Celebrating 35 Years of the Land Rover Discovery
As the Discovery turns 35, we take a look back at the making of an icon and how it remains one of the go-to luxury family SUVs.
The Land Rover Discovery has been a hit with motorists for decades – three and half to be exact. First introduced in 1989, it brought not just a new range, but a new lifestyle for adventure-seekers.
From its early beginnings right up to the modern day, Discovery has always kept in mind the needs of those it serves. Read on for a look back over its history, and how it keeps up with modern-day demands, as well as the new celebratory 35th Edition.
Discovering the Discovery
The Discovery was first launched in the UK in October 1989. It was built on the same platform as the Range Rover, which had been introduced earlier in 1970, with the same chassis and all-wheel drive system.
Engines were smaller initially, and pricing was also lowered to appeal to a mass audience. Some fun facts about the early Discovery:
- It only had three doors originally, before a five-door model was released in 1990.
- Behind the second row there were two jump seats.
- In the year of its launch, it won a British Design Award.
- It included lifestyle accessories such as a designated magazine holder and a removable cloth centre console bag.
Over the years that followed, the Discovery would gradually evolve in response to changing demands. We’ve outlined its growth in the timeline below:
First Generation
Series 1 (1989-1998)
- Five-door and three-door van options in selected countries.
- 2.0-litre, 3.5-litre, 3.9-litre and 4.0-litre petrol engines. Plus, two 2.5-litre diesel engines.
- Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Series 2 (1998-2004)
- Five-door body style as standard.
- 4.0-litre and 4.6-litre petrol engines, and a 2.5-litre diesel engine.
- Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Second Generation
Discovery 3 (2004-2009)
- Five-door body styles.
- 4.0-litre and 4.4-litre petrol engines, and a 2.7-litre diesel engine.
- Six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Discovery 4 (2009-2016)
- Five-door body styles.
- 3.0-litre or 5.0-litre petrol engines, and 2.7-litre or 3.0-litre diesel engines.
- Six-speed manual transmission. Either six or eight-speed automatic transmission.
Third Generation
Discovery/ L462 (2017-Present)
- Five-door body styles.
- 2.0-litre or 3.0-litre petrol engines, and 2.0-litre or 3.0-litre turbodiesel engines.
- Eight-speed automatic transmission.
Modern versatility
So, how does a wildly popular seven-seater SUV continue to stand out in modern times? The latest Discovery builds on the versatility that has become strongly associated with the brand.
More capable than ever, the Discovery now features a range of driving dynamics that make it perfect for families who want to explore.
With a spacious, modular interior, the Discovery can be reconfigured with a simple tap of the 11.4” touchscreen. Lower second or third-row seats to expand the 172-litre boot space and store larger items or heavier luggage easily.
As for connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to pair your smartphone. While the Pivi Pro infotainment system makes navigation, music streaming and more seamless.
Packed with the latest driver aids, the Discovery now offers greater safety and off-road capability. Features include:
- Wade Sensing
- All Terrain Progress Control
- Advanced Tow Assist
- Terrain Response 2
- Lane Keep Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition with Adaptive Speed Limiter
- Speed Proportional Steering
Front and rear parking aids make manoeuvres easier than ever, while a 3D surround camera allows you to see confidently from all angles.
Designed around you, the Discovery also comes with features like a remote boot release, stop/start system, and powered tailgate.
Trims include the Metropolitan Edition, Dynamic HSE, Dynamic SE, and S versions. To celebrate its anniversary, a new 35th Edition Discovery has been launched, with an even more luxurious design.
New features include 20-way heated and cooled massage seats, a heated steering wheel, and four-zone climate control. A 36-month subscription to the Thatcham Secure Tracker Pro system also brings you the latest security features.
The 35th Edition will be available in two distinctive colour options – Santorini Black and Carpathian Grey. Other exterior features include the Bright Atlas grille, ‘Discovery’ lettering, and 22” Gloss Black wheels.
As for performance, the Discovery 35th Edition will be the most powerful version yet. Thanks to a 345bhp D350 engine producing 700Nm torque, reaching 0-60mph in 5.9 seconds.
Mild-hybrid technology also makes it more efficient, harvesting energy lost when slowing down for power. WLTP test cycle figures indicate a combined fuel economy of up to 34.0mpg.
Experience the new Discovery at Vertu Motors
Ready to embrace the journey? Browse our latest Discovery deals available at Vertu Motors. Want to get a feel for your new Land Rover? Book a test drive at your local Vertu Land Rover dealership.
With our attractive finance options, you can spread the costs if you wish and pay in monthly instalments.
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