BMW X1 (2015-present)

The BMW X1 is the smallest of the company’s SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) range, and also the least expensive. But its grown-up styling and big BMW grille ensures that it never feels like a budget option.

It’s hard to define when a crossover becomes an SUV, but the X1 treads the line between the two. It shares mechanical parts with the Mini Hatchback, but it sits higher up, giving the impression of an off-roader. It can also be specified with four-wheel-drive.

Generally, the added height is supposed to give X1 drivers a better view of the road ahead, while the mechanical bits underneath make sure that it drives pretty much like a normal hatchback. The X1 does a good job of this too - and it certainly feels less cumbersome to drive than the Mercedes GLA.

The ride is comfortable and smooth too, which is an improvement over the similarly-sized Audi Q3. Because the X1 is designed for owners who spend most - if not all - of their time driving on the road, not all models have four-wheel drive, which BMW calls xDrive. This provides extra control in slippery conditions, and while cornering.

Inside, you can fit three passengers in the back without too much discomfort, thanks to the ample leg and head room. Storage space is generous all round - BMW claims the door pockets will hold a one-litre bottle.

The boot is a good size – there’s more room here than in the Mazda CX-5 or Audi Q3. Dropping the back seats increases it substantially. If you need the seats, you can specify a sliding rear seat that allows you to choose between some useful extra boot space or additional rear legroom.

It’s in the interior quality that you see the difference between the X1 and cheaper rivals such as the Kia Sportage, Nissan Qashqai and Renault Kadjar crossovers.

Whether the seats are finished in cloth or leather, it feels well-built and well equipped. Standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control that allows each front passenger to choose the temperature for their side of the car, a 6-inch screen with sat-nav and parking sensors.

It’s a match for the luxurious Mercedes GLA, and a step up from the Audi Q3. The price for this is high, though. Even if you can find a BMW X1 offer that reduces the official price, which starts at around £30,000, it costs more than most other small crossovers, and considerably more than a family hatchback like the VW Golf, Audi A3 or Skoda Octavia, which also offer reasonable interior space and quality.

Apart from insurance, at least many running costs are low, thanks to a choice of efficient diesel engines that minimise fuel and road tax bills, and even the later edition of a plug-in hybrid. Stick with smooth automatic versions and it will feel like the premium car that it’s priced to be.