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Mercedes-Benz or BMW: choosing an executive hire car

Premium and executive hire · 5 November 2026

Mercedes-Benz and BMW are the two names most people think of when they picture an executive car, and our fleet includes both. If you're choosing between them for a hire in London, the right answer depends less on the badge and more on the trip. Here's how to decide.

Start with the trip, not the marque

Before choosing a marque, choose the type of car:

  • A saloon for business travel, client meetings and long, comfortable drives.
  • An SUV for passengers, luggage and a higher driving position.

Both marques offer both types in our fleet, so you can choose the type first, then the car that suits you within it. See saloon hire and SUV hire.

How drivers often describe them

Every driver has their own preference, but people choosing between the two often describe them in similar terms:

  • Mercedes-Benz is often chosen for comfort and a calm, refined feel on a long journey.
  • BMW is often chosen by drivers who enjoy a sportier, more engaging drive.

Neither is better. They're different, and the best choice is the one that suits how you like to drive and what the trip needs.

Choosing for business

If you're hiring for client meetings, think about the impression you want to make and the comfort of your passengers. A refined saloon from either marque says "established" without saying "showy". If you'll spend the day on the motorway between meetings, choose the car you'll be most comfortable driving for hours.

For regular business hire, a business account keeps every hire, charge and document in one place.

Choosing for a family or a group

If you're travelling with family or a group, the type matters more than the badge. Choose an SUV for space and luggage, then pick the model you prefer.

Choosing for an occasion

For an anniversary, a celebration or a weekend away, choose the car you'll enjoy. If you want something beyond the executive range, see our performance cars.

What to check on the car page

Every car on our cars page shows:

  • its photos and key details, such as gearbox, fuel and year;
  • its "from" day rate;
  • live availability for your dates.

Choose your dates to see what's free and the full price for your hire before you book.

The same service, whichever you choose

Whichever car you choose, the hire works the same way. Insurance is included for drivers over 25. You pay a £100 booking deposit, which comes off your hire price, and a refundable security deposit. Every hire comes with a customer experience manager and our support line, open from 8am to 8pm, and a photo inspection with you at collection and return.

Still deciding?

Call us and tell us about your trip. We'd rather help you choose the right car than have you settle for the wrong one.

Ready when you are.