New Car Honours 2006

	No other contender has such a superb engine range delivering a class-leading blend of power, performance and economy.

The BMW 5-Series earns its hat-trick, having scooped our executive car award for the third year in a row. It still has some way to go before it passes the record of its predecessor, which won this title for six consecutive years, but given how high BMW has set the bar in this sector, it's hard to see what will come along to dislodge it.

That's not to say it's fault-free, though. In the past, we've criticised the slabby dash, lack of cabin stowage and firm ride quality caused by the run-flat tyres. Rivals have made headway against the BMW due to those flaws, but the 5-Series imposes its authority everywhere else. No other contender has such a superb engine range delivering a class-leading blend of power, performance and economy. And the brand's reputation for driver appeal is firmly intact - all 5-Series have an unmatched crispness and involvement.

The boot is big, rear seat accommodation generous and build quality beyond criticism. Affordable running costs, the excellent Service Inclusive maintenance package and sheer desirability help seal this car's status as the best executive car for British buyers.