The Caravelle Business performs the role of ‘boardroom on wheels’ better than any similarly-priced luxury saloons, but there are a few compromises – from a driver’s perspective, the fact that it’s available only from VW van centres (offering a restricted network compared with some) and particularly when viewed as a status symbol.

But how comfortable would a chief executive or chairman feel in these austere times to be seen by employees being driven around in a ‘status symbol’ with a premium badge?

The Caravelle Business is a true business-need vehicle and in those terms it beats all comers.

The rivals

• BMW 730d BP L SE
• Jaguar XJ 3.0d Premium Lux
• Mercedes-Benz S350 Bluetec SE

P11D price

Caravelle is the most expensive ‘limousine’ here on P11D price but not by much.

730d             £62,020
XJ                £62,835
S350            £65,455
Caravelle     £65,655

Tax and CO2

Van levels of CO2 emissions hamper the Caravelle’s environmental performance compared with hi-tech luxury saloon rivals.

730d            148g/km/24%
S350            148g/km/24%
XJ                167g/km/28%
Caravelle     214g/km/35%

Fuel costs

The Caravelle’s van origins (and aerodynamics) make it a challenge for it to get near luxury saloon rivals on fuel costs.

730d            12.5ppm
S350            12.5ppm
XJ                14.06ppm
Caravelle     18.05ppm

Running costs

The Caravelle Business, through an expectionally strong RV and lower SMR costs overtakes its rivals despite higher fuel costs.

Caravelle       78.77ppm/£63,016
730d              80.53ppm/£64,424
S350             80.76ppm/£64,608
XJ                 85.13ppm£68,104

Leasing rates

The Caravelle takes second place for monthly lease rates behind the strongly supported 730d. Data from www.comparecontracthire.com.

730d              £784 (Fleethire)
Caravelle       £963 (TCH Leasing)
XJ                 £963 (Fleethire)
S350            £1,009 (Days)

Verdict

VIPs used to be in chauffeured in luxury saloons might take convincing, but the Caravelle Business makes strong argument as a business use vehicle and, importantly, on costs.

Winner: VW Caravelle Business