An apparatus and method wherein at least two different sensors are used to obtain information related to ground speed of a work vehicle, and a control unit determines the ground speed based upon certain of the information from the sensors while the work vehicle is operating in a first ground speed range and based upon certain other information provided by the sensors while the work vehicle is operating in a second ground speed range. A display unit can advantageously be provided for displaying the ground speed determined by the control unit to the vehicle operator. The ground speed thus determined can also be used to more accurately control vehicle functions that depend on the ground speed. The ground speed can be selected from one or a combination of indications including a ground speed radar, a transmission or wheel speed pickup sensor, or a synthesized ground speed determined using engine speed and the commanded transmission gear ratio.