What's the difference?
Land Rover has launched a 35th Anniversary Edition of the Discovery, a seven-seat model that’s been a familiar sight on Australian roads for decades. Sitting in the large SUV category, it’s up against a fiercely contested field where the Lexus GX and Toyota LandCruiser Prado are household favourites.
The special edition lands squarely in the middle of that pack, a space that demands serious capability and comfort while still delivering a sense of occasion.
So the question is, does it manage to do all three?
The plug-in hybrid market is slowly but surely gaining traction in Australia, and Kia has thrown its hat into the ring with the flagship Sorento GT-Line PHEV AWD.
This top-spec seven-seat large SUV pairs family friendly practicality with the promise of lower emissions and petrol savings, at least, in theory.
So, is it the right blend of convenience, space and efficiency for busy families looking to dip a toe into electrification? That’s exactly what my family and I have been finding out.
The Land Rover Discovery 35th Anniversary Edition drives beautifully, with effortless power and a composed, comfortable ride. It’s elegant and well-equipped for its price, though the technology often frustrates, and it’s not as spacious as some seven-seater rivals. Small quirks in everyday use prevent it from fully standing out in a competitive segment but it does enough to be considered.
The Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV is a sumptuously equipped seven-seater that delivers comfort, tech and an easy-going drive. It presents well on the surface, and for the right buyer (one who can make the most of its plug-in capabilities ) it could be a smart, low-emissions option for family life.
But for all its polish, it doesn’t quite do enough to justify itself as the best Sorento in the range. The electric-only driving range isn’t especially generous, and the higher price tag , combined with its lower towing capacity, may leave some families wondering whether the diesel variant is the more practical choice.
It’s not a bad car by any means, but the flagship GT-Line PHEV feels more like a stepping stone than a standout.