The New Badges of Business: Rethinking What You Drive

A Fresh Era on the Road

Enter a dynamic group of brands like Hyundai, Kia, Cupra, Polestar, Škoda, and Jaecoo amongst many others. These manufacturers are not just alternatives anymore; they are at the forefront of a movement promoting affordable luxury where exceptional design, groundbreaking technology, and impressive efficiency come standard.

Rethinking Brand Perception

While some may still associate Hyundai and Kia primarily with family-friendly vehicles, their latest models like the cutting-edge Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the award-winning Kia EV6 tell a different story. These stunning cars deliver a premium experience that feels modern and sophisticated, flawlessly combining minimalist Scandinavian design with advanced technology for a truly captivating driving experience.

Cupra has emerged from SEAT’s performance division as an emblem of sporty individuality. With models like the Cupra Born, an electric hatchback that balances practicality and sheer exhilaration, Cupra is capturing the hearts of those who crave a unique driving experience.

Škoda has transformed remarkably, moving beyond its previous reputation for value to offer a premium feel with models like the Enyaq SUV. This SUV impresses with its luxurious interior and exterior while remaining refreshingly affordable.

Then we have Polestar, a brand that attracts design-driven professionals with a commitment to sustainability. With roots in Volvo engineering, Polestar is all about blending quiet performance with understated elegance that impresses at every turn.

And let’s not overlook Jaecoo, a vibrant newcomer from China that is shaking up the market with bold styling, sumptuous interiors, and impressive technology, all available at highly competitive prices. Accountants and other savvy consumers will appreciate Jaecoo's unmatched value and high specifications.

Luxury Redefined: More of What Matters Most

Traditionally, comfort, technology, and refinement were confined to the high-end market, but today’s rising stars are flipping that script! The new generation of vehicles boasts features that were once the exclusive domain of luxury brands, such as panoramic roofs, adaptive lighting, seamless connectivity, head-up displays, and a serene driving experience.

Stepping inside one of these modern EVs or hybrids feels more like entering an upscale lounge than a conventional car. The emphasis has shifted from sheer excess to delivering unparalleled experiences that prioritize smooth driving, calm interiors, intuitive layouts, and technology that enhances rather than detracts from the enjoyment of driving. For many professionals, this evolution signifies a shift toward greater practicality without sacrificing prestige.

Why ICAEW Members Are Taking Notice

Accountants have a knack for spotting value, and these new vehicles are designed with that principle in mind. Enjoy long warranties, reduced running costs, and abundant features. It's luxury reimagined as sensible and beneficial.

With brands like Kia and Hyundai offering impressive seven-year warranties, and Polestar and Cupra using proven platforms fortified by advanced safety features and regular software updates, you can’t go wrong. Jaecoo also joins the market with long warranty coverage and eye-catching specifications to build trust among consumers. These brands stand for what professionals value most: clarity, reliability, and a solid return on investment.

The Quiet Revolution: Embracing Electrification

Many of these exciting models are leading the charge toward electrification, bringing significant advantages to the table. Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles now provide refinement, impressive range, and effortless performance. Perfect for today’s discerning drivers.

Financially, the benefits become increasingly attractive: lower running costs, fewer moving parts, reduced service expenses, and, for company car users, notably lower benefit-in-kind tax rates. This scenario couldn’t be more favourable for accountants, presenting an opportunity for reduced expenditures, predictable costs, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.

Whether you're eyeing a pure EV like the Polestar 2 or a plug-in hybrid from Kia or Cupra, the transition to cleaner technology has never been more appealing for our planet, your business, and your financial well-being.

Your ICAEW Member Vehicle Benefits

Thanks to ICAEW BenefitsPlus, members gain exclusive access to a comprehensive vehicle service through TysonCooper, the official vehicle partner for ICAEW members. TysonCooper takes the lead in negotiating directly with manufacturers, dealer networks, and finance providers to deliver member-exclusive terms across an extensive lineup of cars and vans, including those standout new-generation brands.

This partnership ensures that members enjoy preferential lease and purchase pricing, enhanced specifications, flexible financing options, and access to vehicles that aren’t always available through traditional retail channels.

Embrace the new wave of vehicles that are not just redefining luxury but making it accessible for everyone!

Personal service, professional advice

Unlike a dealership, TysonCooper’s role isn’t to push one brand, it’s to understand you.

Your mileage, your preferences, your budget, your tax position and then match those with the right vehicle and finance structure.

It’s a tailored, personal approach designed for busy professionals who value expertise and simplicity.

You’ll speak to a friendly, knowledgeable specialist who can guide you through all the options. From contract hire and PCP to business lease and purchase, with no jargon and no pressure.

A smarter way to drive

The automotive world is evolving fast but for ICAEW members, keeping pace has never been easier.

Through your BenefitsPlus partnership with TysonCooper, you can enjoy the confidence of expert guidance, the reassurance of vetted finance options, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re getting exclusive member-only value.

Whether you’re drawn to the futuristic flair of Polestar, the everyday luxury of Hyundai and Kia, or simply want to explore what other manufacturers can offer, you’ll find that the new era of motoring is built on the same principles accountants live by: clarity, efficiency and intelligent choice.

So next time you’re reviewing your spreadsheets, maybe add one more column for a smarter, better-looking, better-value car.

All makes, all models, all funding options. With exclusive terms, just for you.

From Hyundai and Kia to Polestar, Cupra and Škoda, a new wave of manufacturers is reshaping what “luxury” means. Sleek, efficient and surprisingly attainable, these models combine design and practicality, perfect for accountants who know value when they see it.