5. Tesla Model 3
Best for: tech and performance
Anyone considering an executive car should give serious thought to the Tesla Model 3. With an excellent range from its large battery, fast recharging and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, life with a Model 3 is about as easy as things get where EVs are concerned.
Don’t forget to factor in a serious turn of speed, too, as this electric car can keep up with serious performance machines in a straight line at least. The interior may be a little too minimalist for some tastes, and build quality can be slightly inconsistent, but those are about the only downsides.
6. Volvo V60
Best for: safety and serenity
The Volvo S60 saloon is no longer available to buy in the UK, but the V60 estate returned after a short hiatus and is still a great alternative to a 3 Series Touring. With Volvo’s minimalist but beautifully trimmed interior, it’s a great place to sit, and to drive it’s both comfortable and relaxed.
You should have no concerns over safety either, with Volvo’s record pretty much the best in the business.
7. Alfa Romeo Giulia
Best for: handling and fun
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is brilliant but flawed: on the one hand it looks amazing and handles like a proper sports car, while on the other interior quality isn’t as strong as it could be and the rear seats are tight.
But perfection is boring while character is compelling, and you’re unlikely to be bored in the Giulia. Just to give you an idea of how focussed its design team was on making it handle well, all models – from the standard 2.2-litre diesel to the 510hp Quadrifoglio performance version – have a carbon-fibre propshaft for strength and lightness in the drivetrain.
7. BMW i4
Best for: being an electric 3 Series
The BMW i4 is undeniably a little overlooked in BMW’s EV range – it’s not as glamorous as the larger i5 or i7, or as practical as the iX1 or iX3 SUVs. But it’s better to drive than any of them, with great handling from its compact, low-slung body.
Range and charging isn’t up there with the best EVs as the i4 is a few years old now, but if you want something that’s as close as possible to a 3 Series while also being electric, this is your best option.
9. Peugeot 3008
Best for: something totally different for the money
Now this comes a bit from the left field – the Peugeot 3008 isn’t something that would necessarily be on your shopping list, but it’s worth noting that this is a great, premium-feeling SUV – and for the same price as a basic 3 Series you can get a range-topping 3008 with some change.
And you won’t feel like you’ve taken a step down in the world once you’re sat inside. The 3008’s interior is honestly lovely – it’s made with posh materials and the design is stunning. Choose from a slightly sluggish hybrid or the much more powerful plug-in model, or you can even go for a fully electric E-3008.
10. Skoda Superb
Best for: families with lots of clutter
If you find you’ve outgrown your BMW 3 Series, look no further than the Skoda Superb. This is a truly cavernous family car – the boot is huge, the back seats are palatial, and it’s packed with smart storage solutions and extra little touches bundled under Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ mantra.
It’s also great to drive, being so good on a cruise that we awarded it the Comfortable Cruiser gong in the 2025 Carwow Car of the Year awards. It’s a fab all-rounder and one that won’t feel like a downgrade from even the fanciest 3 Series.
