The original X5 surfed the SUV wave when the market boomed, and sold in huge numbers as a result. The second-generation model won’t have such an easy ride. It’s still a fine car, though. Its increased practicality is welcome and it drives with the same verve and agility as its predecessor. Factor in the superb straight-six diesel, and the X5 has the Q7 well beaten. The Audi tries to be all things to all owners, and falls between two stools as a result; it’s neither as crisp to drive as the BMW, nor as versatile as the Discovery. Ultimately, the Land Rover is a very different car to the BMW, so the choice here boils down to your own personal priorities – the X5 is for keen drivers with an eye on image, while the Discovery is for those who value comfort and convenience above all. For our money, the British car’s pin-sharp focus on what really matters in an SUV means it’s still our class leader.

BMW X5 v Audi Q7 v Land Rover Discovery at Auto Express (www.autoexpress.co.uk)