IT may be the ultimate go-anywhere at anytime vehicle, but the Range Rover is not at its most comfortable in inner cities.
Or at least, I wasn't comfortable behind the wheel! Yes, it's undeniably capable and it's most certainly luxurious, but it's not built for tight parking spaces and cramped, clogged up roads.
Swap city centre sprawl for an American prairie, or even the British countryside and the Range Rover is undeniably a beauty - both to drive and look at.
In a city, it's simply hard work, even with power steering and all the gadgetry that makes driving it an experience not to be missed.
It's not the fault of the car, nor the manufacturer. Fairly obviously, one of the reasons drivers select a vehicle is that it suits their needs and where they live and, on that basis, I wouldn't entertain the idea of having one.
Price is another reason and I'd want a house for the fee for a Range Rover. I'm not suggesting it isn't value for money because, after all, it has established itself as a world beater.
Most competitive SUVs are a compromise - optimised either for road or the rough, they rarely feel at home on both.
However the Range Rover uses an advanced all-independent front and rear suspension featuring interconnected air springs. This arrangement ensures a smooth and cosseted ride on the road, insulating the cabin and providing a constant ride height regardless of load.
The air suspension also allows the vehicle to tackle extreme terrain, both off road and in the urban jungle.
Off-road, the air springs can be inflated to provide maximum clearance over obstacles. Equally, deflation of the air springs allows this high vehicle to access height restricted car parks and gives easy passenger access.
The interior has been feted by customers and motoring experts alike as one of the finest vehicle cabins ever created.
Crafted from a variety of materials, natural woods and leathers, or alternatively a hi-tech 'Foundry' finish, the new Range Rover has a minimalist approach, with simple easy-to-use controls, giving occupants a cabin which surpasses many luxury saloons.
Two engines are available, a 4.4-litre V8 and a refined six-cylinder three-litre turbo diesel, which powered my vehicle. Both engines drive through state-of-the-art five speed automatic transmissions and are equipped with electronic control as standard.
This gives the driver the option of a fully automatic transmission or a manual CommandShift, which can also be used in low range for increased control when off-road.
Equipped with permanent four-wheel drive, advanced mechanicals such as the Torsen centre differential and sophisticated electronic systems, notably traction control and Hill Descent Control, the Range Rover tackles with ease terrain that leaves many of its rivals stranded.
And more particular buyers can tailor make a Range Rover to their exact personal requirements courtesy of a bespoke Autobiography package which is available.
It enables customers to pick from a large menu of features, ranging from distinctive colour and trim combinations to entertainment extras like DVD and television.
FAST FACTS
Land Rover Range Rover Td6 Vogue
Price: £54,995
Mechanical: 174bhp, 2,926cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 5spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 111mph
0-62mph: 13.6 secs
Combined mpg: 25
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 299g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 6yrs anti-rust