Land Rover Discovery Sport

Land Rover Discovery Sport

If there is a Land Rover Discovery then why have a Discovery Sport too? Well, this full-sized sport utility vehicle (SUV) offers buyers a more compact and affordable alternative to the bigger Land Rover Discovery. That doesn’t mean that it lacks in the off-road department though; this is a premium SUV, that is efficient, technologically-advanced and practical, keeping its occupants safe and comfortable in any conditions, with a range of options, including a plug-in electric version.

The Exterior

Bigger than the more road-orientated Evoque, new or used Land Rover Discovery Sport vehicles feature typically Discovery design elements, like the clamshell bonnet, rising beltline and the tapered roof. Proportions have been optimised to project a more striking visual appeal with new LED headlamps at the front and rear, alongside an updated front grille and bumpers.

Available in Discovery Sport, S, SE and HSE trim, in addition to the R-Dynamic variants that mark themselves out with unique bumpers and trim detail, this almost perfect family car with a 5+2 seating configuration has as standard a reversing camera. There are plenty of available options too, like a ‘ground-view’ and a suite of driver assistance programmes. Obviously, not all options will appear on used vehicles but the Discovery Sport is very well equipped even at base level.

The Interior

There are four trim levels to choose from: the base Discovery Sport, S, SE, and HSE, in either standard or R-Dynamic guise. All come very well equipped as standard so used car buyers will not be disappointed. There’s heated seats, a great 10” touchscreen, cruise and climate control plus a reversing camera. A leather interior and touchscreen navigation are upgrades though.

As with most Land Rover models, the basic Pivi infotainment system is standard, but most higher grade variants get the Pivi Pro version. Pivi is easy to use, has straightforward menus and responsive software. It’s one of the best infotainment set-ups around.

Almost every version comes with seven seats or, as the British brand choose to style it, ‘5+2’ as the third row seats are quite small. This isn’t vital however because the versatility of this interior can’t be beaten thanks to sliding middle and front seats. The Disco Sport is one of the roomiest and most practical SUV’s in this sector. The boot is generous and can handle up to an impressive 1794 litres.

Driving The Land Rover Discovery Sport

The latest choice of power plants offer improved economy and lower emissions thanks to next-generation mild-hybrid Ingenium four-cylinder diesel engines. The latest addition is a plug-in hybrid version which augments the new engine options. Available in two power outputs, the diesels deliver enhanced efficiency, smoother power and superior refinement. Co² emissions are now from 163g/km, depending of course on the version selected. That’s still low for such an all-purpose vehicle.

Both diesels use Land Rover’s latest mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology when paired with all-wheel-drive, featuring a battery to harvest energy lost under deceleration. The result is a smoother stop-start operation and optimised fuel economy. Petrol options have also expanded with the addition of the Discovery Sport Black. This model is powered by a turbo-charged petrol engine producing 286bhp (290PS) delivering effortless and refined performance.

There’s a choice of alloy wheels from 18” to 21”. Generally speaking, the smaller wheels tend to make for a more comfortable ride thanks to the deeper tyres fitted; none will disappoint though. The standard suspension can be upgraded to an adaptive system for greater ride control.

Don’t be fooled by the word ‘Sport’. This is there to differentiate the car from it’s bigger sibling. Handling on twisting roads is as would be expected for a tall car, but the steering is light and progressive and any compromise made in on-road manners is more than made up for with off-road capability. This great car can go pretty much anywhere it likes.

Is It Reliable?

It certainly should be. Land Rover have made great strides in reliability for these latest models, enhancing the Discovery reputation. There are no reports of any major issues, so Land Rover Discovery Sport buyers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand or other global destinations can find out about availability by getting in touch with us here at MHH International. Ask about our comprehensive service.