Opportunities: 3 large business limousines for less than 20,000 euros

Not so long ago, large mid-size cars were still very popular business cars. The fact that they fell out of favor with the lease driver doesn’t mean you aren’t making a good buy on the occasion. These three options are not too expensive to use, but still ride majestically.

In the 1990s, almost all leased drivers drove D-segment models. Most corporate cars are now smaller and of a different vehicle type. As in the entire market, it is the SUVs that are by far the most popular.

Three large business limousines for less than 20,000 euros

Ford Mondeo (2015 – 2019)

The Mondeo has been a bestseller in the business market for many years. The driving comfort of the big Ford is not to be despised. At cruising speed it’s nice and quiet, while the D-segmenter is firm but certainly not overly harsh. You won’t lack for anything in the interior either. The hatchback offers 550 liters of luggage space.

You can get the Ford with a 1.0-litre petrol engine, but that power source is just a tad too small for such a big car. The modern 1.5 performs better and, in combination with a six-speed automatic gearbox, even achieves an average consumption of 1 in 12. At a dealership in Schiedam we find a dark gray 1.5 ‘Titanium’ (2016, 82,000 km) for €19,745.

Roadside assistance verdict

On this Mondeo generation, roadside assistance has some minor flaws that are more common. If the hazard warning lights do not want to go out, the switch is simply plugged into the dashboard. A minor malfunction in the automatic transmission means that the dashboard remains active. After one night your battery is empty. The roadside assistance will of course solve this for you.

Opel badge (2017 – 2022)

The modern appearance of this Insignia appeals to many. The interior is not only beautiful, but also very spacious. However, the coupé-like roof line makes it difficult to get into the rear. At 490 liters, the luggage compartment is slightly smaller than in the other used cars on this page. The AGR seats are recommended for those who often drive long distances. These seats used to be optional, so make sure your choice of used one has them on board!

The Opel drives pleasantly, with cultivated suspension comfort. The smallest 1.5-liter turbo is already powerful enough with 140 hp and good for an average consumption of 1 in 15. At a dealership in Hengelo we come across around 1.5 (165 hp, 2018, 35,000 km) for €19,950 .

Roadside assistance verdict

In terms of quality, Opel has made this Insignia a very good car. Complaints that used to circulate about the 1.4 liter engine no longer appear with the newer 1.5. Of course, something can always go wrong, even if it’s just a flat tire or a dead battery, but even then the roadside assistance is happy to help the unfortunate Opel driver back on the road.

VW Passat (2014 – 2019)

The Opel and Ford came in hatchbacks and sedans, but the Passat has always had a butt. Nevertheless, the Passat offers the largest luggage compartment of this trio with a volume of 586 liters. It’s also pleasantly spacious inside, although the roofline is a bit low. The fully digital dashboard can be designed according to your own taste.

The 1.4-litre petrol engine is already strong and smooth enough. The Volkswagen is the most expensive of these three mid-range cars to buy. That’s why we end up with an older copy. However, the black 1.4 TSI “Highline” (2018, 92,000km) for sale at a dealership in Zwaag remains a formidable competitor to the other used cars on this page.

Roadside assistance verdict

The TSI and TFSI engines consume more oil than normal. Constantly checking and refilling is the motto. If the oil filter is clogged, you’ve probably delayed a service too long. An immediate oil change is then required to avoid engine damage. The fuel tap sometimes refuses to work and then roadside assistance has to force it open. Finally, the DSG automatic transmission can malfunction. If a “reset” doesn’t help, it’s the harbinger of an automatic overhaul.

Our tips for the occasions

A large middle class is an ideal family and commercial vehicle. In this case, there is no “wrong” choice. In this case, we would prefer the Opel Insignia due to the quality and competitive offering of the example car.