3. BMW X5
The fourth-generation of Munich”s full-sized has been treated to a mid-life refresh, but such were the abilities of the old car it’s arguable that no such nip-and-tuck were needed.
In fairness, BMW has kept the updates simple, with revised looks front and rear, more tech on the inside and some mildly enhanced engines that, of course, combine greater performance with enhanced efficiency.
Even so, twenty years on from the original version that played a big part of in redefining this part of the luxury car market, the recipe remains the same.
Essentially, BMW hit on a powerfully appealing concept: that of the sporting SUV with as much space, versatility and 4×4 capability as many needed – but not enough to dull its dynamic edge. The latest car is smaller and lower than many of its rivals, with a more saloon-like recumbent driving position.
However, it gives little away in luxury ambience, with a rich and expensively finished cabin that’s been improved by the addition of the brand’s now traditional curved screen for the instrument cluster and infotainment. There’s a sizeable boot too. And the option of seven seats.
But it’s the X5’s driving experience that’s still most likely to bond you with the car, particular if a large 4×4 is the car you need but not the one you necessarily want.
Pacy steering, good body control, well-balanced grip levels and fairly crisp and incisive handling response make this handle as much like a family estate car as an SUV, while strong, smooth and refined engines provide all the performance you’re likely to want.
Other SUVs offer more material richness still, as well as more space, comfort and 4×4 capability; and that’s to say nothing of the X5’s styling which, thanks to that oversized kidney grille, has attracted some high-profile criticism.
Still, for keen drivers, the X5 will always deserve close consideration; and, thanks to the impressive ’50e’ plug-in hybrid version, for tax-savvy fleet drivers likewise.