1999-2004 Land Rover Discovery: Road Test

Without Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE), this tall, relatively narrow sport-utility vehicle suffers copious body lean in tight turns. With ACE, it corners with fine control and balance. Too bad the ACE technology has only been available on top-line models. Although the Discovery's ride gets choppy on closely spaced bumps, most imperfections are soaked up without jarring. Braking is sure and acceleration is acceptable for this premium-SUV class, though fuel economy is likely to be painful. A test model with the 4.0-liter engine accelerated to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds, but averaged only 12.5 mpg using the required premium fuel. Test SE did 0-60 mph in 9.1 sec, a useful improvement over the 4.0-liter version's 10.2. The added torque provides a needed boost in midrange passing response, too. Wind, engine, and axle noise are intrusive. The optional 3rd-row seat feels cramped, but overall, both people and package space are good. A tall step-in and narrow doorways make entry/exit tough, even for an SUV--especially into the rear compartment. Workmanship is on the patchy side, compared to the Discovery's main competitors. Quality, in fact, has been a longtime concern with respect to products from the British Land Rover company. One test Discovery model, for instance, suffered numerous squeaks and rattles.

Value for the Money
The Discovery's optional 7-passenger capacity is a bonus. Regardless, the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Lexus RX 300 offer better performance, handling, road manners, refinement, and quality--without the Discovery's foolish eccentricities. Basically, it's an old soldier that sells mainly due to its off-road prowess and the toney Land Rover name. In the less-trucky SUV group, the nicely polished (if only 5-passenger) Lexus RX 300 ranks as a top alternative.