Are you looking to upgrade your commute? Research from the Trade Union Congress shows the average daily commute now clocks in at 59 minutes – or 221 hours a year. Finding the best commuter car for you could make your most frequent journey that bit more tolerable.
There are other modes of transport of course – yet the car continues to be our preferred method of getting to and from work. The RAC Foundation reports that 16.7 million of 26.5 million workers in England and Wales either drive or catch a lift. It dominates in rural and urban areas alike; whether zooming along country lanes or nipping around the city.
So just what is a good commuter car? The first thing on most wish lists is comfort. Think climate control air conditioning for sweltering afternoon rush hours and heated seats for frosty starts. Smartphone connectivity allows you to dictate your soundtrack and take calls safely, while a sat-nav is handy for avoiding traffic jams.
Economy and reliability are crucial too. After all, nobody wants to spend a large chunk of their wage on fuel or repairs. Smart looks meanwhile will help maintain your reputation in the office car park. Whatever your needs and preferences, we’ve rounded up seven vehicles below that are ready to go to work. They come in a range of types and sizes but share many of the attributes that might make your commute more pleasurable.
Peugeot 2008 SUV
The new Peugeot 2008 SUV is a compact SUV with a raft of class-leading technology features to keep you safe while your coffee kicks in. Depending on your selected trim level you could benefit from automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and driver attention monitoring – all handy for rush hour traffic.
A range of petrol, diesel and all-electric models allows you to choose the best car for your daily commute. Its 360-litre boot and spacious interior meanwhile is perfect if you need to transport extra kit or colleagues.
DS 3 CROSSBACK
Another compact SUV equally equipped for country and city roads, the luxury DS 3 CROSSBACK will only contribute to your sharp professional image. Its good looks inside and out display an attention to detail your professional connections are bound to appreciate.
The CROSSBACK is one of the best cars for long commutes too, with smart headlights allowing you to use your main beam at night without dazzling other drivers. And with a 12-speaker sound system, you’ll get total clarity whether listening to music or taking a call.
Citroen C3 Aircross SUV
If it’s space and comfort you need, look no further than the Citroen C3 Aircross SUV. It wouldn’t win the ‘Compact Crossover of the Year’ trophy in the Company Car Today CCT100 Awards for storage alone.. The C3 Aircross also offers a range of efficient engines and funky customisation options for a great value too.
A choice of five interior ambiences, comfort features and a panoramic glass sunroof bathing the interior with light make it ideal for unwinding after a long day at work.
Vauxhall Corsa
Moving down in size, the Vauxhall Corsa is a tempting company car choice and one of the best cars for a high mileage commute thanks to low emissions and strong fuel economy. It’s perhaps one of the most recognisable vehicles on our roads − yet a significant upgrade for 2020 introduces a variety of new exterior and interior features.
Dependent on your chosen version, heated front and leather massage seats will get you to and from work as relaxed as can be.
Peugeot e-208
Or perhaps you’re searching for the best electric car for commuting? Meet the Peugeot e-208, a 100% electric addition to the classic Peugeot 208 line. Don’t think it’s just the best car for a short commute though; the e-208 boasts a driving range of up to 217 miles and can be easily recharged at home or at a workplace charging station.
You’ll pay out less for fuel and servicing while avoiding city centre entrance charges. And when there’s no time to waste, you can pre-programme heating, air con and windscreen defrosting from your phone using the MyPeugeot app.
Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport
Designed with European company car drivers in mind, the Vauxhall Insignia offers exceptional long-distance comfort, low running costs and plenty of toys and safety features. But what about something a little sleeker?
Step forward the Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport. Revamped styling, extra interior space and improved fuel economy all bolster its CV. Its high-quality Bose sound system can motivate you to tackle any workload, while wireless phone charging will keep you available on the move.
Peugeot 508 SW Plug-In Hybrid
The Peugeot 508 SW Plug-in Hybrid is another economical commuter car and the top estate car in Peugeot’s plug-in hybrid range. Combining a 1.6L PureTech petrol engine with an 80kW electric motor, it offers a smooth and serene ride whether alone or transporting a colleague or client.
Switch to electric-only driving to reduce your emissions to zero on shorter errands. You’ll enjoy the fuel efficiency you’d expect from a hybrid vehicle along with plenty of space, comfort and features. Its frameless windows are a particular highlight for design enthusiasts.
Find the best commuter car for you with Robins & Day
Do you fancy arriving at work or home every day in a better mood? It’s easy to secure yourself the best commuter car for UK roads with Robins & Day. We have a range of new and used cars from Citroen, DS, Peugeot and Vauxhall – plus an expert team on hand to help pick yours out.
Once you have found your perfect vehicle contact your local dealership to find out more and make your commute more enjoyable.