Winner BMW 3-Series

Winner BMW 3-Series

In a sector where image really matters, Audi"s classy A4 has ruled supreme for the last two years. Things are different for 2006, though, and there"s a new kid on the block which our panel couldn"t ignore. The fresh-faced BMW 3-Series hit new car showrooms last January, and is now eligible for our Used Car Honours.

Because looks count when you"re buying a compact exec, the Beemer was always going to be a controversial candidate. However, our judges decided that its blend of handling, class-leading interior space and smart cabin made it a more than worthy winner, particularly when you consider the facelifted A4 made a dent in the residuals of the old-style Audi.

"You"ll have to look hard for one, but if you decide to change your new-shape 3-Series within the next five years, the same version will still be in production. That"s great news for residuals. Add the appeal of the badge and you"ve got the ultimate used compact exec," explained judge Mike Brewer.

The BMW dates back to 1975, and now out-sells the Ford Mondeo in the UK, so supply will improve quickly - as many fleet cars are on 12-month contracts. Perhaps surprisingly, running costs are also very competitive, and the build quality is first rate, with a pleasing and well trimmed cabin. Look out for cars with unexpired portions of the firm"s service and maintenance deal. New car buyers can pay extra for the cover, which includes everything that needs replacing in the first three years - except tyres - and second owners are able to take advantage of the remainder.

Admittedly, standard equipment is rather miserly but, as a used buyer, you won"t be paying more for many optional extras that would have cost the original purchaser hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds. Leather upholstery and satellite navigation will command a high premium, but cars without them could prove hard to sell in the future.

On used forecourts, choose from three petrol engines: a 150bhp 2.0-litre 320i; a 218bhp 2.5-litre 325i; and a 258bhp 3.0-litre 330i. There"s also a diesel model, the 320d, which is fitted with a 163bhp 2.0-litre power-plant. Bigger petrol units are thirsty, while the oil-burner recently won an Auto Express group test (issue 900), making it a sound used choice.

Finally, don"t be surprised if the car you"re looking at doesn"t have a spare wheel - these BMW 3-Series models come fitted with run-flat tyres as standard!

Expert tip

Having the right badge on your keyfob is vital in the compact executive market. But whatever car you"re buying, ensure that you get all the keys when you take delivery. If one"s missing, you may not find out until you need it, and replacement units can be pricey, so check they"re all included in the deal.

Commended Audi A4

A winner last year, the A4 still has plenty of appeal. A facelift with a new corporate grille is now in showrooms, affecting values of older versions, which are starting to look dated. If you"re not worried about the latest shape, diesel TDI models are great, although all A4s are good buys. Superb interiors and a smart Avant estate are added attractions.

Commended Volvo S60

The S60 offers great value. Plenty of standard kit and a comfortable cabin combine with Volvo"s reputation for reliability to make it a great used buy. It"s big inside, but the engine line-up isn"t as broad as its German rivals, though the D5 diesel strikes a balance between per-formance and economy. Good, early Y-reg examples start at чЈ8,500.