GERMAN premium manufacturer Audi has got the contract hire market sewn up amongst companies which operate small fleets.
Thats according to Comparecontracthire.com which has revealed the top five most popular cars amongst small fleet operaters who have visited its site and bought a car over the past two months.
The web company says that the lack of a structured fleet policy means that, when it comes to sourcing new cars, companies have a free choice and tend to opt for a mix of the three Ps - Prestige, Practicality, and Price.
By far the most popular brand with small fleets is Audi, says Comparecontracthire.com, representing more orders received than any other. Most popular individual model is the A4 2.0D which offers four door practicality and some brand equity with the neighbours.
Second is the BMW 320D with low emissions and brand credibility cited as the main reasons for the cars success.
Biggest surprise is the Mazdas 6 popularity at number three. With the same dynamics package as the Ford Mondeo and excellent equipment levels the Mazda is a sensible alternative to more mainstream brands, according to Comparecontracthire.com
The five best sellers in the companys listings are all powered by two-litre diesel engines. SMEs (Small to Medium Enterprises) obviously want something that gives them status, but the popularity of diesel shows that they obviously have costs in mind when choosing a company car, says Comparecontracthire.coms managing director Robert Wastell.
Comparecontracthire.coms small fleet top five
1. Audi A4 2.0D
2. BMW 320D
3. Mazda6 2.0D
4. VW Golf 2.0D
5. Volvo V50 2.0D