Our judges were very impressed with the Audi Q7 last year, and the Q5 proved very nearly as capable.

The ride is too stiff when driven solo, but with a van on the back it settles down. Stability at 70mph is every bit as good as at 60mph, and only a handful of 4x4s could get close to the Q5 through the lane-change test. Al-Ko ATC data showed no caravan wobble when slowing from high speeds.

The Q5 took just 14.7 seconds to go from 30-70mph, its responsive brakes stopping car and van from 30mph in just 10 metres.

However, the pedals are offset to the right, which is hard to excuse in a £30,000 car. It’s also easy to catch the footrest when pressing the clutch pedal.

Otherwise, the cabin is very practical. Five can travel in comfort, and the huge boot swallowed every item of holiday luggage.