The luxury car sector has often centred around two stalwart models: the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S Class.
While these plush saloons are still considered by many to be the peak of automotive decadence, the definition of a luxury car has evolved significantly over the past few years.
Saloons do remain reasonably popular in the rich man’s world, but the increasing prevalence of SUVs means that the traditional view of what constitutes a luxury vehicle has shifted dramatically.
Regardless of whether it's a saloon or an SUV, a luxury car is a premium model that excels in performance, technology and comfort for all occupants. These vehicles boast lavish interiors, offer a quiet ride and demonstrate impressive noise reduction compared with other model types.
For many, they also serve as status symbols, powered by diverse powertrains ranging from large-capacity diesel engines and V8s to electric and plug-in hybrid systems.
To help you choose, we've put together a list of the top 10 best luxury cars out there right now.
Despite the rise of SUVs, our top pick is the BMW i7, the electric version of the latest 7 Series. It's super comfortable, great to drive and seriously practical.
It's worth noting that some prominent luxury brands may not appear on this list. For even pricier models, including those from Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Mercedes-Maybach, we have a separate list of the top 10 best super-luxury cars.
Best for: All-around luxury
The new BMW 7 Series is all about five-star cosseting and cutting-edge tech, and the electric version, badged the BMW i7, sits at the top of our list of best luxury cars.
Regardless of which powertrain you choose, you're unlikely to lose the big BMW in a crowd. Not only is it a vast machine, but also the slab-sided styling and gargantuan front grille mean the 7 Series is a 'challenging' aesthetic proposition.
Not so the interior, which sets the i7 apart from its predecessors, with acres of space to lounge around in, the latest technology and the highest-quality materials, including the surprisingly indulgent cashmere wool trim you can choose for the seats.
Driving the 7 Series is as good as anything else in the class, with up to 538bhp plus a supple and controlled ride that easily matches the best efforts of the Range Rover and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
One of our gripes with the new 7 Series (aside from its questionable looks) is the i7's range. It's officially claimed to stand at 385 miles, but our tests returned a disappointing 264 miles.
Read our BMW i7 review