Seeing as the X4 is based on the X3, you can expect it to perform as well as its sibling for reliability. All of the running gear is identical, so it’s tried and tested, and technology such as the standard fit sat-nav system should be reliable, too.

The X3 finished a highly respectable 24th out of 200 cars in our most recent Driver Power customer satisfaction survey, although it was the fifth-placed SUV behind some more mainstream models. Owners gave it good scores across the board, especially praising its performance and ease of driving.

BMW itself ranked 14th out of 32 in the manufacturers table, leaving it comfortably within the top half. While that may be a respectable score in its own right, the firm actually finished behind most other mainstream premium manufacturers. Audi was one place ahead in 13th and Mercedes, Jaguar, Porsche and Lexus were all further up the table – only Land Rover finished lower, at fourth from bottom.

The X3 has a five-star Euro NCAP rating, and the X4 should be no different as it features the same range of safety kit, including xenon lights, tyre pressure monitor and six airbags.

Warranty

BMW’s warranty covers new cars for three years and there’s no mileage limit. That’s about average for the premium car sector, as most rival manufacturers offer a similar level of cover. The exception is Audi, which is behind the pack with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty.

Servicing

BMW’s service intervals are variable, so the regularity depends entirely on your mileage and usage. The firm offers a bulk deal called Service Inclusive that covers the first five years or 50,000 miles of regular maintenance for a fixed cost, though the exact price depends on the precise model of car. An additional pack called Service Inclusive Plus extends the cover to brake discs, pads and the clutch.