What Car? Used Car of the Year - Luxury and Executive cars

Jaguar XJ6 3.0 SE
Price from £16,000 Year '03/03

How does a superb luxury car for just £16,000 sound? The Jaguar XJ is one of today's most advanced cars, with a lightweight aluminium body and active suspension, yet it can be yours for the same money as a new Ford Mondeo.

Despite the fact that it looks like Jaguars of old, this XJ was an all-new car when it was introduced in 2003, and far better than the previous model.

The lightweight body not only makes the car more nimble than you'd imagine, but it also helps economy and performance.

The V6 engine and automatic gearbox waft you along, while the air suspension smooths out bumpy roads.

Inside, the leather and real-wood veneer complete the feeling of opulence. Some rivals have more legroom than the XJ, but it's far from uncomfortable.

Cost-cutting
Owners report few faults on this latest model, and there are plenty of independent Jaguar specialists, so you don't have to pay a franchised dealer's higher servicing rates.

You'll pay a hefty premium to buy a car at a Jaguar dealer, but independent dealers and supermarkets have plenty of cheaper cars at this age.

Some may have an above-average mileage, but for the right price, a well cared-for car with a full service history may be a good buy.

P-P-P-Pick up a petrol
Our judges voted for the 3.0-litre V6 because the diesel version (our favourite new XJ) was only launched in 2005, and prices are still high.

The petrol's average economy of 27mpg is still good for this class, while the number of cars for sale and stiff depreciation make it good value. There is no classier £16,000 car.

Buyer's guide:
Power: 240bhp
Fuel economy: 27mpg (average)
Insurance: Group 16
C02 g/km: 249
NCAP rating: n/a
Reliability rating:4/5
Service intervals: 10,000 miles

Also consider...

Up to £10,000
Audi A6 1.9 TDI 130
'02/02 £9500

Jaguar S-type 3.0 SE
'02/02 £9500

£10,000-£20,000
BMW 520d SE Auto
'03/03 £20,000

Over £20,000
BMW 730d SE
'05/05 £25,000

Range Rover TDV8 Vogue SE
'07/07 £50,000