NOW some people like basic utilitarian in their car and some need off-road or towing ability second to none.

For them, the Jeep Wrangler is a good alternative to the Land Rover Defender.

But for everyone else, there's another 4x4 out there that's cheaper, better to drive, more comfortable, more refined and costs less to run.

I recently spent a short time in the Wrangler Overland turbo diesel and, since I love big chunky 4x4s, I enjoyed it.

But, I could not live with the noise or the ride every day on the road and I don't know many people who could - unless they had to.

I had not driven a Wrangler for some years and this latest model is far better than earlier versions.

The 2.8 diesel delivers loads of pull but the slow-witted automatic gearbox and most of the interior layout are way behind the times.

Jeep's heritage stretches back to the Second World War but this one is too rough and tough for most.

Overland spec brings leather upholstery, thick carpets and the standard automatic gearbox. It also has an alarm, alloys, cruise, heated seats, traction control and sat nav.

The high driving position is lovely, but the roly-poly gait on road does not inspire confidence and the Defender would be my choice.