2017 Land Rover Discovery: Premium SUV Excellence

The 2017 Land Rover Discovery marked a pivotal evolution in the large premium SUV category, earning accolades as a standout performer for its fusion of sophisticated on-road dynamics, rugged off-road credentials, and practical family-oriented design. This fifth-generation model replaced the LR4 with a lighter aluminum architecture, enhancing efficiency and agility while preserving the brand’s legendary capability.

Revolutionary Design and Build Innovation

The exterior of the 2017 Discovery adopted a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile compared to its blockier predecessor, featuring rounded lines inspired by the Range Rover lineup. This shift not only improved highway stability and reduced wind noise but also maintained essential off-road features like over 11 inches of ground clearance. The all-aluminum body shed nearly 1,000 pounds, making it significantly lighter and more fuel-efficient without compromising structural integrity.

Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with high-quality leather across multiple rows, intuitive controls, and innovative storage solutions such as a front center console cooler. Trim levels including SE, HSE, HSE Luxury, and the limited First Edition offered escalating levels of refinement, from 12-way adjustable seats to hands-free power tailgates. The asymmetrical tailgate of old gave way to a powered split design capable of supporting heavy loads, enhancing practicality.

Powertrain Options for Every Adventure

Powering the Discovery was a choice of robust engines tailored for diverse driving needs. The standard supercharged 3.0-liter V6 delivered 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in about 6.9 seconds, ideal for spirited on-road performance. For those prioritizing torque and efficiency, the available 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 provided 254 hp and a massive 443 lb-ft, outpacing rivals like the Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel in low-end pull.

All models paired these engines with an 8-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, ensuring seamless power delivery across varied terrains.

Off-Road Mastery Meets On-Road Refinement

Land Rover’s heritage shone through in the Discovery’s advanced all-terrain systems. Terrain Response 2 automatically adjusted settings for conditions like mud, sand, snow, or rock crawling, complemented by All-Terrain Progress Control for low-speed crawling. Air suspension could elevate the vehicle by up to 3 inches off-road, while features like Hill Descent Control and Gradient Release Control provided confidence in steep descents.

On pavement, the lightweight chassis transformed the SUV into a nimble cruiser, with precise steering and reduced body roll. Reviewers noted its Range Rover-like composure, quieter cabin, and stable high-speed handling, though a slight off-road bias introduced minor steering play at highway speeds. Ground clearance of 11.1 inches underscored its tall-SUV feel, distinguishing it from more car-like competitors such as the BMW X5.

Spacious and Versatile Interior Layout

Designed for families, the Discovery comfortably seated seven in three rows, with the third row accessible even for adults—rare in midsize luxury SUVs. Cargo capacity expanded from tight space behind the third row to 40 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 83 cubic feet with the second row down.

• Front seats: Infinitely adjustable armrests and excellent visibility for the driver.
• Second row: Spacious legroom and slide/recline functions for flexibility.
• Third row: Viable for adults on shorter trips, with easy access.
• Cargo innovations: Intelligent Seat Fold via app, powered tailgate supporting 600 pounds.

Technology integration included a 10.2-inch touchscreen, InControl Remote app for remote climate and seat adjustments, and dual-zone climate control as standard. Higher trims added panoramic sunroofs and premium audio systems.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2017 model introduced cutting-edge tech like the InControl system, allowing smartphone or smartwatch control of locks, climate, and even seat folding from afar. Rear parking sensors and a hands-free tailgate were baseline, with optional adaptive cruise and 360-degree cameras enhancing safety.

Reliability was rated 3.5/5 by RepairPal, ranking it mid-pack among luxury midsize SUVs, backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. Three recalls were noted, typical for a new redesign.

Competitive Landscape and Awards

In 2017, the Discovery clinched Large Premium SUV of the Year from Auto Express, outshining the Tesla Model X and Volvo XC90. It returned to the U.S. market after a hiatus, leveraging strong name recognition and sales. Against rivals, its diesel option and off-road tech gave it an edge over the Lexus GX 460, while on-road poise rivaled pricier Range Rovers.

Pricing started competitively for the segment, with the HSE Luxury tested around $82,800 fully loaded, offering value through versatility.

Driving Impressions from Experts

Reviewers praised its balance: “One of the best large family SUVs,” with modern luxury and capability. Edmunds highlighted the HSE Lux’s refinement, MotorTrend its efficiency gains, and Car and Driver its aluminum platform shared with Range Rovers. Kelley Blue Book called it a “ticket to adventure,” refined yet rugged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The 2017 Land Rover Discovery redefined expectations for premium SUVs, delivering a compelling package of luxury, space, and adventure-ready performance that continues to influence the segment.