BMW X5 XDRIVEDRIVE 25d

Euros like this don’t cost more because they have more gear; the premise is that they’re fundamentally better cars. The base AWD X5 ($91,155) does have some equipment aces, though, including eight airbags (up two), brilliant voicecontrolled infotainment system with internet, an idrive controller and fantastic top-down camera view. 14/20

Highly functional cabin offers ample space, storage and intuitive controls. There’s officially 650L of luggage room behind the 40/20/40 second row; BMW doesn’t quote a figure behind the third row, as it’s an option (they’re a bit cramped, and mean you lose the spare wheel, but bring additional aircon outlets). Love the two-part tailgate. 16/20

Potent 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four teams slickly with polished eight-speed auto to give enviable performance and economy. Out-torques the Mazda, with 500Nm, while using much less fuel (5.3L/100km) and matches its grunt, if not enthusiasm. No paddles (standard in the Mazda) but at least the gear lever’s manual plane is oriented the right way. 16/20

Run-flat tyres are far enough along the evolutionary process that they no longer destroy ride quality, and the X5 is on relatively modest 255/55R18s. Still, there’s something in the big wagon’s chassis tune – likely the focus on sportiness, which pays off elsewhere – that makes it a bit busier than we’d like on really bad roads. 16/20

The X5 has a crisp, connected backroad demeanour. It may not be the first car you’d choose for it, but if you found yourself on a country road in the BMW SUV, it’s capable of entertaining, thanks to well-contained roll and precise, incisive steering. It’s kart-like to the CX-9’S fluency, if you can say that about an SUV. Which, probably, you can’t. 16/20