Land Rover Discovery Sport

Replacing the ageing Freelander 2, the new Land Rover Discovery Sport is the first luxury SUV in its segment to feature 5+2 seating layout. Rolled out in four variants namely S, SE, HSE and HSE luxury, the model series gets power from the same 2.2 litre SD4 diesel powertrain that served in the outgoing version. The engine is available in two states of tune and works in unison with an automatic transmission. However, the company may come up with the advanced 2.0 litre Ingenium engines in future which are claimed to be very frugal in nature. Other than the cosmetic upgrades done on the outside the premium SUV gets a number of features upping the comfort quotient inside. Brought to India via CKD route Land Rover Discovery Sport price in India is positioned competitively. For accessories and optional features available on the SUV get to the Land Rover Discovery Sport dealers in your locality.

Measuring 4600 mm long, 2173 mm wide and 1724 mm high (height includes antenna), the SUV is a huge offering, although it does not appear awkwardly humongous. The best thing about the design is its mundane silhouette backed by voguish styling. Land Rover Discovery Sport pictures give a hint of the robust styling done on the outside. From the front, Discovery Sport appears commanding; the windscreen is large while engine hood is relatively short. Most of the styling is done on the overly wide nose and chin which altogether look bold. Up front, honey comb chrome grille is equipped which is flanked by modishly designed head lights. Adaptive xenon head lamps with LED signature is available solely on the range topping trim while mid level variants come with xenon head lamps with LED signature and halogen head lights are restricted to the base trim. As we go down on the bumper front fog lights with chrome housings are equipped and a black coloured honey comb grille is also evident. Besides, the lower bumper also gets silver skid plate and side skirts painted in black. Black body cladding all around the vehicle accentuates its sporty character. There is a side stepper too that aides effortless entry into the cabin. Tyres are large but the gap between wheel arches and tyres seem a little awkward. 17 inch, 10 spoke alloy wheels are available on the base and mid level trims while the 18 inch, nine spoke alloy rim is present only on the range topping trim. Chrome work is done minimally; instead you get to see more of black. The C pillar is finished in glossy black and even the window frame features black outlining. Outside rear view mirrors and outside door handles both match body colour. The ORVMs get a number of functions like power adjustment, power folding, memory function and heated mirrors. Flanks of the SUV get three windows, which are arranged uniquely, the first two windows in front are placed together while the third one is placed separately merging into the C pillar. Rear too appears sporty, all thanks to the integrated spoiler, redesigned tail lamps, a thin black strip running on the boot lid merging carefully into the tail lamps, dual themed bumper, reflectors, chrome skid plates and chrome tail pipe. Fixed panoramic roof, automatic head lights and rain sensing wipers are some of the other significant features that are available on the outside.

At 2741 mm, the wheelbase measures lavishly implying into an extravagant cabin space offering enough space for passengers in front and rear, however there isn’t much space for passengers sitting in third row. Inner styling is a tad disappointing; the mono tone dark grey interiors look sombre. Leather seats are exquisite to the top spec grades, while mid level trim features partial leather seats and base variant gets cloth seats. Top spec variant gets ten way adjustable electric seats in front along with memory function for driver and passenger seats. The 60:40 split rear seats can be slid as well as reclined, an arm rest is also provided on the rear along with centre arm rest. A sliding arm rest is placed in the centre console. Leather covering is seen only around the steering wheel. Comfort goodies such as passive entry, cruise control, front & rear parking aid, parallel and perpendicular park assist are on offer. A two-zone climate control with air quality sensing and climate control with high level vents in second row ensure maintaining pleasant temperature inside. Auto dimming interior lights and customer configurable interior mood lighting spell elegance inside the cabin. An 8 inch colour touch-screen is standard across variants while Meridian surround sound audio system with 17 speakers is available only on the top end trim. Besides, rear seat entertainment and navigation system are other vital features aboard.

Dishing out power is the powerful 2.2 litre, four cylinder, diesel engine pumping out maximum power output 110 KW at 4000 RPM along with peak torque of 400 Nm at 1750 RPM. The engine is available in two tunes, the higher power outputting version of the motor is housed in the range topping trim which is capable of churning out 140 KW at 3500 RPM along with 420 Nm at 1750 RPM. Land Rover Discovery Sport transmission is a nine-speed automatic gearbox is linked to the mighty engine. Drive is transmitted to all four wheels through an all-wheel drive system that comes with Terrain response.

Since there is no change in the engine line-up hence the claimed fuel economy delivered by SUV remains unchanged at 12.35 kmpl.

A string of features have been installed in the vehicle to ensure prudent braking experience and vouching for a safe driving experience as well. To start with features like anti-lock-braking system with electronic traction control, roll stability control, dynamic stability control and adaptive dynamics with MagneRide. For safety of driver and co-passenger, sidebags, front airbags and curtainbags are put in place. Perimetric and volumetric protection along with 24 X 7 road side assistance is also available on the SUV.

A string of features have been installed in the vehicle to ensure prudent braking experience and vouching for a safe driving experience as well. To start with features like anti-lock-braking system with electronic traction control, roll stability control, dynamic stability control and adaptive dynamics with MagneRide. For safety of driver and co-passenger, sidebags, front airbags and curtainbags are put in place. Perimetric and volumetric protection along with 24 X 7 road side assistance is also available on the SUV.

If looks hold primary importance to you than this is your SUV, it looks stylish and at the same time has a robust semblance. Interiors are spacious well tucked with features, though interior styling is not as imposing as on other premium SUVs in the segment, but on the whole it is decent enough. There is aplenty storage space within the cabin and in the luggage compartment. 2.2 litre diesel motor continues to serve loyalty, the off-road capability and ride quality both are top notch. On the whole, it is a modish looking SUV that will definitely make head turns while on the go.