BMW 3 Series Declared 2006 World Car of the Year

Press Release

The BMW 3 Series was voted the 2006 “World Car of the Year.” The multiple-award winning 2006 BMW 3 Series received its latest kudos in an awards ceremony held in conjunction with the New York International Automobile Show.

“World Car of the Year” awards are voted on by an independent panel of automotive journalists from all around the globe. From an initial field of 27 contenders the 2006 3 Series was selected as one of three finalists before being declared this year’s winner. “World Car of the Year” contenders must be available in most markets of the world and are judged on style, performance, handling, comfort and utility. Entrants were also judged for value, safety, environmental responsibility and significance.

Driving enthusiasts around the world have considered the BMW 3 Series to be an icon for its unique combination of these attributes. It is the quintessential luxury sports sedan. It is now available with xDrive all-wheel drive in two Sedans and one Sports Wagon model in the US. The aluminum/magnesium inline six-cylinder engine with Valvetronic technology reduces weight while at the same time improving both performance and fuel efficiency. The advanced Dynamic Stability Control system includes features such as Brake Drying, Brake Standby Brake Fade Compensation, Start-off Assistant, and Comfort Stop. The outstanding value of the BMW Series is enhanced by outstanding residual values and free scheduled maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles.

“We are delighted to receive this recognition for the 3 Series,” said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO of BMW of North America. “The BMW 3 Series is the true embodiment of a world car. Designed and engineered in Germany, it is built on two continents and sold in approximately 140 markets worldwide. It is available in four different body styles, everything from a Sedan and Sports Wagon to a Coupe and Convertible. It is available with a wide variety of engines ranging from four-cylinder diesels to high performance six-cylinders.”