New Car Honours 2006

	Only when we drove it back-to-back against its rivals on UK roads did we realise what an astonishing achievement the new Cat really is.

One of the greatest names in British motoring history is well and truly back at the top! From the moment we heard rumours about the new Jaguar XK, we were excited. When the first pictures appeared, we were hooked, and early passenger rides in prototypes heightened our anticipation. But until we drove the Jag, we had no idea how good it really was.

And when it came to choosing our Car of the Year, it really was no contest! The new XK is a world-beater. Stunning to look at inside and out, and with fantastic residuals predicted, the XK harks back to Jaguar's glory days, yet features cutting-edge technology such as aluminium construction and a pop-up bonnet to improve pedestrian safety.

It is the most refined and cosseting car in class, and among the most exciting and nimble to drive, while the 4.2-litre V8 engine has one of the best soundtracks in the business. What's more, the Jag proves Britain still has the expertise and ability to produce the best. Ground-breaking, bold and breathtaking, the XK is a sports car the UK can be proud of.

Best Coupé

The coupé class is packed with talented cars in every price range. From Japanese models such as the Mazda RX-8 to German masterpieces from Porsche and BMW, there's a good car to suit everyone.

But this year, they've all been seen off by a Brit: the Jaguar XK wins this award convincingly. The Ian Callum-designed body looks sensational, the cabin is fresh and user-friendly (bar the small back seats) and no car is more desirable or better to be seen in.

However, only when we drove it back-to-back against its rivals on UK roads did we realise what an astonishing achievement the new Cat really is. The driving experience matches your mood - soothing for a long trip home after work, invigorating for weekend fun.

The lightweight construction enhances acceleration and agility, and power is deployed through a creamy automatic gearbox. Right now, this is the hottest property in the coupé kingdom - dethroning it will be a very tough challenge.