BMW X5 (2018–)

Introduction

The BMW X5 competes with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. It's now in its fourth generation with a new platform (shared with the BMW X7) and gets modest styling updates.

We'll address those styling updates first, as you could be forgiven for thinking the new X5 looks very much like its predecessor. But those larger front kidney grilles make it appear almost as aggressive as the new X7 (almost), while the rear bears more than a passing resemblance to the smaller X1.

It's huge, too - longer, wider and higher than the old model, meaning there's all the interior space a modern family could possibly want. That includes 645 litres of boot space, while dropping the 40:20:40 split rear seats increases that to 1860 litres.

A split rear tailgate aids access, while the optional Comfort Access feature allows you to open both sections hands-free. Even the boot floor drops electronically when required to increase space, while an optional extra pair of seats can be fitted in the boot.

Of course, BMW's once-flagship SUV isn't short of technology. Adaptive cruise will now sit in stationary traffic for up to 30 seconds before the driver has to nudge the accelerator to move forward, while the new Lane Change Assistant will hold the steering in your lane until you indicate to initiate a lane change.

There's even a Reversing Assistant, which controls the steering to manouvre the X5 back along a path recently negotiated forwards. It can retain the steering movements made during the car's last forward manouvre for long periods, meaning the system can reverse the new X5 out of a parking position that it drove into forwards the day before.

Buyers can choose from one petrol and two diesel engines, with a plug-in hybrid version expected at a later date.

Most buyers will opt for the xDrive30d, which is our choice of the range. It offers plentiful performance, reaching 62mph in 6.5 seconds, while returning respectable fuel economy. The current top-spec model, meanwhile, is the M50d, with its 400PS providing a 0-62mph time of 5.2 seconds.

No matter which engine you choose, all X5 variants are good to drive. It's a big car, yet surprisingly agile - especially with the adaptive suspension of the M50d. Technology makes it easy to drive around town, too, and there's not much on the market that'll provide a more relaxing drive on the motorway.

The interior feels as upmarket as you'd expect from a BMW, although there are more buttons than you'd find in rivals. This might take a bit of getting used to and means the cabin looks a bit cluttered.

Our biggest grievance with the X5 is BMW's refusal to offer Android Auto - which says a lot about how good the car is. It's great to drive, with a premium interior and plenty of space for the family.