Best AWD under 1,800kg - Volvo XC60 D5 AWD R-Design NAV

Volvo has a long history of success in the Towcar competition, and this year it’s picked up some more silverware for the trophy cabinet as the XC60 triumphs in the Under-1,800kg AWD category.

The facelifted car now looks smarter and feels more upmarket than ever. It delivers all you’ll need from a family SUV, plus in 4x4 guise you get the bonus of surprisingly good off-road ability. There’s plenty of room for driver and passengers, and the cabin is set apart by simple and classy controls.

It’s not the most engaging car to drive, and while the six-speed auto pulls well, it can hunt for gears on inclines. The XC60 is certainly better suited to motorway cruising, where it serves up excellent levels of comfort. And as you’d expect from Volvo, the safety features are in abundance, from hill descent control to the brand’s City Safety system.