A new Discovery: The World’s most versatile premium compact SUV has arrived

 

Replacing the aging Freelander 2, Landrover’s new Discovery Sport possesses a dynamic style that’s evident on recent Range Rover models: with a purposeful stance, swooping bonnet and rising crease along the car’s flanks – at quite a contradiction to the Sport’s 5+2 seating versatility. This has been achieved in part, by the new multi-link rear axle which significantly reduces the degree to which the rear suspension turrets intrude into the Discovery Sport’s load space, consequently freeing up space for the additional seating.

This first model in the new Discovery range features bold and progressive design and comes with the 5+2 seating accommodation – resulting in the claim from Land Rover that it’s the most versatile vehicle in its class, while still having a dynamic and sporty presence. According to Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer, it was absolutely crucial that the “two attributes must work in Harmony”.

Of course, in a car of this class, usability is as important as style and the flowing curves are complemented by good all-round visibility and accessibility – of both occupants and luggage.

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Discovery Sport’s interior, while premium in quality and style, isn’t overly fussy or complicated in execution. The centre console’s switchgear has been designed with driver ergonomics in mind. Elsewhere, the theme of versatility is evident, with integrated cabin storage and auxiliary functionality and the option of four 12V power outlets and six USB sockets available for all three rows of seats – the second row boasting tilt and slide adjustability. Other equipment highlights include a brand new 8-inch infotainment touch-screen system.

As you’d expect of any modern Land Rover, impressive off-road capability comes as standard – the car’s excellent ground clearance and approach, departure and breakover angles, allow the Discovery sport to go seriously off-road and wade through water up to 600mm in depth. Excellent mechanical ability is also backed up by Discovery Sport’s full electronic array of all-terrain technologies, while the combination of the car’s light weight steel and aluminum bodyshell, high-tech rear axle and nine-speed automatic gearbox also promise capable on-road driving dynamics.

The new Land Rover’s high-tech design incorporates the latest safety features, such as autonomous emergency braking and a pedestrian airbag.

Initially the firm’s 190PS 2.2 turbodiesel will be the only engine offered, but this will be joined in 2015 by the more efficient eD4 motor, which Land Rover claims will emit 119g/km of CO₂ (subject to homologation).

Manufactured at Land Rover’s Halwood plant in Liverpool, Discovery Sport (in SD4 form) goes on sale in January 2015, with an expected price tag of £32,395. It’s anticipated that the eD4 (to arrive later next) will start from under £30,000.

The firm has also announced its Galactic Discovery competition to send four lucky people into space. To find out more, visit: landrover.com/gotospace

 

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