WHEN the Land Rover Discovery is so good, I find it hard to see why anyone buys Range Rovers - except for the envy factor.

The Discovery HSE has everything that any upper echelon car has - and a lot more besides - all included in the price.

Power is from a smooth and quiet 255bhp V6 diesel, which gives enough urge for very good performance considering the huge weight.

Comfort is second to none - car or SUV - and although it rolls a little in the corners (what 4x4 worth its salt doesn't) the handling and road holding are still remarkably good.

Drive is permanently to all four wheels through a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox that has sport and manual modes, complete with paddles behind the steering wheel.

There's height adjustable air suspension so that it can be lowered for easier access. For off-road work there are presets for snow and ice, sand, mud, deep ruts and mountain climbing.

The whole vehicle just oozes quality and class, but few others can get you just about anywhere you want to go.

It's a full seven seater, still leaving decent luggage space and the list of equipment includes a heated steering wheel, full climate, stability control, rear parking camera, leather heated and cooled seats and lane departure warning.

It also comes with start stop and keyless entry and starting, but real economy - mainly around town, was only 25mpg.