Large 4x4 champs

Eye-watering depreciation and the large 4x4 sector have always gone hand-in-hand. By their very nature, big, thirsty and expensive off-roaders have diminishing appeal on the used market, where running costs are the focus for a larger proportion of potential buyers.

However, there are certain exceptions to the rule. BMW’s X6 is one such stand-out machine, as it uses its outrageous appeal and advanced engine technology not only to top the residuals chart in this class, but also to finish ahead of the leading performers in five other key new vehicle market sectors.

Yet before you cash in your shares to invest in an X6, look closely at the figures. While the 55.9 per cent residual is highly competitive, it’s telling that you can still expect to lose nearly half of your initial £42,360 outlay after three years and 30,000 miles. That’s a drop of £6,227 a year, or a not insubstantial 62 pence per mile.

However, as our large 4x4 top five shows, few competitors can come close to these figures. Key to the X6’s residual strength is its distinctive design, relatively efficient and impressively punchy diesel engine and car-like dynamics. While a claimed fuel return of 34.4mpg doesn’t exactly sound frugal, it’s put into context by a 0-62mph sprint time of eight seconds and supreme long-distance cruising ability.

Add in a spacious luggage area and the X6 is a truly unique package. It breaks the mould of 4x4 design with styling and handling that owe more to a coupé than a 4x4 – and that’s helping it to leave the off-roader stereotype behind.

TOP 5 LARGE 4X4 CHAMPS
1. BMW X6 - xDrive 30d auto - 55.9 per cent
2. Porsche Cayenne - 3.0 TDI Tiptronic - 48.5 per cent
3=. Range Rover Sport - 2.7 TDV6 SE auto - 47.6 per cent
3=. LR Discovery 4 - 3.0 TDV6 GS auto - 47.6 per cent
5. Mercedes M-Class - ML 350 CDI - 45.0 per cent

TOP BUY: BMW X6 xDrive 30d auto
Sector: Large 4x4
Price: £42,360
Residual after 3yrs/30,000 miles: £23,679/55.9 per cent
Engine: 3.0-litre 6cyl, 232bhp
Economy/CO2: 34.4mpg/217g/km