The best diesel cars

The latest Land Rover Defender isn't just for off-roading. Indeed, while it's wonderfully capable in the rough stuff, it's also a very accomplished SUV on the road, with comfy air suspension as standard (if you go for the 110 model) and a luxurious interior. Diesel versions of the Defender all use the same 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with mild hybrid assistance to help keep your fuel bills under control, and of these it's the 296bhp D300 that has the most grunt. Indeed, it can haul the Defender to 62mph in just 7.0sec. 

Diesel power suits the Audi Q5 large SUV very well, and the 201bhp 40 TDI diesel engine we recommend is one of the most impressive options in the range, feeling effortlessly strong from low down in the rev range, and benefitting from mild hybrid assistance to help assist the engine and reduce fuel consumption. Elsewhere, the Q5 is a fairly practical choice, with an interior that's a touch above most other options in this class. It features top-notch materials and feels well put together, and is loaded with useful technology, including an infotainment system that's easier to get along with than the one in the rival Volvo XC60.

Our reigning Coupé of the Year, the latest BMW 4 Series marries jaw-dropping looks with an engaging drive and even a relatively practical interior. We like both the range-topping M440i and the entry level 420i petrols, but if you'll be covering lots of miles it's the 420d diesel that we'd point you towards. It's powerful, with lots of low-down grunt to get you moving quickly, yet shouldn't cost a lot to run.

If you're in the market for a luxury SUV then you clearly appreciate the finer things in life, and we think the 282bhp 50 TDI diesel engine in the Audi Q7 is one such finer thing. It pulls effortlessly from low revs and can get you up to motorway speeds in just 6.2sec. Combine that with the Q7's other strengths, namely a beautifully made interior, lots of space for your family and all their luggage, and a comfy ride, and it's easy to see why this is a five-star luxury SUV. In fact, we reckon it's the most comfortable luxury SUV you can buy.

If big is beautiful, then the BMW X7 should be in the National Portrait Gallery. You see, it's the largest SUV BMW makes, and as such has acres of space on board for you, your passengers, and the kitchen sink they may wish to bring with them. It's so good, in fact, that we named it as the Best Luxury SUV for Big Families at the most recent What Car? Awards. Hauling around a heavy hitter like the X7 is best suited to a grunty diesel engine, and the xDrive40d model we recommend has 335bhp on tap to make the task as easy as asking for a refill of champagne.

A popular choice with company car drivers for its mile-munching ability and comfort, the latest Audi A4 is a fine example of a car that's best suited to a diesel engine. It's the entry level 161bhp 35 TDI option that's our favourite, because it mixes low-down punch with the kind of fuel economy that will have you and your accountant smiling. Elsewhere, it's well built inside, with high-quality materials which place it a cut above many of its rivals.

A former What Car? Car of the Year, the BMW 5 Series remains the best luxury car you can buy. It offers all the comfort, class and technology you could want, at a price that makes it look like a bargain compared with some of its class rivals. The entry-level 520d diesel engine provides all the power you'll need, too, being able to hit 62mph in just 7.2sec, while also keeping your running costs in check thanks to mild hybrid assistance.

The Skoda Superb Estate is the best car of its kind, offering more space than any family could reasonably want, along with the comfort and mile-munching ability to make even long journeys seem like a walk in the park. The 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine is our pick of the Superb range, because it offers the kind of low-down grunt that will be especially useful if you plan on towing or regularly carrying heavy loads.

Picture the typical company car in your head, and the chances are that you're thinking of a BMW 3 Series. This stylish yet practical executive saloon is as synonymous with the executive car class as jam is with bread, and the good news is that it's the best car of its kind. The entry-level 148bhp 318d diesel engine has enough pull for most situations, but we'd recommend increasing your budget to get the 187bhp 320d if you can afford to, since you'll appreciate its extra punch.

The Range Rover Evoque is one of the most stylish SUVs you can buy, and there's plenty of substance to back up those eye-catching looks. It's well equipped, gives you a great driving position and hold its value brilliantly. Go for our recommended D200 diesel and you'll enjoy smooth acceleration as well as enough punch to execute swift overtakes. If you're in the market for a diesel-engined car, it's the model we recommend the most.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here