A unique survey into the UK’s chauffeur industry has shown the Mercedes-Benz E-Class to be the most popular chauffeur vehicle – according to industry publication The Chauffeur magazine.

It is the first time a survey of this scale has been carried out on the chauffeur sector which has always been dominated by the three-pointed star. But in the days of more competition from Germany, it seems as if the manufacturer has retained its lead.

The E-Class Saloon range was shown to be the chauffeurs favourite with readers operating anything from a single vehicle to many hundreds of them. Its outstanding diesel economy and passenger comfort seem to be the main reasons chauffeurs are buying the E-Class.

The Chauffeur magazine, which is the dedicated trade magazine for the limousine and chauffeur industry, conducted the survey over a twelve month period through its publication and online at www.thechauffeur.com . Those who took part gave details about the vehicles they operated, their thoughts on the industry and how they think manufacturers should treat a chauffeur when entering a showroom.

Due to be published in the September issue of The Chauffeur magazine, the Mercedes-Benz brand has been sandwiched between Rolls-Royce which is second in the list. The manufacturer was delighted to learn the S-Class is the third most popular vehicle being operated.

Adrian Freeman, Strategic Account Manager Mercedes-Benz commented: “The E-Class range is very popular to a wide range of customers, but we are especially proud to receive this accolade from the chauffeur sector.  The business needs of these important clients are extremely demanding; they expect and need the very best. It is great to see that Mercedes-Benz and the E-Class delivers what they require.  In fact, we have just launched a special E-Class Executive edition too, reinforcing our commitment to professional drivers.”

Other vehicles listed in the top fifteen most popular are the Chrysler Voyager, Jaguar XJ, BMW 7-Series and the Audi A8.