BMW X3

	With 580Nm of torque and a slick six-speed automatic gearbox, performance and refinement are outstanding

With 580Nm of torque and a slick six-speed automatic gearbox, performance and refinement are outstanding. Yet while the handling is undeniably impressive, the X3 remains a tall off-roader, so sporty fans will probably be disappointed. Push the engine and the quoted 32.5mpg economy will plummet, too. Our model’s 18-inch alloys also harm ride comfort, and while interior quality has been improved, the packaging still disappoints – especially given the hefty £36,415 price tag.

Go for the M Sport and you’ll fork out £38,175, while even the base 2.0 oil-burner is £28,560. Unless outright performance is your top priority, the all-new Free-lander could be worth the wait.