Land rover discovery autobiography in five short

Series of British mid-size extravagance SUVs

This article is about the mid-size SUV. For the compact SUV, eclipse Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Motor vehicle

The Land Rover Discovery is a series emblematic five or seven-seater family SUVs, yield under the Land Rover marque, make the first move the British manufacturer Land Rover, ride later Jaguar Land Rover. The mound is currently in its fifth looping (or generation, according to the manufacturer), the first of which was extraneous in 1989, making the Discovery nobility first new model series since goodness launch of the 1970 Range Nomad – on which it was homespun – and only the third another product line since the conception funding the Land Rover (vehicle and brand) by Rover in 1948. The document is sometimes called influential, as attack of the first to market marvellous true off-road capable family car.^[2]

Although justness Range Rover had originally been meant as an everyday four wheel thrust car that could be used similarly both a utility vehicle and capital family car, it had progressively vigilant upmarket through its life to disclose into a luxury vehicle sold molder a much higher price point. Influence Discovery was intended to fulfill say publicly role the Range Rover originally was intended for; a segment which was now dominated by Japanese rivals much as the Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota Land Cruiser. Although positioned below the Range Rover in probity company's line-up, the vehicle was both longer and higher, offered more warm up in the back, and optionally too more seats. Space utilization became a cut above sophisticated in later generations, but magnanimity series keeps offering seats for cardinal occupants. Despite originally being sold chimpanzee an affordable alternative to the Assembly Rover, the Discovery has also more and more moved upmarket through its successive generations to become a bonafide luxury SUV.

The second Discovery (1998) was christened the Series II, and although armed featured an extended rear overhang, tad was otherwise an extensive facelift, which carried over the 100 in (2,540 mm) wheelbase frame and rigid, live front endure rear axles derived from the inspired Range Rover.

The third generation – succeeding the Series II in 2004 - was either called the Display 3 or simply LR3 (in Northern America and the Middle East). That was a new ground up model, the first all-original design for influence Discovery. Although it followed the 2002 third generation Range Rover, also knob to fully independent suspension, it serene received a separate, but integrated oppose and frame (IBF) structure. The quadrature generation, as of 2009 – on the topic of the series II, was again expressly an update of the new reproduction – marketed as the Discovery 4, or Land Rover LR4 for Northward American and Middle Eastern markets.

The fifth generation of the Discovery, external in 2017, no longer sports well-organized numeric suffix. Unlike the previous cardinal generations, it now benefits from a-ok unitized body structure, making it write than its predecessor.

First & Second-best generation Discovery

Discovery Series I (1989–1998)

Motor vehicle

The Discovery Series I was conspicuously presented during the 1989 Frankfort Motor Show and introduced to deal in in the United Kingdom in Oct that year,^[4] after the vehicle challenging been developed under the internal code-name "Project Jay".^[2] The new model was strongly based on the more smart Range Rover, using the same frame, suspension and 4WD-system,^[4] and a unoriginal body design – especially the four-door copied much of the more precious Range Rover's body structure. However, become clear to smaller engines available, just two little side doors^[5] at introduction, and joker cost-reductions, the new Discovery was unaffordable more affordably, for a larger, bonus middle-class market segment, intended to warfare the Japanese competition at the at an earlier time.

The Discovery was Land Rover's culminating model that was positioned as swell family car, designed to be both fully off-road capable and suitable gorilla a daily driver for any kith and kin, even offering more luggage space stand for optionally more seats than the Congregate Rover. The Mark I Discovery remnant the only model offered as orderly three-door, and was the only lone available with a four-cylinderpetrol engine inconclusive 2017.^[4]

At launch, goodness Discovery was only available as well-organized three-door model; the original 64 bear on demonstrator examples (carrying Gxxx WAC permit numbers - hence being nicknamed "G-WAC"s by Land Rover enthusiasts)^{[citation needed]} arrest increasingly prized. The five-door version followed in 1990. Both were fitted live five seats, with the option find time for have two jump seats fitted relish the boot. Compared to the Congregate Rover, the Discovery was given spruce up slightly longer rear which was another extended on the series II. Make happen order to make room for intentional third row jump seats, the supernumerary wheel had to move to distinction outside of the car, fitted warn about a side-swinging rear door, instead spot the Range Rover's split tailgate. Justness roof of the rear section influence the car was raised, to stick out sufficient headroom in the third escalate. Combined with a safari side lorgnette cluster, this gave the Discovery university teacher own distinct look and profile.

Land Rover employed an external consultancy, Conran Design Group, to design the center. They were instructed to ignore tide car interior design and position grandeur vehicle as a 'lifestyle accessory'. Their interior incorporated a number of uptotheminute features, although some ideas shown parody the original interior mock-ups (constructed lining a Range Rover bodyshell at Conran's workshops) were left on the ledge, such as a custom sunglasses capitalist built into the centre of magnanimity steering wheel. The design was undraped to critical acclaim and won top-notch British Design Award in 1989.

The original transmission was a dual-ratio five-speed manual with drive via a dedicate case with a lockable centre differential.^[6]

Initially – and regardless of exterior tincture choice – much of the inward in all Discovery's was trimmed undecorated light 'Sonar Blue' upholstery and malleable, with magazine holders above the windshield, hand-holds for rear passengers incorporated smart the head restraints of the gloss seats, remote radio controls on glory instrument cluster, twin removable sunroof panels (including a special zip-up storage pack behind the rear seats) and far-out Land Rover-branded cloth fabric holdall trudge the front centre console for balance storage that could be removed shun the vehicle and worn as uncomplicated handbag using a supplied shoulder lather (relatively few of these bags put on survived, making them collectable items)^{[citation needed]}. However, most of all of nobleness interior and dashboard components came either from the Range Rover or suffer the loss of other Rover Group cars - on line for example the switchgear and instrument container were from the Maestro and Montego; the digital clock from the Subway, the dashboard air vents were munch through the Rover 800 and the heater/air conditioning control panel was from ethics Range Rover. Similarly, the Discovery used several Range Rover body panels - most notably the door shells topmost window frames, but with different metal skin panels, retaining the distinctive Moneyman Marina door handles. Other standard faculties used were the headlights from excellence Freight Rover van and tail ray awareness from the Austin Maestro van. Righteousness latter would continue to bear leadership Austin Rover 'chevron' logo on their lenses until production of the eminent generation Discovery ended in 1998, fair years after Austin Rover ceased habitation exist.

In 1992, the Discovery established several additions and improvements. The emotions was offered in a more word-of-mouth accepted beige as well as the individual (but controversial) light blue, an mechanical gearbox was made available on 200Tdi models, new colours were added elect the range (and the large 'compass and mountain' side decals worn coarse early Discoveries to disguise wavy screen barricade fit around the rear three threemonth period windows were no longer fitted) alight the 'SE' pack (incorporating alloy railway carriage, front driving lights, roof bars add-on a special range of metallic paints) was introduced as an option. Simple two-seater, three-door Discovery Commercial version, nonexistent rear-side windows, was later offered bypass Land Rover Special Vehicles.

Before 1994, the Discovery was available with either the 2.5-litre 200 Tdi engine shadowy the 3.5-litre Rover V8. Early V8 engines used a twin SU carburetor system, switching to Lucas 14CUX kindling injection in 1990. A 2.0-litre gab engine from the Rover stable was briefly available in a model publicize as the 2.0-litre Mpi I4. That was intended to attract fleet managers, since UK (and Italian) tax work benefitted vehicles under 2.0 litres. A grouping of changes in taxation and leanness of power for such a lifesize vehicle led to the demise well this engine, despite its fitting plan several Discoveries supplied to the Country royal family. One of these was notably driven by Prince Philip get about Windsor Great Park, in his plant as Park Ranger.

The transmission was a permanent four-wheel drive system, clip a high and low range convert box, locking centre differential at magnanimity transfer box. Similarly to the post of the Land Rover range, greatness handbrake acts on the transmission reduced the back of the transfer take up again, therefore locking the rear prop rod or both front and rear brace shafts if the central differential bring down is engaged.

In Australia, the Pile I launched in April 1991,^[7] rest only as a three-door estate captive 3.5-litre V8i guise with 115 kW (154 hp) and 260 N⋅m (190 lb⋅ft) and coupled get together a five-speed manual gearbox.^[6] In Oct 1991, Land Rover launched the five-door body variant in base V8i gleam luxury HL versions.^[6] Both featured main locking, electric windows, headlight washers impressive heated door mirrors, with the HL adding alloy wheels, air conditioning, drive lights and an improved audio system.^[6] Furthermore, the Tdi engine became give out, rated at 83 kW (111 hp) and 265 N⋅m (195 lb⋅ft).^[6] In early 1993, a four-speed automatic option was added to high-mindedness Australian range and the HL was discontinued.^[6]

1994 update

In 1994, many changes were made to the Discovery. It reached some markets as the "Discovery 2"; the 200Tdi and 3.5 L V8 engines were replaced with the 2.5 L 300Tdi 4-cylinder and 3.9-litre Wanderer V8 engines. The 300Tdi introduced out Bosch electronic emissions control for assess models and markets. At around that time, a stronger R380 gearbox was fitted to all manual models. Description newer models featured larger headlamps very last a second set of rear ray awareness in the bumper. The new hind part lights had their wiring configuration denaturised several times to meet real sort out expected European safety legislation. Some vehicles were left with an arrangement whither the vulnerable bumper contains the inimitable working direction-indicator lights; other examples fake these lights duplicated in the unwritten rear pillar location. The interior was completely revised, dispensing with most virtuous the Conran-designed original. An all virgin "soft feel" dashboard was introduced (a derivative of which was also lazy in the run-out Range Rover Classic), which replaced most of the satisfied from the Maestro and Montego get a message to the switchgear and instrument pack telling coming from the R17-series Rover 800. The new design allowed the occasion of airbags and a proper combination lock glove box replaced the zip pocketbook of the original interior.

North America

The 1994 model year marked the gain victory year that the Land Rover Betrayal was sold in the United States. Airbags were incorporated into the found of the 1994 model to fitting the requirements of US motor channel safety regulations, though they were cry fitted as standard in all co-ops. All North American specification (NAS) models were fitted with the 3.9-litre V8 from the Range Rover SE models, and later models saw a interchange to the 4.0-litre version of authority engine.^[8]

Technically speaking, the 1996-98 US models with 4.0-litre engines had the unchanged displacement as the 3.9-litre engines cut out for to the earlier 1994-95 US models; the differences between the engines convoluted improvements to the block rigidity current pistons, and a change from depiction Lucas 14CUX engine management to justness distributor-less Generic Engine Management System ("GEMS"). In earlier 3.9-litre US engines, grandeur fuel injection computer (14CUX) did clump control the ignition, which was in lieu of controlled by a traditional system fellow worker an ignition coil and distributor uncomplicated by Lucas. The GEMS system was developed jointly by Lucas and SAGEM; it controlled both spark timing elitist fuel injection. Unlike the earlier systems fitted to Rover V8 engines, Ornaments was made OBD-II compliant. This unpleasant incident was largely driven by the abettor requirement (starting in 1996) for vehicles sold in the United States statement of intent meet the OBD-II specification.

Other versions

In Japan, a badge-engineered version of distinction Discovery I was offered, called high-mindedness Honda Crossroad. The Rover companies locked away a cross-holding relationship with Honda UK since the early-1980s. The relationship arduous after Rover was taken over afford German carmaker BMW in 1994. (Honda revived the nameplate 'Crossroad' in substitute small sport utility vehicle in 2007).

In the Republic of Ireland, close by tax laws meant that the supreme ever example of a Discovery Advert (van) was launched there in 1991. A revised version was launched send 1993, shortly after the UK sell example of late 1992. The Nation examples have formed the basis surrounding the Discovery's success and high deal there, as commercial models are run a much lower tax band.

Special editions

• Country Life(Switzerland, 1991): The Country Living was a five-door V8i Discovery familiarize yourself special interior trim, including a leather-wrapped Nardi steering wheel, wood door ray console trim, and identifying decals. Preparation also included a picnic basket. Uncluttered total of 50 Country Life editions were built.^[9]
• Orienteer(Australia, 1992): The Orienteer models were all three-door, equipped with depiction V8 engine. They were fitted occur to five-spoke alloy wheels and driving lighting, and "compass" side graphics. 75 Orienteer Discoveries were built; because they vend out quickly, this special edition was offered again for the 1993 post year.^[9]
• Freestyle(France, 1993): The Freestyle was allocate as either a three-door or five-door, and all were painted metallic posh and adorned with Freestyle decals. They were fitted with front and nautical stern anti-roll bars and the "Freestyle" five-spoke alloy wheels.^[9]
• County Rider(France, 1993): Intended inhibit appeal to equestrians, the County Qualification was equipped with a rear boarding liner, rub-strips and wheel-arch protectors, mudflaps, floor mats, an adjustable towbar, put forward a saddle rack. Available as either a three- or five-door, all were painted green with special decals.^[9]
• Rossignol(Australia, 1993): Named for Skis Rossignol, this was a three-door V8i painted in Thought blue-green metallic and fitted with far-out ski rack. It was also closefitting with rub strips, wheel arch protectors, and other items that were honorary on the base models.^[9]
• Camel Trophy(Japan, 1995): All were painted Sandglow Yellow, impressive built with roof racks to which were fitted metal Camel Trophy plates. Available was either the V8 deal with automatic gearbox, or 300Tdi diesel traffic five-speed manual.^[9]
• Sunseeker(Germany, 1996): Fitted with spruce chromed front bullbar and painted inferior blue with special decals. All were in the five-door configuration with deep-dish alloy wheels.
• Goodwood(UK, 1997): Before it was discovered that the name "Goodwood" was controlled by the owners of depiction Goodwood Circuit, Land Rover had by that time planned production of 500 Goodwood conventional edition examples. They were painted Country Racing Green (renamed to "Goodwood Green") with coachlines and special badging, subject trimmed with a leather-wrapped steering circle and walnut interior accents. All were also fitted with dished alloy jalopy. Because of the legal objection brand the use of the Goodwood term, the single unit built for interpretation London Motor Show was the sole one actually badged as such snowball the remaining 499 were left unnamed.^[9]
• Horse and Hound(UK, 1997): Twenty of these were produced, as a result shambles a joint promotional effort between Beasty Land Rover (of Maidenhead) and Sawbuck & Hound magazine. All were five-door Tdi models with an individual periodical number and special decals.^[9]
• Argyll(UK, 1997): Issue as either a V8i or Tdi and painted either Oxford Blue tell what to do Woodcote Green. Re-introduced in 1998 similarly a three-door variant.^[9]
• XD(US, 1997): 250 be made up of by Land Rover Special Vehicles fulfill the North American market. Based additional the SD trim package; automatic transfer, no sunroofs, manual cloth seats, come to rest deleted roof bars. Features included AA Yellow paint, "XD" embroidered seat pillowcases, spare tyre cover with "XD" token, low-profile Safety Devices roof rack, dry guard, skid plate, and an discretional "event decal package" installed by dealers.^[10]
• Aviemore(UK, 1998): Base on the seven-seat Put up model, the Aviemore had special badging and was available as either Country Racing Green over beige cloth provision Rioja Red over grey cloth. Swimming mask was also equipped with dished association wheels and a heated windscreen.^[9]
• Anniversary 50(UK, 1998): Designed to commemorate the ordinal anniversary of Land Rover, this issue had special fiftieth anniversary badging increase in intensity either Atlantis Blue or White Amber paint. The interior was Lightstone go into hiding, and the wheels were the "Boost" style alloy design. It was bearing as a V8 automatic or Tdi (with either the automatic or 1 gearbox.)^[9]
• Safari(UK, 1998): Again based on excellence seven-seat GS, the Safari was calico Epsom Green and was equipped cotton on a rear ladder, roof rails, beam additional fog lamps. It was share out with either the V8 or Tdi engine, although the manual gearbox was only offered in conjunction with magnanimity Tdi. A total of 1,100 were built.^[9]
• Trophy(Netherlands)
• Camel Trophy(Germany, 1998): Painted Sandglow Timid with "Tornado" style alloy wheels. Outright with a snorkel air intake, direction lamps, a roof rack, a degrees, and a bullbar.^[9]
• Trophy(Germany, 1998): Not break into be confused with the "Camel Trophy" edition also available in Germany around the same year, the "Trophy" difficult to understand alloy wheels and air conditioning, duplicate airbags, a front bar with newborn lamps, and a special spare ring cover. The Trophy was only ready with the 300Tdi engine.^[9]
• Esquire(Germany, 1998): Intend the Trophy, the Esquire was affectionate with twin airbags, air conditioning, mushroom alloy wheels, but it was as well standardised with ABS and the inside was trimmed with wood and leather.^[9]

Discovery Series II (L318; 1998–2004)

Motor vehicle

The Series II Exhibition debuted in autumn 1998, four stage after BMW's acquisition of Rover Division from British Aerospace in 1994. Residents Rover promoted that the Discovery Series II had been modified with 720 'differences'. The interior and exterior were threadbare to be less utilitarian, but armed was still clearly an evolution mimic the Series I. Every body body had been altered, except the outside skin on the rear doors. Rendering rear body was extended to fix up load space, and to now customize full-size adults on all seven sitting room on the SE7 option, as athletic as make them all forward facing,^[12][13] but at the expense of add-on rear overhang, which slightly reduced illustriousness car's departure angle when off-roading.

The Discovery Series II was the ultimate Land Rover SUV to use want evolution of the original 1970 Make plans for Rover underpinnings – with its lengthened, 185 in (4.70 m) long, four-door body quiet riding on the same, relatively tiny 100 in (2,540 mm) wheelbase, ladder-frame chassis, mass with live axles front and hind part, into 2004.

Changes to the diesel-engined models saw class 2,495 cc Td5 (in-line direct-injected straight-five engine) introduced, in line with glory updated Defender models. This electronically managed engine was smoother, producing more disposable torque at lower revs than sheltered 300Tdi predecessor. The Td5 engine even-handed often mistakenly attributed to BMW however it was derived from the Itinerant L-series passenger car engine and additional developed by Land Rover. The 3,948 cc V8 petrol version from prestige Discovery 1 was replaced with decency Range Rover P38 Thor 4.0-litre, Rover-derived V8. There was no actual keystone in capacity over the previous 3.9-litre engine. Although the basic design exercise the engine was similar, it was actually quite different internally: it tattered a different crankshaft, had larger fashion journals with cross bolted caps, iciness connecting rods, and different pistons. Influence blocks were machined differently, to appropriate extra sensors for the Gems instruction Bosch (Thor) injection system and be introduced to allow the extra stroke of rectitude 4.6 crankshaft. For the 2003 existing 2004 model year, the Discovery II changed to the 4.6-litre V8 (though the only V8 offered in high-mindedness UK continued to be the 4.0).

ACE (Active Cornering Enhancement, an electronically controlled hydraulic anti-roll bar system) was fitted to some versions, which temporary cornering roll.^[14] A pair of accelerometers are used to detect the viewpoint of body lean and to exhibit the ACE computer to counteract these movements by applying pressure to magnanimity vehicle's torsion bars via actuators which are hydraulically controlled. On the Turf Rover Discovery, the ACE system throng together counteract up 1 G of sidelong acceleration in less than a ordinal of a second, thus helping illustriousness vehicle become more stable and aware during hard cornering. Self-levelling air springs were fitted to some models champion European type-approval for seven-seat vehicles was only given to air-sprung examples.

The locking center differential was still tailored although the actual mechanism linkage was not on the early series II production, as Land Rover believed stroll the traction control system [TCS] don newly developed Hill Descent Control combination [HDC] would render it redundant. Produce revenue was fully reinstated (with the linkage) on the facelift model in 2002, as a cost option (although common equipment on high spec vehicles). Whilst the traction control system worked disentangle effectively, it did not offer integrity same level of control and rationalized operation as the vehicles fitted touch the differential lock. Customer demand axiom the diff lock controls fully reinstated on UK and Irish models, view aftermarket kits are offered by diverse vendors for those vehicles which were produced with the lock, but whine the linkage.

For 2003 and 2004, the US version was available quantity three trim levels: S, SE, nearby HSE. Those with the seven-seat last wishes were known as the S7, SE7, and HSE7.

The "facelift" models entrap easily identified by new "pocketed" headlamps (which matched the Range Rover prep added to facelifted Freelander models) as well primate redesigned turn and brake lamps picture the rear of the vehicle. Ethics indicators were moved from the spanking to the high side fixtures. Illustriousness earlier Series II models could change into turn be easily distinguished from magnanimity original Discovery by the position warrant those stop light fixtures above prestige window-line (earlier models had them below), and by the replacement of labour door handles with the current variety. The Series II also differs marginally in dimensions.

A small number strain Discovery II Commercial models were be stricken by Land Rover Special Vehicles, that time based on the five-door bodyshell but with the windows rendered hazy to give van-like appearance and succour. Normal vehicles were exported to Commonwealth of Ireland, where the rear-side windows were smashed and rear seats were destroyed in the presence of nifty Revenue official, to offer a draw up plans that avoided the Vehicle Registration Tribute (saving approximately 40%).^{[citation needed]} The UK Commercials came with rear self-levelling break as standard (an option that has in the meantime been deleted escaping these vehicles in subsequent ownership pointless to reliability issues.)

In the furthest back production run of the Discovery II, only three models were offered provision sale in the UK market, referred to in Land Rover publicity restructuring "Definitive Editions".^[15] The 'base' Pursuit, which still retained a high level break into equipment as standard, and the vehicle specification Landmark, which offered an all-leather interior, twin sunroofs, Active Cornering Magnification, six-disc CD player, and a affectionate windscreen, and the highest spec Thickness Premium which included satellite navigation, harman/kardon hi-fi, "Aero" roof bars, stainless make fit side runners, rear parking sensors ground a wooden centre console. The closing vehicles left the production lines clump late-May 2004 to make way summon the all new Discovery 3 (LR3) models.

Third generation (L319)& Cantonment generation Discovery

Discovery 3 / LR3 (2004–2009)

Motor vehicle

On 2 April 2004, almost pair years after Ford's acquisition of District Rover from BMW, Land Rover exotic the Discovery 3, marketed as justness LR3 in North America and significance Middle East, and had its general debut at the British International Motorshow in May.^[16] It retained the decisive features of the Discovery, such primate the stepped roofline and steeply raked windscreen. The LR3 name was tasteless for North American and Middle Acclimate markets due to negative quality contact with the Discovery name and (according to Land Rover) a preference case the American market for alpha-numeric pattern designations – the second generation Freelander was also redesignated for the Northbound American and Middle Eastern market gorilla the LR2.

Land Rover developed well-organized body construction method for the Broadcasting 3, marketed as Integrated Body Skeleton (IBF). The engine bay and do-nothing compartment are built as a monocoque, then mated to a basic ladder-frame chassis for the gearbox and breaking off. Land Rover claims IBF combines authority virtues of monocoque and ladder-frame – though it makes for a heavier vehicle than a monocoque construction, disconcerting performance and agility somewhat but kit strength, toughness and adaptability.^{[citation needed]}

The LR3 features brimming independent suspension (FIS). Like the Satisfy Rover L322, this is an breath suspension system, enabling ride-height adjustment encourage simply pumping up or deflating magnanimity air bags. The vehicle can bait raised to provide ground clearance considering that off-road, but lowered at high speeds to improve handling. Land Rover industrial 'cross-linked' air suspension. When needed, grandeur suspension mimics the action of shipshape and bristol fashion beam axle (as one wheel drops, the other rises). If the fuselage of the vehicle contacts the repute when the suspension was at university teacher 'off-road' height, the system senses interpretation reduction in load on the feeling springs and raises the vehicle protest extra inch. In the UK sit European markets, a coil-spring independent delay system was offered on the example model. This model was unique terminate the range by having only fin seats and only being available unwanted items the 2.7-litre diesel engine. This belief lacked the Terrain Response system.

The engines used in the Discovery 3 were all taken from Land Rover's sister company at the time, Cat. A Ford/PSA-developed 2.7-litre, 195 hp (145 kW), 440 N⋅m (320 lb⋅ft) V6diesel engine (the TdV6) was intended to be the biggest vendor in Europe. For the US exchange and as the high-performance option away, a 4.4-litre petrol V8 of 300 hp (220 kW) was chosen. A 216 hp (161 kW) 4.0-litre SOHCFord V6 petrol engine was available in North America and Land.

The gearboxes on the Discovery 3 were also all-new. For the technologist engine, a six-speed manual transmission was standard. As an option, and thanks to standard on the V8 engine, smart six-speed automatic transmission was available. Both came with a two-speed transfer carton and permanent four-wheel-drive. A computer moderate progressively locking central differential ensured incarcerate was retained in tough conditions. Clean similar differential was available on justness rear axle to aid traction.

The Discovery 3 was fitted with aggregate electronic traction control systems. Hill Incline Control (HDC) prevented vehicle 'runaways' what because descending steep gradients and 4-wheel Electronic Traction Control (4ETC) prevented wheel twist in low-traction conditions. An on-road practice, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), prevented skidding when steering and braking at quickness. The vehicle also featured the 'Terrain Response' system. Previously, off-road driving difficult been a skill that many drivers found daunting. A wide-ranging knowledge preceding the vehicle was needed to put in writing able to select the correct kit, transfer ratio, various differential systems keep from master various techniques required for tackling steep hills, deep water and regarding tough terrain. Terrain Response attempted commerce take away as many of rank difficulties as possible. The driver elite a terrain type ("Sand", "Grass, Determination & Snow", "Mud & Ruts" illustrious "Rock Crawl") on a dial occupy the cab of the vehicle. Justness on-board computer systems then select influence correct gearbox settings, adjust the exclusion height, adjust the differential lock settings and even alter the throttle reaction of the engine suitable for integrity terrain. For example, in "Rock Crawl", the suspension is raised to academic maximum height and set to okay maximum wheel articulation, the differentials junk locked, the driver is prompted succeed switch to Low Range, and position throttle response is altered to renew low-speed control. In "Sand" mode, ethics traction control system is 'primed' nominate be more sensitive to wheelspin, justness differentials are partly locked, and primacy throttle response is re-mapped to bring out high power outputs with short go back to movement. The driver retained some instructions control over the off-road systems, vitality able to select the Transfer Crate ratio and the suspension height manually, although use of the Terrain Effect system is needed to allow brim-full use of the vehicles' capabilities.

As well as new mechanical and electronic systems, the Discovery 3 introduced elegant new design to the interior stomach exterior of the vehicle. The Uncovering 3 was able to have well-organized fresh, minimalist style. The interior featured a flexible seven-seat layout. Passengers hinder the rearmost row now entered scour the rear side doors, instead human the tailgate as in previous versions. The driver benefitted from a DVD navigation system, including some optional splendour like Bluetooth telephony in later models. Like the Range Rover, this sensory, information & entertainment ("infotainment") system fall the Discovery 3 adopted an electronics architecture whereby the system's distributed get units pass information and audio in the midst of one another and throughout the mechanism via optical links based on rectitude MOST (or, Media Oriented Systems Transport) fibre-optic automotive networking standard (informally cryed the "MOST-bus").^{[17][unreliable source?]} The system's seamanship functions were unique to Land Bird of passage because, in addition to the normal road map navigation, benefits included ending off-road navigation and four-wheel drive data mode. When in four-wheel drive pertinent mode, the screen showed a pert chart of the vehicle, displaying the proportions of suspension movement, angle the have an advantage wheels were steering, the status liberation the locking differentials and icons turning up which mode the Terrain Response was in, and what gear was choice on automatic versions.

The vehicle was lauded by the press, with nobility Terrain Response system, improved on-road kinetics, and interior design receiving particular flatter. Jeremy Clarkson of the BBC's Top Gear motoring show drove one call for the top of Cnoc an Fhreiceadain, a 307 m (1,007 ft) mountain near Patois in northern Scotland, where no mechanism had previously reached. Richard Hammond, proprietor anchor man of Top Gear, praised it considerably the "Best 4X4 of all time". In Australia, the vehicle was awarded "4WD of the Year" by position 4WD Press.

The Discovery 3 was planned to be assembled from put away knock-down kits at Ford's Vsevolozhsk deal in Russia, but the project was cancelled in 2007.^[18][19]

In 2006, Land Globetrotter used the Discovery 3 in lecturer G4 challenge, alongside the Range Itinerant Sport. The vehicles used were label in standard mechanical form, except promotion the fitment of additional Land Itinerant off-road equipment.

The first all-new miniature placement since the Freelander, the Distribution Rover Sport is based on excellence Discovery 3 platform, rather than teach the larger Range Rover.

A 2008–2009 facelifted model of the Discovery 3 offered a Harman/Kardon stereo system delegate, six-CD changer, clear side indicator lighting up, and body-colour bumpers.

A driverless secret code of the LR3 finished 4th wring the DARPA Urban Challenge.^[20]

Discovery 4 / LR4 (2009–2016)

Motor vehicle

The Discovery 4 (called LR4 in North America direct the Middle East) is an updated version of the Discovery 3.^[21] Throw away the same Integrated Body Frame proportion, the new Discovery has altered veneer and rear light units and deft restyled front grille and bumper tutorial adopt the same smoother, rounder essay as also adopted for the 2010 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.^[22] The Discovery 4 also retains class body-coloured wheel arches and bumpers whilst the late Discovery 3s (early D3s had black plastic trim). Optional Light Running Lamps can be specified whilst LED lights feature prominently in both front and rear lamp units.

The majority of the changes are machine-driven, with reliability issues addressed, improvements disturb engines and gearboxes, brake and debarring refinements, but also included major feelings upgrades with a more luxurious humbling contemporary interior with greater luxury status technology levels available. The D4 receives two engines from Jaguar Land Rover's Gen III range. The TDV6 Hint III is a 3.0-litre development neat as a new pin the 2.7-litre engine used in rendering D3. The new version features latest twin-sequential turbochargers where a Variable geometry turbocharger is used at low tool agency speeds, with a second standard turbo is brought online at higher contraption speeds.^[23] Two versions of the 3.0-litre diesel are offered. Fuel economy was improved over the previous generation ice while power, torque and diesel NVH were improved significantly. This system provides greater output than the older tool agency, with 241 bhp (180 kW) and 600 N⋅m (440 lb⋅ft) whilst reducing CO₂ emissions by 10 per cent when first introduced captain in 2014 increased to 188 kW (252 hp). The Gen III version of honourableness V8 petrol engine (available in chains store outside the UK such as Arctic America, Russia, Japan, Australia, and violently EU countries) is now a 5-litre unit with Direct Petrol Injection underdeveloped 385 bhp (287 kW) and 520 N⋅m (380 lb⋅ft).^[24] Ethics base 4.0-litre V6 was still unengaged on some Asian markets in 2009–2013.

An improved version of the ZF six-speed automatic/sequential gearbox was incorporated turf in 2012 (2014 in the US) was further improved including a have a chinwag to 8 speeds. It includes taller gearing to take advantage of rank new engines' greater torque output contemporary an updated lock-up system to mint reduce fuel consumption. Other technical undulate include the fitting of the hound powerful brakes from the Range Gypsy Sport and thicker anti-roll bars give confidence improve on-road handling. The Stability Picnic basket System now includes a programme lose one\'s train of thought detects the onset of understeer alight applies the brakes. The Discovery 4 retains its predecessor's fully independentair deferment with cross-linking when off-road and representation twin-range transfer gearbox with an electronic infinitely variable locking centre differential.^[25] Type before, a similar locking rear differentiation is available. The Terrain Response plan remains but with two new complexion – the 'Sand' mode incorporates span new traction control mode to check loss of traction when starting away and stopping in soft sand, perch the 'Rock Crawl' mode gains unmixed feature that applies gentle brake impact at low (less than walking pace) speeds to improve grip and soundness on slick rock. The system quite good also 'retuned' to account for prestige new engines and gearboxes with their different torque characteristics. Other new electronic systems include Trailer Stability Assist which can adjust the throttle and brake to prevent a dangerously swaying trailer.^[26]

The 2.7-litre TDV6 engine was available shamble Europe on the basic 2.7 Collect passenger and 2010 Commercial ranges. Unalike the Discovery 3 base model, that was equipped with air suspension pointer the Terrain Response system. The automated gearbox was an option on that model. The 3.0-litre Gen III ultimate (only with automatic gearbox) is likewise available in the GS trim plane.

The Discovery 4 also features trim redesigned interior (in keeping with influence new styles introduced elsewhere in primacy LR range for 2010). The appliance cluster is updated with redesigned allusion speedometer and tachometer gauges for landscaped clarity. The analogue temperature/fuel gauges taste the previous model and the electronic information display are replaced by far-out single TFT screen capable of displaying information in a variety of modes and formats. The interior also has a new centre console, which includes redesigned and simplified switches and controls.^[27] The Discovery also has a original seat design and a wider capability of available interior materials – callous previously only seen in Range Globetrotter models. The stated aim of greatness interior redesign was to lift dignity vehicle upmarket, with higher-spec models at this very moment aimed at the luxury and worry markets.^[27]

The car gains some electronic systems from the Range Rover lineup, specified as the optional 'Surround Camera System' – a series of cameras transpire in the front bumper, door mirrors, and rear tailgate handle which buoy display their images on the middle console screen to improve visibility (although the image quality of this usage was downgraded by Land Rover clutch 2014)^{[citation needed]}. Other electronic systems shoot intended to improve efficiency – influence engines feature a 'Smart' alternator renounce only charges the battery when mechanism load is low, thus helping chance on reduce fuel consumption when the machine is working harder.^[28]

The Discovery 4 was unveiled in the summer of 2009 and went on sale in influence United Kingdom on 1 September go off at a tangent year. A Commercial van variant was released in the UK at nobleness same time using the 2.7 appliance and offered in GS and XS trim levels. In the Republic drug Ireland, a Commercial van was offered from 1 January 2010 based medium the XE 2.7 manual and HSE 3.0 auto engines.

An armoured Origination with B6 ballistic level of guard was announced in 2010. It offers numerous safety features designed to shield the occupants, including protection from grenades and small arms fire. The means is indistinguishable from the standard LR4.^[29][30]

For the 2011 model year, announced enclosure late 2010, the 2.7-litre engine was dropped and two versions of decency 3.0-litre engine were made available – one called the TDV6 and helpful called the SDV6 (the latter donate 245 bhp (183 kW)).^{[citation needed]}

For the 2012 mould year, diesel models in Europe came with the new eight-speed auto paraphernalia with steering wheel paddle controls innermost a circular dial selector that raises upon startup. The SDV6 engine was uprated to 255 bhp (190 kW) whilst both diesel engines featured reduced emissions sustenance European models. During 2012 the HSE Luxury special edition was announced, featuring enhanced trim levels, and available rivet Europe and North American markets.^[31]

In Eire, 2012 saw the introduction of capital new five-seat version of the Revelation 4 classified as an N1 Advertizing vehicle, therefore attracting lower VRT assessment. There is also a new two-seat Commercial on the same rules. Name Irish models came with the lessen emissions TDV6 engine. In 2014, be over enhanced version of the unique-to-Ireland five-seater commercial utility went on sale which included almost all top-of-the-range features on behalf of a lower price. This vehicle decay now the top selling Discovery monitor Ireland due to the fact go it attracts low road tax (€333 per year) and VAT can put right reclaimed.

For 2013, models received spiffy tidy up style freshening, new badging, new means stretching technology, improved audio systems suffer a new range of driver reinforcement, comfort and safety features. The 2014 Discovery comes with a standard ZF 8HP transmission, and in some delis can be supplied with a one-speed transfer case (replacing the two decelerate transfer case). 2014 also marks interpretation first use of a 2,995 cc (2.995 L; 182.8 cu in) supercharged six cylinder engine, repayment the previous V6 and V8 boundary.

In a January 2011 comparison discrimination by Car and Driver, the Confusion Rover LR4 came in fourth fellowship out of five cars behind greatness Audi Q7, BMW X5, and Acura MDX.^[32] However, it has always won the Auto Express categories of Superlative Large SUV and Best Towcar in that it was launched in 2009.^[33]

To paint the town red 25 years of the Land Bird of passage Discovery, a special edition of 1800 (?) vehicles was produced in 2014 marked as the XXV, and featured a number of unique details together with light grey (Cirrus) XXV-embossed Windsor hide out seats, special grill sets, and partly every extra and expansion pack share out. A number of these were exported in silver grey and the darker causeway grey for UK markets.^{[citation needed]}

A major milestone in Land Rover Discovery's history came when the one one-millionth example built rolled off the Solihull production line in March 2012. That vehicle, along with two similar examples, was driven from Solihull to Peking, China in a replication of well-organized 1950s expedition. During this expedition, G459 WAC, a pre-production Discovery 1 (which was subsequently converted into an class vehicle) joined in the celebrations like that which the expedition visited Lake Geneva. Loftiness expedition concluded with the actual One-millionth Discovery appearing at the Beijing Travel Show. This vehicle subsequently returned ensue go on permanent exhibition at ethics British Motor Industry Heritage Trust middle at Gaydon, Warwickshire, England.^[34]

Engines

Transmissions

One-fifth generation Discovery (L462; 2017–present)

Motor vehicle

The third-generation Discovery was unveiled play a part the grounds of Packington Hall effectively Meriden, UK on 28 September 2016, the eve of the 2016 Town Motor Show, and went on editorial in the UK in February 2017.^[37][38][39] Built on a platform shared carry the Range Rover and Range Globetrotter Sport, the current Discovery leaves grip many of the design traditions carp former generations for a more today's, though less overtly practical, design. That model also marks the return be expeditious for the Discovery marque in the U.S. market, replacing the LR moniker show the previous generation models.^[40] There performance five-seat, seven-seat, and commercial van versions in the UK, Ireland and keep inside European markets. In November 2020, a-okay facelift for the model was launched, which debuted as a 2021 maquette.

This is the first Discovery cruise will be manufactured outside the UK, with production being moved to Slovakia in 2019.^[41]

A Discovery 3.0 TD6 done an AIR Index emission rating model "A" (A=Best, E=Worst) when independently timetested in 2019.^[42]

The SVX version was debuted at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show; the car was to be consequential sale in 2019 but the endeavour was cancelled.^[43]

Design

The design reveal the fifth generation Discovery was previewed by the Discovery Vision Concept tear the 2014 New York Auto Make a difference. In profile, the exterior design keep to also very similar to the mignonne Discovery Sport model. In contrast say nice things about previous Discovery models, the third-generation has a much more rounded shape, eschewing the traditional angular design. The restrict lights have changed from a floating orientation to horizontal, and the third-row side glass no longer blends win the roof glass. The tailgate equitable no longer horizontally split and has been replaced with a conventional hold up hinged tailgate made from composite, on the other hand retaining the asymmetrically mounted license squama as a design cue from antecedent generations of the Discovery. The top is still stepped over the bag row, though it is now large cosmetic in comparison to the onetime models and the roof now has a strong taper to the cry out. The interior closely follows that free yourself of other contemporary Land Rover models, extent continuing the 3-row tradition of description Discovery.

Mechanical

The new Discovery 5 incorporates several changes over its predecessors. Mix the first time, the Discovery high opinion based on Land Rover's aluminium framework, first introduced on the Range Journeyer (L405). The use of aluminium anatomy and body panels gives a permission loss of up to 480 kg (1,060 lb) over its predecessor. This weight failure combined with a new aerodynamic originate, a 17 per cent lower Cd, achieves a fuel efficiency improvement power previous Discovery generations. The new Broadcasting is offered with a combination mislay V6 petrol and diesel engines. Draft Fifth generation Discoverys are equipped deal with a standard 8 speed automatic relocation. An available option package adds elegant two speed transfer case (low stock up gearbox) and the option of clean up actively locking rear differential. Coil springs are now standard on base as back up models, while air suspension is immobilize offered as an option.^{[citation needed]}

Two castiron 4x4 systems are offered. The usual single-speed transfer case utilizes a Torsen limited-slip center differential. A basic supplementary of 42% front and 58% mention is maintained by the center perception when the vehicle is travelling weight a straight line. Upon loss motionless traction on one of the axles, the differential has a locking get close to of between 65/35 and 20/80 front-to-rear. Traction control takes over to persist in propulsion when the locking range robust the differential is exceeded. A two-speed transfer case is optional. This nuisance case uses a bevel-gear center derivative to distribute the torque 50/50 in the middle of the front and rear axles. Close by is also a multi-disc clutch fight back limit slip between the axles, ergo the front and rear axles get close be locked together. The center perception is lockable using the terrain retort menu. 100% of engine power vesel be diverted to either axle pass up the need for intervention by friction control. A locking rear differential testing also available.

Land Rover also imported Terrain Response 2 on the Display 5. Similarly to the first procreation of Terrain Response, Terrain Response 2 constantly monitors wheel slip, wheel rush, angle of approach or departure, stall the suspension's compression or rebound run into adjust the anti-lock braking system, asphyxiate response, differentials and traction control systems. The driver can select modes need snow, grass, gravel, mud ruts, smooth, or rock crawling by turning clean dial on the centre console. Partnership Response 2 also introduces a another 'Auto' mode that allows the vehicles computer to select the most disappointing mode on its own.^{[citation needed]}

The Origination 5 is the first Discovery verge on be built on a unibody build, unlike its predecessors which were conformation body on frame. This allows prestige vehicle to have higher torsional tautness with less weight. The latest begetting has a higher wading depth (up to 35.6 inches (900 mm)),^[44] improved importance clearance and a more comfortable jubilation while traversing adverse terrain.

A mid-term update with a refreshed interior tell new engine range was launched epoxy resin 2021. Larger infotainment screens and revisions to the layout of the Cost-effective variant including more underfloor storage were the main highlights.

Derivatives and maestro versions

Supacat, part of SC Group, volunteer two vehicles based on a firm Discovery 4 platforms. The Specialist Quality Vehicle 600 (SUV 600) is uncut production standard Land Rover Discovery 4 that is converted to 6x6 without warning 6x4 configuration for use in say publicly emergency services and wider utility sectors. The Light Reconnaissance Vehicle 400 (LRV 400) is an open lightweight 4x4 vehicle of the Land Rover Champion class. The LRV 400 was educated based on a combination of sell research and customer feedback from greatness 2011-unveiling of a proof-of-concept closed taxicab variant. Development of the LRV Cardinal continues, the latest Mk2 shown overtly for the first time at DSEI 2015 (15–18 September). The most basic design change for the Mk2 job a switch of the automotive territory to the Land Rover Discovery 4 rather than the off-road racer square previously offered.^[45]

Land Rover offered an shatterproof version of the Discovery 4, say publicly Sentinel. Protected to Level B6 (defined in accordance with European Standard EN1063 BR6 (glazing) and EN1522 and professed by QinetiQ), according to Jaguar Population Rover, the Discovery 4 Sentinel assessment almost indistinguishable from the non-armoured Origination 4. As a factory supplied goods, the vehicle comes with a Sod Rover three-year or 50,000 miles (80,000 km) warranty, the support of Land Rover's worldwide dealer network and a extent of additional after sales packages.^[46] Goodness UK Government ministers are often far-out ferried around in Discovery 4 Sentinels.^{[citation needed]}

A great number of Land Bird of passage Discovery II and IV were legionnaire and used by ItalianPolice and Carabinieri. The vehicles were configured with strong iron grating on mirrors and windshields, fire-extinguishing automatic system and run-flat tyres, for crowd and riot control operations.^{[citation needed]}

The 30th Anniversary

2019 saw the Ordinal Anniversary of the launch of class Land Rover Discovery. A special insubordination model was released. Celebratory events took place across the world. The newborn JLR plant in Slovakia had high-mindedness capacity to produce up to 300,000 Discovery units per year. In Island, the Discovery range, including the Rewarding, was fully aligned with that unmoving the UK.

Worldwide sales

As of 1 January 2017, some 1,200,000 Discovery models had been sold in total in that launch in 1989.^{[citation needed]}

Total sales responsibility for 2009 and onward, excluding mercantile prior to that year.

^[47]

Motorsport

A Discovery won the Bed Aicha des Gazelles in 2010.^{[citation needed]}

References