The article was originally produced on December 17, 2014, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

3 X family station wagon

The absolute most important class among company cars!

During the autumn, three very important models from Ford, Peugeot and Volkswagen were launched. It is about combi cars in the middle class, which are the car model that sells the most in the company car sector. It is also about the most attractive cars for the Swedish family where the Volvo V70 is the king of the mountain. But the question is whether it still is after these three models start rolling on Swedish roads. Starta and Driva Företag takes a closer look at the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 508 and Volkswagen Passat here.

Ford Mondeo – A long wait is over.

Already in 2012, the new Mondeon was shown at the Paris Motor Show. The previous generation had then been out since 2008. But then came the economic downturn, which meant that the fifth generation Mondeo had to be put on hold - a big blow to the brand. But now, a year and a half later, the car is finally ready to drive. What stands out the most is Ford's new design language. The Aston Martin-like grill is really nice and makes the otherwise rather low-key mid-range hatchback stand out from the crowd. Ford has also put a lot of thought into the safety concept and is the first in Sweden to have airbags inside the rear seat belts. Something that should reduce the damage to the younger passengers in the back who are not able to receive as strong blows as an adult. In this class, it is important to cram the car full of technology in all forms. Ford uses an infotainment system from Microsoft called Sync and now in version 2.0. This is controlled via the 10-inch touchscreen in the center console. The Mondeo is equipped as standard with a safety system that brakes the car in an emergency. With a plethora of engine options, the new Ford Mondeo is exactly what the brand needs to overcome a period of decline.

Peugeot 508 SW – A stylish updated French.

Peugeot's contribution for private and company car customers is called the 508 SW. This is a stylish and sober station wagon that you sit really well in. Unlike the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, this is an update of the previous 508 that was launched in 2011. Most of the new things, apart from the stylish grill and the rear end, can be found under the hood. Among the new engines now offered, all meet the Euro 6 standard. In Sweden, the petrol engine with 120 horsepower and the 150 and 180 horsepower diesel will be offered above all. If you choose the large diesel, it comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. Comfortable seats and a soft chassis make the journey very comfortable in the 508. Even the passengers in the back sit really well with plenty of space. Something that has also been properly updated is the feeling of quality and the choice of materials. This is needed in this class where buyers are very discerning. The 508 actually breathes premium in the driving environment. A seven-inch touchscreen controls most of the technology, such as the infotainment system and navigation.

Volkswagen Passat – A completely new level in the segment.

Who would have thought that the Volkswagen Passat would become what it is today if told twenty years ago. The new Passat raises the bar for the standard in the class and it must be difficult for the competition to keep up. When Ford went to its knees and had to postpone the launch of the new Mondeo, Volkswagen took the opportunity to release an updated version of the previous generation Passat that completely took over the market. There is no doubt that the level of technology is sky high. For example, you can get a system that helps when reversing a trailer, with the joystick that you use to adjust the rear view mirrors, you control where the car will eventually end up. The new Passat swallows more than a whale or at least a Volvo V70, in fact 180 liters more with the backrests folded down. The new appearance, both outside and inside, also signals the new level Volkswagen has reached. With the Traffic Jam Assist system, the car allows you to relax behind the wheel, the car both steers, accelerates and brakes as long as you have one hand on the wheel, a dream for all morning and afternoon situations in traffic jams. A practical system that is also available at Ford is the one that means you just kick the lift under the rear end and the tailgate opens. Perfect if you come home from the store with your hands full.