-Class favours comfort and refinement over driving fun, yet the car’s easy-going character makes it a relaxing choice. There’s a wide range of petrol and diesel engines to choose from, but be aware that on the plug-in hybrid versions the boot capacity shrinks by 155 litres. Also, the Merc’s combination of space, luxury and tech doesn’t come cheap, with prices starting at £50,000-plus.
Skoda Superb
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If you want to bag the maximum boot space for your buck, look no further than the Skoda Superb. A recent facelift has given the Czech machine sharper exterior looks and an even more upmarket interior, but crucially it’s added additional boot space. At 690 litres the Skoda now offers 30 litres more capacity than its predecessor, while with the rear bench lowered it serves up a whopping 1,920 litres (although, as with the Mercedes E-Class, plug-in models provide less space).
In fact, the Superb is so roomy you’re likely to run out of belongings before you fill the boot. Better still, thanks to the firm’s Simply Clever design approach, the Skoda’s load area is full of useful hooks, cubbies and load-securing solutions. Occupants fare just as well, with rear passengers getting limo-like levels of legroom. Better still, the Superb is great to drive, with a range of eager engines and a finely judged balance between agile handling and smooth ride.
Volkswagen Passat
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Practicality is clearly a key selling point for the Volkswagen Passat, because ever since the ninth-generation model went on sale earlier this year it has been available only as an estate. Slow sales of the saloon meant it was ditched from price lists, leaving the classy and capacious wagon as the only option. Based on the same platform as the Skoda Superb, it’s no surprise to find the Volkswagen shares the same generous carrying capacity as its Czech mate, with 690 litres of boot space with the rear seats in place, and 1,920 litres when the bench is lowered.
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