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Car group tests

10. BMW X5

BMW X5 front tracking

The BMW X5 is a veteran 4x4, paving the way for rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport. It's going to be replaced by the end of 2013, and hopefully it'll be even better. But the current version is still a great choice, with a spacious cabin and a wide range of engines to choose from.

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As a new version is due soon, BMW has trimmed down the spec range of the X5, so now it only includes SE and M Sport versions. Both, however, feature the same slick-shifting eight-speed automative gearbox. In terms of engines, the most popular is the 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder, which comes in 30d and 40d versions. The 30d will more than suffice - it still feels quick, completing 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds.

BMW X5 review

The X5 is a huge, robust car, with an optional third row of seats for larger families. The 620-litre boot is more than capable of carrying your holiday luggage, while the roomy cabin offers decent head and legroom for rear seat passengers.

However, the X5 fell to a disappointing 91st place in our 2013 Driver Power Satisfaction survey. Owners marked harshly for drive quality, with only two other cars ranking lower for this particular category in the whole survey. But with such huge proportions, it's no surprise that the X5 is a little slow to react steering-wise.

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New & used car deals

BMW X5

BMW X5

RRP £66,455Avg. savings £8,163 off RRP*Used from £27,995
Mercedes GLE

Mercedes GLE

RRP £61,475Used from £26,295
BMW X7

BMW X7

RRP £79,135Avg. savings £9,033 off RRP*Used from £49,500
Audi Q7

Audi Q7

RRP £62,700Avg. savings £8,861 off RRP*Used from £27,717
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
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