The plants have specular added to them (didn't have it by default), and then have to get it matched up to the ground so they blend properly. But, the effect is noticeable. The direct light hitting the plants provides a nice brightness. But, the plants and ground in the shadows are still showing a soft light indirectly hitting them from other surfaces that would reflect light into the shadow. Also, while the vehicle has a soft specular shine, the tires also have a very slight shine on the very tops of the nubbies. This is from the shadow environmental reflection added in that creates a tad more highlighting to things in shadows.
The plants have specular added to them (didn't have it by default), and then have to get it matched up to the ground so they blend properly. But, the effect is noticeable. The direct light hitting the plants provides a nice brightness. But, the plants and ground in the shadows are still showing a soft light indirectly hitting them from other surfaces that would reflect light into the shadow. Also, while the vehicle has a soft specular shine, the tires also have a very slight shine on the very tops of the nubbies. This is from the shadow environmental reflection added in that creates a tad more highlighting to things in shadows.