Versatility as Standard: 2017 Land Rover Discovery SUV
Not to be confused with the smaller Discovery Sport that was introduced back in 2015, the fifth generation Land Rover Discovery combines a radical new exterior design with a highly versatile interior that’s capable of seating up to seven full size adults. The result is a revolutionary full-size SUV that brings new levels of sophistication, desirability, capability and versatility to the Discovery family.
Originally previewed with the 2014 Discovery Vision Concept, the latest Discovery model incorporates key elements of the model’s DNA as established within the Land Rover brand. Inside, the all-new Discovery incorporates intelligent new packaging solutions which ensure the driver and passenger are more comfortable than ever before, and are afforded plenty of space for all their gear.
While the all-new Discovery looks very different, it is still unmistakably a Discovery. At the front, the sculpted surfaces, jewel-like headlamps and the raked windshield on the all-new Discovery break with the model’s tradition, while the daytime running lamps deliver a modern appearance and a distinctive new light signature. In profile, the side of the new model highlights the optimized volumes and proportions of the Discovery; the wheel arch design echoes Discovery Sport, with its distinctive castellations visually ‘locking’ the wheel arches to the vehicle body. The new form language features pronounced, yet smoothly contoured wheel arches, giving the all-new Discovery at both times a more planted and dynamic appearance.
At the back, the LED rear lamps have a horizontal emphasis, giving the Discovery a more sporty appearance. Breaking from the last four generations of Discovery design, the all-new model features a new one-piece tailgate that allows for a more sporting rear design that would not have been possible with the previous split arrangement. The new tailgate’s rounded profile integrates seamlessly with the body sides and provides a number of practical benefits.
Offered in SE, HSE, HSE Luxury and First Edition trim levels, base power for the Discovery SUV is generated by a 3.0L six-cylinder engine. HSE and HSE Luxury models add the option of a 3.0L LR-TD6 six-cylinder diesel engine. Torque for both engines is delivered through all four-wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.
The Discovery rides on the innovative aluminum full-sized Land Rover SUV platform. This foundation provides the perfect basis for the all-new Discovery, delivering a lightweight but durable architecture that contributes to improved performance and enhanced dynamic abilities. This lightweight unibody construction is made up of 85 percent aluminum – 43 percent of which is recycled – and is about 1,000 lbs. lighter than the outgoing LR4 which relied on steel ladder construction. Further engineering innovations have seen more extensive use of high-strength aluminum within the crash structure, while the entire bodyside of the vehicle is pressed as a single aluminum panel, meaning fewer joints, reduced complexity and improved structural integrity.
The innovative suspension architecture in the all-new Discovery is mounted on optimized steel front and rear subframes. These provide high levels of stiffness for enhanced steering response, chassis performance and greater on- and off-road refinement. The subframes are also designed to withstand off-road impacts while providing additional protection to the chassis and powertrain systems.
The fully independent suspension on the all-new Discovery uses a wide-spaced double-wishbone layout at the front and an advanced multi-link layout with an integral link at the rear. The integral link allows engineers to achieve stiffer damping when necessary for superior body control without compromising comfort and impact absorption.
Inside the passenger cabin, the design and engineering teams at Land Rover have produced a full-size SUV interior that provides improved space and versatility by careful analysis and optimization of every aspect of its design. Strong vertical elements intersect the crossbeam of the dashboard and clearly define the uncluttered central dash console design. The console features minimal switchgear which is designed to remain intuitive and reduce driver distraction. Configurable ambient lighting and the availability of contrast stitching give a luxurious, crafted feel to the entire cabin.
A wide choice of material finishes are available throughout, including premium Windsor leather and Natural Shadow Oak veneers; the interior is available in a choice of five colors including Ebony, Acorn, Nimbus, Vintage Tan and Glacier. The intersection of design and engineering is perhaps best expressed by the new optional Land Rover Intelligent Seat Fold function. The clever system allows owners to reconfigure the second and third row seats using switches just inside the tailgate, on the C-pillar, via the infotainment touchscreen, or even remotely using a smartphone.
The thoughtful touches extend to the climate control panel on the central console, which includes small-item stowage. A total of up to six 12V sockets and as many as seven USB charging points (up to nine when the rear seat entertainment package is fitted) across all three rows of seats ensure the all-new Discovery can comfortably cope with the demands of the most connected passengers, allowing them to power their smartphone or tablet simultaneously with an extensive combination of power supply options.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 115.0; overall length: 195.6; width: 81.6; height: 73.5
All vehicle measurements are in inches
Engine: 3.0L six-cylinder – 340 hp at 6500 rpm and 332 lbs-ft of torque at 3500-5000 rpm; 3.0L six-cylinder diesel – 254 hp at 3750 and 443 lbs-ft of torque at 1750-2250 rpm.
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Cargo capacity: 82.7 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 8201 lbs
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, cornering brake control, emergency brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, electronic traction control, dynamic stability control, roll stability control, hill descent control with off-road anti-lock braking, hill launch assist, gradient acceleration control, trailer stability assist, automatic headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rear view camera, remote keyless entry, HomeLink universal garage door opener, rear fog lights, perimeter alarm system, push button engine start, and tire pressure monitoring system. HSE adds rear parking aid, Bluetooth hands free phone system and navigation system. HSE Luxury adds two-speed transfer case with terrain response with rock crawl mode, brake pre-fill, speed limiter, front fog lights, and front/rear parking aid with visual display. First Edition adds terrain response 2, all terrain progress control, LED headlights with automatic high beam assist, surround camera system, activity key, autonomous emergency braking, driver condition monitor, intelligent speed limiter and traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist and lane departure warning, park assist, 360 parking aid with visual display, surround camera system, and blind spot monitor and reverse traffic detection.
Optional safety features include adaptive LED headlights, full-size spare wheel, tool kit, adaptive cruise control with queue assist, and active rear locking differential.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/50,000 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Land Rover Discovery SUV starts from $49,900 for the SE upto $73,950 for the First Edition. Destination charges add $995.
