For all the appeal of a slinky sports car, deep down, we all love an SUV. It might not set lap records at the Nurburgring, but there’s something deeply appealing about sitting loftily above the traffic in your very own Tonka toy. Here are our favourite ways to go up in the world.

The Fiat 500X

The Fiat 500 city car has been an overwhelming success. Its retro styling is based on the now 50-plus-year-old Cinquecento, offering a fresh take on an automotive classic since its release in 2007. But despite the 500 being the perfect urban runaround, you wouldn’t ask it to face down mud and boulders. Cue the 500X. The 500’s retro styling has translated well over to the X, complementing its swooping profile, while the muscular, clad wheel arches give it a more imposing presence than its delicate forebear. Inside, it’s a fun place to be; quirky details like the pool ball gear knob and designer door handles are the kind of things that set this budget SUV apart. It’s not a bad drive either, with sharp steering and good grip. With prices starting at just under £15k, it’s your perfect first step on the SUV ladder. www.fiat.co.uk

The Volvo XC90

The second generation of Volvo’s flagship 4×4 is a marked improvement on an already excellent car. It boasts a sleeker design, with a more rectangular grill, thinner headlamps and a more angular profile. Inside, with lots of leather and brushed metal, it’s clean and desperately modern. But that’s timelessly, Swedishly modern, rather than the sort that’ll date in a decade (the previous XC90 was produced for 12 years and still looks fresh). It’s a cracking view – both from inside and out – and especially impressive for just £46,000. www.volvocars.com

The Range Rover Evoque

There are few cars, let alone SUVs, that can visually match the Evoque. The slim windows, long nose and flared wheel arches give it the appearance of something much sportier than your standard off-roader. And the £29,000 price tag only enhances its appeal. It was the Evoque that launched Land Rover’s current design language, and its three-door approach only intensifies the Evoque’s athleticism. For those who enjoy mud in their hair (or, more likely, an urban breeze), Land Rover is soon going to offer a soft-top version as well. www.landrover.co.uk