The new BMW 3 Series saloon has lived up to the legacy of its predecessor having been crowned What Car? Best Compact Executive Car 2012 for the seventh consecutive year with the 320d SE.
The BMW 3 Series saloon reigned supreme in the compact executive category, recognised for remaining ahead of the competition in every way. With its efficient dynamics package making this 3 the most economical car in its class, it appeals to both business and retail customers.
However it was not just the BMW 3 Series’ outstanding economy that stood out for the judges; it was commended for being smooth and refined while still offering that “sheer driving pleasure”.
Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief, said: “The new BMW 3 Series is great to drive, with sharp steering and a well judged chassis. But the biggest gains are in efficiency; it delivers 60mpg and CO2 emissions so low that it falls into the cheapest 13 per cent company car tax band for diesels. It’s a convincing winner of our Executive Car of the Year award.”
The BMW X3 was also named What Car? Best SUV 2012
