What Car? Car of the Year 2006 - Best compact 4x4

Nissan X-Trail 2.2 dCi SE
Price: £19,600
Target Price: £18,727

Our winner, for the second year on the trot, is one of the most adept cars in the class at making progress on the sticky stuff. Thanks to its sophisticated four-wheel-drive system which routes power to the front wheels under normal road conditions, and to all four automatically when wheel slippage is detected, the X-Trail can easily cope with mild cross-country work. High ground clearance also helps its cause.

However, the X-Trail is just as impressive on the asphalt as it is off it. Bends are tackled with composure, and quick, responsive steering adds to the fun. The X-Trail rides well, too. Bumpy surfaces cause it few problems, and suspension clatter is far less prominent in the Nissan than in many of its 4x4 rivals.

Our favourite 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is mated to a standard six-speed gearbox, which allows it to stay calm at motorway speeds. A deep well of pulling muscle also gives the car good in-gear flexibility, making overtaking a really simple task.

As well as delivering a brilliant all-round drive, the X-Trail is nicely thought-out, too. The boot gets a rugged, easy-to-clean plastic lining, and the standard capacity of 350 litres can be extended to 1841 litres by folding down the rear seats. That puts many estate cars to shame.

Above all, the X-Trail represents fantastic value for money. Even base-level SE cars come with alloy wheels, remote central locking, CD player and climate control. With our favourite engine also delivering an average fuel economy figure of 39.2 mpg and a company car tax band of 27%, running costs are also reasonable.

Highly recommended
Honda CR-V 2.0 VTEC SE
Price: £17,400
Target Price: £16,695

Kia Sportage 2.0 16v XE 5dr
Price: £14,995
Target Price: £14,421