Best Compact Executive Car 2012

For the seventh consecutive year with the 320d SE, the new BMW 3 Series Saloon has lived up to the legacy of its predecessor by being crowned WhatCar? ‘Best Compact Executive Car’ 2012.

The BMW 3 Series Saloon always remained ahead of the competition in every way, and was supreme in the Compact Executive category. The ‘3’ has become the most economical car in its class, as it appeals to both business and retail customers with its EfficientDynamics package. It was commended for being smooth and refined whilst still offering that sheer driving pleasure.

The BMW X3 received the award of WhatCar? ‘Best SUV’ 2012 beating stiff opposition in a very competitive sector. The BMW X3 xDrive20d was awarded the top honour in recognition of its exceptional blend of efficiency, practicality and quality.

BMW Cambridge dealership and dealers from across the UK celebrated, as BMW also received awards in the following categories:

• Estate over 25k: BMW 520d Touring SE

• Coupe over £40k: BMW 640d M Sport

• SUV between £30-40k: BMW X3 xDrive20d SE (Overall Winner)

• Executive under £30k: BMW 320d SE auto (Overall Winner)

• Executive between £30-40k: BMW 520d ED

Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK, said: “It is a testament to the quality and refinement of the BMW 3 Series to win this prestigious award for seven consecutive years. To have this consistent recognition, across the generations, for all of the hard work that goes into producing BMW’s core model is a great honour.”