Land Rover first introduced the Discovery model in 1989 as as cheaper alternative to the larger- and more desirable- Range Rover Vogue. It’s had a few updates over the years yet has looked largely the same since its inception 26 years ago.
The last two Land Rover models to have a total re-vamp have, lets face it, been awesome. The Range Rover Vogue and the Range Rover Sport have gone from cool, to sexy and sophisticated, while still maintaining that kudos that everyone loves in the Land Rover brand. But now they have changed what we thought of as a great all round family car. Land Rover seem to have turned a workhorse with street cred and a seven seater when you want it with plenty of space for luggage, to look like the old Freelander which in our opinion is horrible.
We never rated the Freelander and we were hoping the Evoque model was the replacement for that, so we were surprised when this smaller version of the Discovery was unveiled. So why have they done away with that old Discovery? It was perfect for the farming or equine world. Only Land Rover know. Maybe they think the Vogue will step in, but lets be honest, the Vogue looks way too good to be used on a dirty farm especially when you are talking £80,000 plus.
This Discovery has been designed for the those who just want a comfortable 4x4, with all the luxuries you get from the Land Rover brand, but at fraction of the cost you’d expect to pay for its big sisters the Sport and the Vogue. It will be more spacious than the old Freelander, which is expected considering its a Discovery and it will still have the extra two seat in the boot, which I would love to see, as it looks pretty small. But it has major competition in the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 if you consider the X5 and Q7 to be in the Sport and Vogue classes.
Land Rover Discovery (2015) Overview
The 2015 Land Rover Discovery represents the next evolution in the brand’s off-road SUV range, combining rugged capability with modern luxury and family-friendly practicality. Its sleek, aerodynamic shape and lightweight aluminium monocoque architecture enhance fuel efficiency and handling while maintaining Land Rover’s renowned off-road prowess.
Design and Development
The Discovery adopts a modern design with a streamlined front grille, sleek LED headlights, and a distinctive stepped roofline. It offers seating for up to seven passengers, focusing on luxury, space, and versatility, ensuring both comfort and utility for long journeys and adventures.
Chassis and Drivetrain
Built on a lightweight aluminium monocoque chassis, the Discovery delivers strong performance with a range of engine options. The 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol and turbocharged diesel engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its four-wheel-drive system, along with the Terrain Response 2 technology, adjusts the vehicle’s settings for optimal performance across various terrains, ensuring superior traction on and off the road.
Performance
The Discovery excels in both off-road and on-road performance, with features such as adjustable air suspension and a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg. Its Terrain Response 2 system and advanced four-wheel-drive ensure top-notch off-road capability, while the adaptive air suspension guarantees comfort on smoother roads. With a wading depth of up to 900 mm, hill descent control, and All-Terrain Progress Control, the Discovery is highly capable in challenging environments.
Interior and Features
The interior blends luxury and practicality, featuring high-quality materials like leather and wood. The centre console houses an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, and optional Meridian sound systems. The versatile seating allows for multiple configurations, offering ample space for both passengers and cargo. Power-folding rear seats, panoramic sunroofs, and advanced entertainment options add to the vehicle’s premium feel.
Safety and Technology
The Discovery includes advanced safety technologies, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Parking aids, including a 360-degree camera and automated parking assist, enhance maneuverability. The Terrain Response 2 system ensures superior handling in various driving conditions, making the Discovery safe and capable across all terrains.
Legacy and Market Impact
The Land Rover Discovery continues to lead the luxury SUV market by blending modern luxury and practicality with off-road capability. Competing with models like the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE, it stands out for its versatility, family-friendly features, and off-road capabilities, appealing to urban families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The 2015 Land Rover Discovery combines luxury, adventure, and practicality. Its spacious interior, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched off-road capability make it an excellent choice for both everyday use and rugged explorations, offering comfort and confidence no matter the terrain.
So what price are we expected to pay for this new updated model? Well they say its going to start at just over £30,000 and some models can be as much as £43,000 which is a bit more than the original Freelander yet similar to the Discovery price although way cheaper than the new Bentley Bentayga due next year. I suppose we will all have to wait and see what the British public think about this one especially as the last two resurrections from Land Rover have been so brilliant.
What do you think of it?
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