All the way back in 1999 BMW revealed it was entering the SUV market with the first generation X5. Since then the range of BMW’s SUVs has grown substantially to include the X1, X3, X4 and X6 as well. The BMW X models have become extremely important now, with over 3.3-million X vehicles having been sold in those 15 years. In fact, every third vehicle BMW sells globally is an X model.

While BMW has tried exceptionally hard to maintain its image of sporty-luxury by calling its X models SAVs (Sports Activity Vehicle) or in some cases SACs (Sports Activity Coupe) when the X6 made its arrival. The naming conventions never really caught on and are mostly referred to as SUVs by the media.

Comparing theBMW X models

So then, which X model is best? Well we can probably rule out the X1 immediately as if it was any good, BMW wouldn’t be looking to replace it with the new front-wheel drive modelsit intends to release soon. The X1 was based on the 3-Series station wagon and never really took off, possibly because the 3-Series was just too good to turn down at a similar price point.

The X3 is a good compact SUV for the road but over the years has never felt as sturdy or as well built as the other X models. There are loads of rivals to the X3 and some offer much more value for money and have better off road credentials.

X6 is limited in its capabilities as an off roader and its overt coupe styling isn’t to everyone’s taste. Initially the X6 only came with two-rear seats as well but BMW quickly rectified that in the facelifted model. The X6 makes a very large statement of intent and its handling capabilities astound, especially with the petrol units under the bonnet. However its niche character and polarising styling isn’t enough to top the list of best X car.

So we’re left with the brand spanking new X4 and the original- the X5. We enjoyed the X4 we drove with its petrol engine and the way it handled tarmac better than just about any SUV we’ve ever driven. It’s reasonably spacious and quite good looking, plus you can get it in all-wheel drive too. The only problem with the X4 though is that it’s not an X5 and that’s why the X5 is our favourite X model.

BMW X5

The X5 combines luxury with space and practicality. It’s one of the most capable SUVs you can buy, the X5 brought on-road prowess to the SUV market and proved that SUVs make sense even if they aren’t’ that great off road.

The X5 has off-road talents like its X-Drive all-wheel drive system that will get you by for most situations and that’s good enough for most families heading on holiday. With a host of great engines like the 30d, the X5 is at its best where most SUVs spend almost all their time – on the road, packed full of things.