08 Apr 09
Land Rover Discovery
The Discovery for 2010 gets new 3.0-litre diesel engine, as used in the Jaguar XF.
The TDV6, with piezo-injection and twin sequential turbochargers (one small turbo for initial start-up and a larger one to kick in for more sustained bursts of speed) delivers 243bhp and 443lb-ft of torque. It's good for 0-60mph in nine seconds, and fuel economy is improved to 30.4mpg; carbon dioxide output is 244g/km.
A supercharged 5.0-litre petrol V8 (also shared with Jaguar models) is on offer in some markets: with this 461lb-ft unit, the Disco'll do 0-60 in 5.9 seconds, but fuel economy is just 18.9mpg. An updated six-speed automatic gearbox is fitted with the TDV6 and substantial revisions have been made to the suspension and steering.
Off-road capability has been further improved with a new Gradient Release Control function (supplementing the familiar Hill Descent Control), a Sand Launch programme and improved Rock Crawl mode for the electronic Terrain Response system. Trailer stability control is now available too.
Inside, softer leather upholstery is used, there are new front seats with height-adjustable head restraints, and new colour options include 'nutmeg' and a darker brown 'arabica'. Trim details include a soft-touch metallic finish, and replacing some of the switchgear are touch-screen controls.
Sales of the Discovery 4 start in September 2009. Pricing will be announced later this summer.
