Which 4x4 SUV would you recommend for use in snowy conditions?

Being the owner of two rear-wheel-drive cars I am frustrated at being marooned in my house during the snowy conditions. As we live on slight hill we have not been able to drive to the nearest main road and so have come to the conclusion to sell one of the cars and purchase a 4x4. I have drawn up a short list of four so far: a Nissan X-Trail, Land Rover Freelander, Toyota RAV4 or a BMW X3. I would appreciate your comments on which of the above vehicles (or any other) you would recommend, bearing in mind it would only used as the second car. My budget is £12,000 to £15.000

Asked on 24 December 2010 by JT, Ormskirk

Answered by Honest John
I suggest a set of winter tyres on a separate set of rims fitted to the car from November to March. The new F25 BMW X3 is by far the best mid-size SUV, combining the impossible attributes of good to drive, economical, decent performance and SUV practicality. From £31,000. Unfortunately, it’s so good there is now an 8-month waiting list.
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