The new CT200h could be spot on, but as it's a hybrid, it won't prove as economical as a diesel for long distance motorway driving. While the larger Lexus models are very good, we're not big fans of the smaller IS and the CT200h looks like it could be similar, which means it's unlikely to ride very well - although we won't know until it's launched later this year.

The XJ is a hard car to beat for long distance comfort, so anything smaller is unlikely to feel as luxurious. The new Jaguar XF is a very comfortable and refined saloon, but if that's too big and you want smaller, something such as an Audi A4 is a good all-rounder and very smooth riding, as long as you avoid the S Line models which have sports suspension and larger wheels.