G'day all Orchard, I took a discovery 3 turbo diesel auto for a test drive last week and liked it so much I signed up for one LOL Previous models have had some reliability issues but this one is a whole new car. The diesel is made by peugeot I believe and the same as used in the Jag S. Great power and the 6 speed auto is slick. Has one many awards worldwide and word is that many range rover buyers are turning the the D3. 3500kg towing capacity. On the 4wd in the city stuff, I have been involved with heavy vehicle and 4wd operation and driver training for many years. In the heavy vehicle side this has involved improving the skills and safety of already experienced drivers. My opinion, driving attitudes in Oz could do with a fair bit of improvement. Notice I said attitude, I'd rather have an average driver with a great attitude (defensive driver) than a highly skilled driver with a bad attitude. Put high skill and good attitude together and your cooking. A thorough understanding of defensive driving by all drivers would have a far higher benefit than vehicle changes. (just dreaming I know) I own a 4wd because it is versatile, I tow a boat, a caravan and the odd spot of 4wdriving to see the sights around oz. I do think though that penalties for dangerous driving (eg speeding, tailgating etc) should geared according to the risk. Ie, an LPG tanker speeding would attract a higher fine than a 2.5tonne 4wd (like mine), which would attract a higher penalty than a suzuki swift. Anyway take it easy out there. cheers Rod
