Rediscovering The Discovery

The Land Rover Discovery is one of the world’s most stylish, capable and versatile SUVs. The 2014 Discovery receives a new look, new badging, new fuel stretching technology, improved audio systems and a new range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features to broaden its appeal even further.

The Discovery has been given a new ‘face’ and numerous detail exterior changes.  It now has a new front grille, new front bumper, new headlamp design, new daytime running lights with a distinctive LED signature, all of which further enhance the Discovery’s appearance. For the first time, the name ‘Discovery’ name replaces ‘Land Rover’ on the bonnet and the number 4 has been removed from the tailgate leaving just the word ‘Discovery.’

The latest version continues to be available with the class-leading 256PS 3.0 SDV6 engine, but now the CO2 emissions are reduced from 230g/km to 213g/km, and fuel consumption improved to 35.3mpg. All models are equipped with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission plus there’s the further option of Stop/Start technology which can be switched off should the circumstances dictate. Available driver aids also include Wade Sensing (a technology unique to Land Rover), Blind Spot Monitoring, Closing Vehicle Sensing, Reverse Traffic Detection and T-junction Cameras.

For music fans the Discovery has a Meridian premium audio system.  The standard system features 8 speakers and 380 Watts of power, while the Meridian Surround system (on the HSE model featured )produces an impressive 825 Watts output and features 17 speakers.  Jimmy Hendriks has never sounded so good.

This is a big vehicle but on the road it doesn’t seem that way. The steering is commendably light – but not too light – and for such a large car it manoeuvres in a nimble fashion. Certainly there was an occasion where the size was awkward but in reality how often does that happen?

The 3.0L V6, although a diesel, has ample power and acceleration and the obligatory 62mph dash is achieved in a brisk 8.8 seconds. With its versatile seven-seat leather interior the cabin is a great place to be for all the family as the miles disappear effortlessly beneath the wheels. Off-road, should the need arise, it goes without saying that the Discovery has few, if any, peers. If the going gets really tough it is simply a matter of pressing a button to configure the vehicle to match the terrain. In short, the 2014 Land Rover Discovery is quite a car. Not cheap at around £54k depending, but you really do get your money’s worth. Impressive.