A good name is more desirable than great riches. That is the logic behind Land Rover’s choice to name their new SUV the Discovery. This year marks the introduction of the 5th generation Disco. We’ve known it as the LR2 and LR3 in the US, and it has been ingrained in our popular culture as a rugged machine.
They are beginning to trickle across the pond, so we were elated to find a new one waiting at our front door. We spent a week with a new HSE Luxury TD6, and it didn’t disappoint. Starting with a solid foundation, it is the first unibody Discovery, sharing the same aluminum construction methods with the Range Rovers. Not only is it stronger, engineers were able to shed 1,058 lbs along the way.
Holding up the body are coil springs, leaving air suspension as an option. Another rugged feature is a low-range transfer case. It allows the locking differential to crawl over tough obstacles. It makes them look easy with 443 lb-ft of torque available. The 3.0 liter V6 makes 254 horsepower thanks to oil power. Diesel is back, and cleaner than ever. In the collection downstairs is a 1985 Defender 130 with a TD5 diesel, and it is fun to have that level of power available. We can’t compliment the engine enough because you will forget you are driving a diesel. The 20″ wheels are decent, but something more aggressive would be nice.
As part of the HSE & Luxury packages, the interior is spared no expense. Windsor leather covers the 16-way adjustable seats, as you serenaded by the 825-watt Meridian audio system. If you aren’t familiar with their abilities, they have developed and patented several reference-level systems for theater audio and video. Found in only the highest level Jaguar and Land Rover models, the audio quality is unmatched.
2018 Land Rover Discovery Drives Over World’s Largest Lego Structure
Even with speakers hidden behind every surface, the Discovery is still able to ford water to a depth of 33.5″. A trademark of the Land Rover brand, Discovery has no fear of leaving the pavement and getting muddy. Loaded with coworkers, the acceleration seems identical to a solitary driver. Brake-boosting allows for a furious launch, as the terrain-response system deals with the immense torque. You will have great visibility thanks to large windows and a traditional tailgate. If you have a few toys, the Disco can tow. It is rated to pull 7,716 lbs, handy when your friend’s dump truck breaks down.
Also along for the ride are all the latest safety gadgets. Lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitors, and driver condition system will make sure you and your surroundings stay safe. All this can be yours for $87,110. The price isn’t too steep considering the amenities, but it would be nice to have more horsepower for highway passing. The brakes are another area for improvement, as the pedal takes some time to learn. If you feel up to a new Discovery, click below to find our nearest dealer and stay with us for all your Land Rover updates.
