Best 4x4s and SUVs of 2013

BMW X3

Winner, Best SUV

Last year's top SUV hasn't had any major revisions during the past 12 months, but then it really didn't need them.

The X3's strengths are already numerous. Its 2.0-litre diesel engine is smooth, and powerful enough to cope with the car's size. It's efficient, too, delivering a more-than-respectable 42.2mpg in our real-world True MPG fuel economy test.

This everyday usability is part of a package that feels every bit the luxury SUV. The cabin is spacious enough to cope with a family and their assorted clutter, and it's beautifully finished, with superb materials and build quality.

On the road, the chassis set-up does a good job of blending body control with ride comfort, and you'll have to try hard to be annoyed by either road or suspension noise. The engine is one of the best out there, and the optional eight-speed automatic gearbox is an ideal companion for it.

The result is one of those rare cars that looks terrific on paper and is even better in the real world. Nothing at this money comes close to it.

Read the full BMW X3 review