Escondido, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/01/2011 -- BMW of Escondido is pleased to announce three award-winning models, the BMW 5 Series, BMW X3, and BMW Z4 can all be found at their local San Diego BMW dealership. These three models each were the highest-ranking vehicles in their respective categories.

The Automotive Performance and Layout Study (APEAL) is an annual survey by J.D. Power and Associates assessing the satisfaction levels of new car buyers. This study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive. The results are based on owner evaluations of more than 90 vehicle attributes. The APEAL study measures owner satisfaction in 10 categories; Fuel Economy, Audio/Entertainment/Navigation, Vehicle Interior, Seats, Engine, HVAC, Storage, Visibility, Driving Experience, and Vehicle Exterior.

All-new for 2011, BMW 5 Series model earned the top spot as the highest ranked midsize premium car. The 5 Series engine choices include a normally aspirated and turbocharged inline-6 as well as a twin-turbo V8; all models are available with BMW’s new 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive. The BMW 5 Series models earned the top rating of “among the best” in all five categories; Overall Performance and Design, Performance, Comfort, Features and Instrument Panel, and Style.

The highest ranked entry in the premium crossover SUV category was the BMW X3. In production since 2004, the 2011 model is a second-generation model, slightly taller, longer, and wider than the out-going model. The BMW X3 model also earned a top rating of “among the best” in all five award categories.

The 2011 BMW Z4 was the top-ranked compact premium sporty car. This vehicle’s available V6 engine, and manual, automatic or SMG transmission gave this vehicle a top rating of “among the best” in overall performance and design. The 2011 Z4 also comes with a model with a retractable hardtop, a first for a BMW roadster. In style and performance the BMW Z4 was also rated “among the best.”

These three models weren’t the only ones to earn awards in the study; the 7 Series came in second in its segment and with the second-highest individual score of all the vehicles in the APEAL study was the top European model in the entire competition. The BMW 3 Series and the BMW X6 models also finished as runners-up in their respective segments.

If you are interested in test driving any of these award-winning vehicles visit BMW of Escondido today. Their friendly staff will be happy to assist you in finding the perfect BMW vehicle for you. You may also visit BMW of Escondido at http://www.bmwofescondido.com.