5) Mercedes-Benz GLA                        7/10

While the GLA sports a well-finished cabin and eye-catching exterior styling, the package is let down by a noisy, older motor and its comparative lack of practicality, especially in terms of rear seat space. Ride quality isn’t the best either.

4) Audi Q3                                  7/10

Despite being a little long in the tooth now, the Q3 is still an attractive car. The cabin though a bit plain is well put together, and quality is still good by class standards. The Q3 has all the essential creature comforts ticked but misses out on some of the kit available on newer rivals. While the 150hp diesel is just adequate, the larger 184hp motor is the one to go for as it is refined and quick engine. A cushy ride also adds to the feeling of being in something expensive.

3) Mini Countryman                 7/10

The Countryman has a few key strengths – excellent build quality, a long list of equipment and the retro-cool factor associated with the Mini badge. It’s a fun-to-drive car but it misses out on AWD, which contributes to the feel that the Countryman just isn’t SUV enough. The ride quality on the Mini is a bit too firm for our roads, giving potential customers another reason to opt for one of its rivals.

2) BMW X1                                8/10

True to the BMW badge, the X1 is an enthusiast's SUV in this class. It strikes a great balance between ride and handling and good performance from the strong diesel engine. The new X1 looks smart and boasts a spacious and plush cabin. AWD is available in top-spec version but it's best to stick to light off-roading due to the SUV's low ground clearance.

1) Volvo XC40                           9/10

The baby Volvo gets the basics right: it's effortless to drive thanks to a well-sorted ride/handling setup and 190hp, 2.0-litre diesel motor, and it scores high on space and practicality too. The Volvo XC40 is also equipped with the tech and creature comforts that cars even a class above miss out. It’s relatively pricier than its competition but you do get a lot for your money.

All prices, ex-showroom, India.