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

"World Car of the Year" awards are voted on by an independent panel of automotive journalists from all around the globe. The contenders must be available in most markets of the world and are judged on style, performance, handling, comfort and utility. Entrants are also judged for value, safety, environmental responsibility and significance.

The BMW 3-Series was chosen from an initial entry list of 27 candidates nominated by the World Car jurors. In selecting the winner, a jury of 46 international automotive journalists considered a variety of parameters; then individually reviewed, evaluated, and voted on the World Car of the Year entrants by secret ballot.

Jurors observed that there has been considerable proliferation of models from BMW, from entry-level 1-Series hatchbacks to 500 hp M-Series supercars, but the heart of the BMW mystique lies, as it has for decades, with the 3-Series: sound, sensible and sporty sedans, coupes, convertibles and wagons. Jurors felt that tradeoffs between performance and practicality, between style and seriousness are more perfectly balanced with the 3-Series than is the case with any other make.

"We are delighted to receive this recognition of the 3 Series," said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO of BMW of North America. "It is often more difficult to replace an acknowledged segment leader than to introduce a new car. Based on awards like this and the reaction by customers, the fifth generation 3 Series is a worthy successor".  
 

www.wcoty.com