Top sales directors and managers are increasingly choosing fleet favourites such as VW Passats, Vauxhall Vectras and Ford Mondeos over high-end marques such as Lexus and BMW.

Swinton reports that an increasing number of customers who state their occupation as senior sales rep, sales director or sales manager and who work primarily 'on the road' are switching to more understated models.

Swinton spokesperson Steve Chelton said: "Whether it's down to the credit crunch, environmental considerations, a desire for a more family friendly vehicle or simply because luxury cars are currently unfashionable with reps, Swinton's data suggests that less ostentatious and more economical models are growing in popularity amongst high earning salespeople."