Secret luxury cars of 2006 - Our current favourites

Jaguar XJ
The lightweight, all-aluminium XJ builds on the grace, pace and comfort of previous Jag flagships, but at last provides proper room in the cabin – and there’s a long-wheelbase version with even more space. The XJ drives superbly – that aluminium body gives even the entry level V6 petrol decent pace – and it’s beautifully refined with a cultured engine note. Quite brilliant.

Mercedes S320
Even though the S-Class is about to be replaced, the current car powered by the silky 3.2-litre turbodiesel is supremely impressive. Quiet, economical and swift, The S-Class is a big car, yet doesn’t feel it. The ride is simply magnificent: smooth and quiet, over any surface at any speed.

Audi A8
The A8 is an understated, superbly built and impressively refined luxury car, with ample performance from smooth V8 engines and excellent diesels. The quality and style of the spacious cabin are something to behold. Body control is good for a big car, and the A8 handles tidily for its size. Speed-sensitive power steering makes the A8 easy to drive.


See the February 2006 issue of What Car? magazine for a free 100 Secret Cars of 2006 and Beyond supplement.