7. The Background Ascetic

As understated as possible: Mitsubishi ASX (Image: zVg)

This kind of banker is not par for the course. But there are those in banking who lead an almost ascetic lifestyle. Freedom comes from abstention. They live their life in service of their clients and consciously abstain from the comforts of the super-rich.

But they still have to get from A to B. Their choice is the Mitsubishi ASX. A car that provides all the necessary functions with a maximum of understatement, polished tech, and Japanese dependability.

The compact SUV has everything anyone would need when it comes to advanced driver assistance systems and connectivity. It is available in gas-powered hybrid, mild hybrid, or plug-in hybrid versions from 24,999 francs upwards.


8. The Gentleman Banker

Balanced: DS 9 E-TENSE 4x4 360 (Image: zVg)

The trademark of this kind of banker is a distinguished appearance, something that doesn't throw people off while showing a touch of taste and class. There is a reason why this archetype of the Swiss private relationship manager has clients from all over the world who have trusted them for decades.

Their matching vehicle is a fully equipped premium series French DS 9 E-TENSE 4x4. The limousine is a call out to the heyday of Citroen tradition and the art of hydropneumatic driving comfort. The modern version is equipped with all the tech you will ever need and the plug-in hybrid is neither too big, too small, sporty, or sluggish. It also doesn't make bold statements while not being boring. It doesn't guzzle gas and it isn't fully electric, just like that classic Swiss private banker. 

While driving in sports mode, the two electric engines throw up 360 HP. Its price starts at 98,900 francs.


9. The Contemporary Private Banker

The flagship of its electric fleet: Audi Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron quattro (Image: zVg)

Audis RS models are highly sought after by classical private bankers. They shine through with their interiors while keeping their understated exteriors. It is something that no client would have a problem getting into. A big plus in Switzerland is their four-wheel drive, which helps get the banker to and from his winter hunting rounds in St. Moritz and Gstaad.

Those who appreciate its qualities but want something electrically powered should go for the Audi Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron. It is a continuation of Audi's first full electric e-tron launched in 2019. Since then, the engineers at Ingolstadt have managed to increase all key performance parameters and range, and they have launched it under the Q8 label.

Its 571-kilometer range fulfills WLTP standards and it has remarkable acceleration, going from 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds with its Quattro drive and its beautiful, sporty lines. Prices start at 91,340 francs. 


10. For Thomas Jordan Aficionados

Commanding Aura: 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport (Image: zVg)

When a white Cadillac Escalade is parked in front of the Swiss National Bank (SNB) in Zurich's Borsenstrasse, bankers know that Thomas Jordan is in town. Still, no one knows if he still drives this prime example of the Big American Car. 

What is known is that Cadillac updated its legendary model at roughly the same time as the central bank's changing of the guard. And this is now going fully electric. The 5.7-meter-long, 23.4-meter-wide, and 4-ton colossus promises the same attributes as its gas-guzzling brothers. Lively performance, an unobstructed field of view, a commanding presence, and dynamic driving properties. Exactly what a central banker needs.

Aficionados will be in a position to buy the new Escalade in a few months for about $130,000. But only in the US.