The Land Rover Discovery Series 4 does something few cars manage: it looks purposeful without trying too hard. Seven seats, a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel under the bonnet, and genuine 4WD capability -- and it still fits in a suburban driveway without any apology.

At 123,000 km, this 2016 TDV6 is well into its stride. Land Rover diesels are built for distance, and the twin-turbo V6 in the Series 4 delivers quiet, muscular performance that suits both the school run and the long weekend escape in equal measure. There is a reason these engines keep turning up in working fleets.

Inside, seven seats with genuine space in the third row change the maths on family travel. Road trips that once required two cars suddenly do not. The layout is practical and unfussy -- wide doors, a commanding roofline, and a boot that swallows luggage without negotiation.

The 8-speed sports automatic keeps the drive relaxed in traffic and composed on the highway. Terrain Response takes care of the rest when the road runs out -- or when Melbourne weather decides the road might as well not exist. It is the kind of car that makes you less stressed, not more.

Grey suits the Discovery well. Understated on the street, serious when you need it to be. It reads as a vehicle for people who have thought about what they actually need rather than what looks good in a showroom.

At $29,000, this is a full-size seven-seat 4WD with real off-road credentials -- not a crossover dressed up in adventure trim. For families in Melbourne and Nunawading who actually use their vehicles rather than just look at them, that distinction matters.

Some people buy a Discovery to go off-road. Most buy one to feel like they could, and then discover the third row is full every single weekend.

All prices displayed exclude government charges. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, MM Carz recommends you confirm with one of our consultants to confirm specific specifications/features about the car. Please also note our vehicles may not always be on display, as they may be in for detailing--please contact us in advance to confirm availability before visiting our showroom.