You can identify a saloon car by its long, sleek and sophisticated exterior. Typically comprising a lengthy bonnet and compressed body, saloon cars usually have four doors. The archetypal elegant car model, these vehicles can be identified by their boots, which sit separately from the rest of the car and usually sticks out further than one that is built in.
Apart from these basic pointers, there are several variations of this vehicle. While some manufacturers design their saloons with comfort at the forefront, others are renowned for having high-class technology. Saloons are versatile and can be used for a range of different purposes and are suitable for everybody. They are popular family vehicles, although they mainly attract professionals who use the car for business.
What is the meaning of saloon car?
When you hear the word ‘saloon’, you may think of cowboys drinking in a public bar in the Wild West. That’s because saloon bars and saloon cars both derive from the same French word, ‘salon’, which roughly translates to a large room. In the 18th century, the variation ‘saloon’ came to be associated with enclosed cars with spacious passenger compartments.
A saloon vehicle is currently defined as ‘having a closed body and a closed boot separated from the part in which the driver and passengers sit’. Saloons are more commonly referred to as sedans in America and also go by the name ‘passenger’ car. This refers to the fact that these cars tend to have three main compartments: one for the engine, one for the passengers, and one for the cargo.
What are the best saloon cars?
Successful brands will continue to manufacture and develop the timeless and sophisticated saloon. They are celebrated by the likes of Audi and Mercedes, as well as created by companies such as Kia and Hyundai. But, what are some of the most popular saloon cars?
- BMW 5 Series saloon.
This vehicle is one of the most well-rounded saloon cars on the market. With comfort, technology, space and practicality all rating highly, this model is also popular for general driving pleasure. Available in petrol and diesel engine models, it’s a dynamic car which is perfect for any purpose.
- Mercedes E-Class saloon.
The stylish exterior of the E-Class is equally as elegant as its classy interior. Designed with comfort in mind, the car is made with quality materials for a modern, deluxe appearance. The diesel range is especially popular, for the vehicles are economical but very powerful. Innovative and modern, technology meets luxury in this stylish saloon.
- Audi A4 saloon.
The Audi A4 has ranked above competitors for its minimalist look and incredible design. The car rivals the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, as it’s a great all-rounder and a pioneer in compact executive saloons. Smaller than the standard saloon, the vehicle has been designed with a spacious interior and is popular for the range of engines available – from economy to power and general practicality.
- Volvo S90 saloon.
This particular design is quite unusual for a saloon, with a more boxy appearance opposed to the traditional rounded exterior. Nonetheless, the car is sleek and sophisticated with a luxurious interior, centred around an impressive 9-inch touchscreen system. The perfect car for those drivers looking for a supreme combination of overall appearance and comfort levels, the vehicle looks striking after dark with its ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights.
- Mazda6 saloon.
A more unusual choice of family car, the Mazda6 is renowned for its safety. At first glance, you’ll notice the rounded, stylish exterior and find that the sophisticated appearance matches the smart interior. It’s economical, renowned for its reliability and ranks highly for driver satisfaction.
What is a super saloon car?
A super saloon is basically a more powerful saloon car. It follows the same specification of having a separate boot compartment, although super saloons have a higher amount of horsepower. The current market for super saloons is extremely competitive, with German manufacturers usually coming out on top. With power and performance the key factors to distinguish a saloon from a super saloon, which super saloons are the best?
- BMW M3 saloon.
Described as a high-performance version of the 3 series, the BMW M3 is considered one of the best super saloons on the market. It was designed for racing enthusiasts with an M TwinPower Turbo engine and is praised for its incredible acceleration and handling.
- Mercedes-AMG C63 S.
The twin-turbocharged V8 engine is a force to be reckoned with in this saloon. It’s not a quiet vehicle, an aspect which drivers argue is part of its old-school charm, however, its handling is steady and accurate for such a powerful vehicle – partly why this ranks as one of the best.
- Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
This Italian powerhouse is up there in quality with its German competitors. This super saloon’s sleek appearance looks striking when it glides on the road and has been commended for its composition, handling and overall driving pleasure.