Land Rover gave its new Discovery a little facelift along with relatively low-key updates. Now in its fourth generation, Land Rover’s highly versatile luxury SUV gets a more powerful and highly efficient engine that pairs well with a new exterior identity and stately interior. The model it is replacing has more than 100 international accolades under its belt, much to be expected from Discovery 4. However, Land Rover confidently said it was up to the challenge. Let’s find out why.
Land Rover came up with two engine variants for its new Discovery line. The first is the 3.0-liter twin-turbo diesel LR-TDV6 capable of generating 180 kW of power and 600 Nm of torque. It consumes 8.9 percent less fuel, as it now has a power of 9.21 / 100 km in the combined cycle. It is also greener with an 8.3 percent reduction in CO2 emissions. The LR-TDV6 only throws 243g / km. Accelerating power, the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine generates 276 kW of power and 510 Nm of torque, with a fuel economy of 13.9 / 100 km and CO2 emissions of 326 g / km. The revised engines are paired with a new six-speed adaptive-shift automatic gearbox.
The interior has been completely redesigned and has a more premium look and feel than its predecessor. It features a modified dash, leather-trimmed center console, new leather power seats, and a host of new amenities including metal air vents, gear knob and speaker trims; has HD radio; a new five-camera ‘wrap-around’ system for easy parking; an audio and video DVD navigation system; and a premium audio package consisting of 14 stereo speakers, a CD player, an iPod input, an MP3 / USB auxiliary input and a subwoofer. Button start and keyless entry are standard across the range.
Land Rover also gave the new Discovery an extensive update to the chassis and suspension systems. The steering has been revised, larger 360mm brakes have been installed and improvements have been made to the Terrain Response system. The British automaker also made notable improvements to its renowned Hill Descent Control (HDC) system by integrating a gradient release control function. This means that the system will automatically engage when HDC is engaged and monitor acceleration and brake pressure on steep descents. Additionally, Land Rover equipped its new Discovery with innovative Trailer Stability Assist to reduce engine torque and automatically initiate light braking while towing to minimize towing-related hiccups.
In terms of safety, standard on the new Discovery range are dual airbags for the driver and front passenger, the driver’s side and the front passenger, and the head and head of the rear passenger; Electronic Differential Control, Emergency Brake Assist, Hydraulic Rear Brake Booster, Hill Descent Control, Enhanced Understeer Control and Roll Stability Control. Other features include off-road antilock braking system, electronic parking brake, electronic brake force distribution, dynamic stability control, and electronic traction control.
Overall, the new Land Rover Discover is the perfect car and a great SUV that can put other luxury SUVs to shame. It has the perfect combination of features and enough power that it can make every trip feel less like a cruise on the surface of the moon and more like a smooth and comfortable ride.
