2017 Land Rover Discovery: 7-Seat Luxury And Off-Road Power

The 2017 Land Rover Discovery marks a bold evolution for the iconic SUV lineup, shedding its rugged predecessor image for a sleeker, more sophisticated profile while preserving its legendary off-road dominance. Built on a lightweight aluminum architecture shared with premium Range Rover models, this fifth-generation vehicle drops nearly 500kg from the previous model’s weight, enhancing efficiency, handling, and agility without compromising capability.

Redesign and Exterior Evolution

Departing from the boxy, utilitarian aesthetic of the Discovery 4 (known as LR4 in some markets), the 2017 model adopts smoother, more aerodynamic lines that echo Range Rover elegance. Its elongated wheelbase of 2923mm and overall length approaching five meters create an imposing yet streamlined presence on the road. Key exterior highlights include stepped roofline for third-row headroom, prominent wheel arches signaling off-road intent, and full-size spare wheel mounted externally for practicality.

Ground clearance reaches up to 283mm in off-road modes, with 500mm wheel articulation and 900mm wading depth—figures that surpass rivals and the prior generation. Aerodynamic tweaks and the aluminum-intensive monocoque body contribute to a kerb weight as low as 2223kg for lighter diesel variants, improving fuel thirst to around 7.2L/100km on the EU combined cycle.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

Step inside, and the cabin impresses with ‘modern premium’ finishes: supple leather, inlaid wood, metal accents, and clean Swedish-inspired lines infused with Land Rover ruggedness. Unlike the opulent excess of Range Rovers, the Discovery prioritizes functional luxury, making it instantly appealing for families and adventurers alike.

Space is generous across three rows. Front occupants enjoy limo-like room, the middle row offers adjustable, adult-friendly seating, and the third row accommodates taller passengers—up to 6ft 4ins comfortably, per engineering tests. Seven power-folding seats stow flat individually, revealing a vast cargo area with a fold-down rear shelf compensating for the single-piece tailgate. Utility shines with 85L fuel tank, 3500kg braked towing capacity, and clever storage solutions.

Engine Options and Performance

Powertrains cater to diverse needs. The supercharged 3.0L V6 gasoline delivers responsive acceleration, ideal for highways, while the 3.0L TD6 turbodiesel V6 provides 443 lb-ft torque for towing and efficiency. Entry-level 2.0L four-cylinder turbo-diesel suits lighter duties, benefiting most from the weight reduction for nimble handling. All pair with an 8-speed automatic and full-time 4WD.

On-road, air suspension delivers a cosseting ride: soft over bumps, composed in corners despite body roll. Steering is lighter and more direct than before, akin to Range Rover Sport, though a slight off-road-oriented dead zone persists at highway speeds. Road noise is minimal, wind hush at speed, though seats could use softer padding.

• TD6 Diesel: Torque-rich for overtakes, refined startup sans clatter.
• V6 Supercharged: Punchy power, excellent cruiser.
• 2.0L Turbo-Diesel: Lightest, best agility.

Off-Road Supremacy Retained

Skeptics feared luxury upgrades softened capabilities, but the Discovery excels beyond its forebear. Terrain Response 2 auto-detects surfaces, optimizing power, suspension, and traction. It conquers rocks, sand, steep inclines with less driver effort—more refined, intuitive. Class-leading specs ensure it tackles what predecessors could, plus more.

Edmunds praises its dual prowess: commuter comfort meets obstacle mastery without compromise. Car and Driver notes 11.1 inches clearance trades some on-road poise for trail dominance over sleeker rivals like BMW X5.

Technology and Features

Infotainment lags premium peers slightly, but off-road tech impresses: smartphone remote control, advanced driver aids. HSE trim balances value with options, nearing top-spec Lux without excess cost. Touchscreen integrates navigation, climate, and Terrain Response seamlessly.

Trims, Pricing, and Value

Mid-range HSE offers optimal features-to-price ratio, with diesel or gas choices. Weight savings boost economy over LR4. Long-term tests highlight reliability gains, quality interiors enduring heavy use. Consumer feedback lauds seven-adult comfort, power, off-road readiness.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Vast space, refined ride, top off-road tech, lighter chassis, versatile seating.
• Cons: Firm seats, infotainment not class-leading, steering slop on highway.

Competitor Comparison

FAQ

What makes the 2017 Discovery lighter? Aluminum monocoque platform reduces weight by up to 480kg.

Is it still great off-road? Yes, with improved Terrain Response 2 and superior specs.

How spacious is the interior? Exceptionally, fitting seven adults comfortably.

Which engine to choose? HSE with gasoline V6 for responsiveness; diesel for torque.

Any reliability concerns? Long-term tests show quality improvements.