Land Rover reveals updated Discovery with new diesel and hybrid options

Land Rover has updated the Discovery seven-seat SUV with styling changes and new engine choices along with the introduction of the brand’s latest infotainment system. Land Rover says the family SUV has undergone a “bold exterior evolution”. What that actually means is some new signature LED lights, scrolling indicators, an alternative front bumper on new R-Dynamic models and a new black panel running the width of the rear of the car. For better or worse, the offset numberplate remains. Inside, the Discovery follows the rest of the Land Rover in introducing the new Pivi Pro media and navigation system. To house the 11.4-inch touchscreen, the Discovery’s centre console has been redesigned and there’s a new four-spoke steering wheel with hidden-until-lit haptic buttons. The new system is faster than before and uses two LTE modems to allow always-on internet connectivity bringing more media and navigation functions as well as the ability to update the car’s software over the air. More subtle changes include reshaped seats in the second row with improved support, the relocation of air vents to improve ventilation, and the addition of “click and go” tablet holders in the front seat backs which feature USB charging points. The Discovery also gets the cabin air ionisation system seen in other Land Rovers which scans incoming air quality and filters out allergens and harmful particulates. (Photo: Land Rover) The updated Discovery features three new six-cylinder hybrid engines alongside a 297bhp four-cylinder petrol. A 3.0-litre diesel hybrid is available with 246bhp or 297bhp. Replacing the SD4 and SDV6 diesels, the new units feature 48V mild hybrid technology to help meet tough new emissions regulations. A 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild hybrid petrol offers 355bhp and a 0-62mph time of just 6.2 seconds. A new intelligent all-wheel-drive system, also seen on the 2021 Defender, allows the Discovery to switch to two-wheel-drive in certain circumstances to improve fuel economy without compromising its off-road abilities. The Discovery also features configurable Terrain Response so drivers can set their own off-road parameters, and adaptive air suspension on all but entry level diesel models. Prices for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery start at £53,090 and it is available to order now. (Photo: Land Rover)