Priaulx predicts tough title defence

The BMW driver won both last year's WTCC and the predecessor European title in 2004, but he knows that it will be hard to complete a hat-trick.

"The opposition strengthens every year with leading manufacturers entering more and more cars," said Priaulx.

"All the BMW drivers have a new car and engine which have shown great potential in pre-season testing, but the likes of SEAT have not stayed still, and you just have to look at their line-up to know how tough it will be."

SEAT have expanded to six cars for 2006, and bolstered their driving strength with former British champions Yvan Muller, James Thompson and Gabriele Tarquini.

"It is going to be a massive season," said Priaulx. "My prediction is, as has happened to me in 2004 and 2005, it is going to be the last race of the year before the title is settled.

"It is great from a spectator point of view, but it is always maximum pressure for us all year."

The 2006 WTCC commences at Monza on 2 April, with 34 cars on the entry list for the opening round.