FORGET everything you know about BMW’s original X3, because the new F25 series has more in common with the first X5 when it comes to size, space and luxury – at prices that remain unchanged at base level and actually decrease further up the range.

Slotting neatly between the all-new X1 and MkII X5 in terms of size and price, the new X3 delivers a new level of performance and fuel-efficiency compared to both its predecessor and its closest luxury SUV competitor, Audi’s popular Q5.

With Audi’s X1-rivalling Q3 still at least a year away, BMW now appears to have all luxury SUV bases covered, but does the smooth Q5 have enough of a head start to remain ahead of the pack – and the compelling new X3 - this year?