This SUV continues Land Rover’s lineup of rides with top-notch off-road capability, but in an upscale modern package. There’s room for seven across three rows of seats, although the third row is snug and best suited to kids. Two turbocharged engines are offered. The entry-level power plant is a 296-hp four-cylinder and the upgrade engine is a smooth and refined 355-hp inline six.
On the road, the 2023 Land Rover Discovery provides an agreeable ride but other less adventurous rivals, such as the BMW X5, the Porsche Cayenne, and the Volvo XC90 are more engaging to drive.
What those SUVs lack, however, is the Land Rover’s heavier-duty off-roading gear, which includes an optional two-speed transfer case.
Engine & Performance
All Discovery models come with full-time all-wheel drive as standard, but buyers can choose between a 296-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, the latter of which employs a 48-volt hybrid system.
The Land Rover’s adventure-ready mission caters to those seeking an SUV for much more than just trolling the parking lot at the mall, but it comes at the expense of on-road dexterity. The Discovery’s handling isn’t as ponderous as one might expect, but it still feels clumsy and top-heavy when changing direction.
Overall ride quality is quite good, and even harsh bumps are dealt with easily. Steering feel, however, is nonexistent, especially on-center, where a large dead spot creates a need for frequent steering corrections when cruising on the highway. If towing a heavy load is on the docket, the Disco is rated to tow up to 8200 pounds.
Fuel Economy
The EPA estimates that the turbocharged four-cylinder model will deliver 19 mpg city and 22 mpg highway while the hybridized six-cylinder powertrain is rated for 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy test, our six-cylinder test vehicle managed only 22 mpg.
Interior
The Discovery’s interior materials are upscale, and the design is appropriately posh. Luxury features abound throughout the cabin, and the level of comfort only increases as you climb through the more expensive trims.
Power-adjustable, heated leather seats with optional massage function for the driver and front-seat passenger offer good support and even better cushioning. Without adequate space to haul gear there would be fewer opportunities for adventure.
With both of its rear rows of seats folded, the Disco’s spacious cabin proved to be quite accommodating with room for 29 of our carry-on suitcases
Safety & Driver-Assistance Features
A handful of driver-assistance features are standard here, but more advanced tech will require upgrading to an optional package. The key safety features are lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and automated emergency braking.
Land Rover also offers a novel 360-degree exterior camera system that also provides a view of what is directly under the front end of the Discovery, the area blocked from view by the hood which is intended to improve safety when driving off-road.
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