BMW X5 - Pictures

The side sills (a £235 option) give a purposeful look, but despite its xDrive 4WD system, the X5 isn’t a car that thrives in the rough. Run-flat tyres are fitted, yet these are tarmac-biased. All-season rubber is available

Drivers get a snug, car-like seating position in the BMW. The overall interior design still isn’t particularly handsome, but there’s no faulting the materials or build quality, and cabin stowage is improved.

Space is fine if you’re travelling in the middle row, but it’s very cramped for those in the back. However, the X5’s passenger compartment is a step forward. All the seats fold simply to create a flat, solid load floo

Joystick-style gearlever takes some getting used to because it doesn’t move through a gate. Instead, you nudge it back and forth and press a button on top to select Park. Sport mode shortens shift times.

It can’t match the Discovery or Q7 for capacity, but the X5 should deal with most families’ needs. There’s good under-floor storage, although you can’t raise the rear seats from the boot, as the handle is too fa