THE BMW X5 is one of the best handling 4x4's on the road, not to mention the one which has all the right image and cachet.

It took the company far too long to decide to build a 4x4 but when they did, it was a great looker and has sold like hot cakes.

There is only one big off-roader that tops it and that's the Range Rover.

Don't forget though that all originally expensive cars come with expensive tastes in fuel, insurance, servicing and parts.

And buying an X5 second-hand needs ground rules. Never touch one unless it has full service history and you are convinced it is honest.

There are four engines - one diesel and three petrol - and most will come with an automatic gearbox which is as it should be.

The 184 or 218bhp 3.0-litre turbo diesel is the pick. It's the best oil burner on the market.

Performance is excellent, comfort marvellous and road-holding is much better than most of the opposition.

Basic spec is good, with almost everything most drivers could want and interior space is massive. Don't pay over the odds and remember, it's only a soft roader.