PRODUCE a car that offers pure luxury as standard then add the 'mmm' factor for utter indulgence to create the perfect recipe for success.
That's exactly what BMW has done with its latest X3 by adding the M Sport features to an already fabulous vehicle.
It means the baby brother of the footballer's favourite X5 now has even better looks including 18-inch alloys, sports seats and an aerodynamics package.
In fairness, it's not the cheapest sports utility vehicle around, but there is that certain peace of mind that comes with BMW and it does offer a whole lot of motor for the pounds.
From the moment you enter the cabin, the sheer comfort and level of luxury is immediately apparent.
All the dials, controls and levers are readily to hand and the sports seats provide plenty of support.
A pop-up computer screen displays all the relevant functions such as outside temperature, fuel consumption and sat nav. And the comfort levels are not just limited to the driver - there is ample room for three other adults and a fourth if they don't mind a bit of a bumpy ride in the middle of the back seat.
The drive itself is certainly no disappointment. The X3 cruises smoothly through its six speed automatic gearbox and the two-litre engine provides plenty of power both in and around town and on the open road.
My only real gripe was discovered when trying to pull onto a roundabout - the driver's door pillar is very bulky and can cause a restricted view, leaving you rocking back and forth for an unobstructed line.
But that aside, the X3 M Sport seems perfect in every way and even boasts a whole host of safety features including automatic headlights, auto-dimming rearview mirror, run-flat tyres, rain sensor, dynamic stability control and plenty of airbags.
All in all, quite a car - maybe too good for the footballers ... possibly one for their wives!
FAST FACTS
BMW X3 2.0d M Sport auto
Price: £32,940
Mechanical: 177bhp, 1,995cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 6spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 127mph
0-62mph: 9.2 secs
Combined mpg: 42.2
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 178g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust