2003 Land Rover Discovery: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

More power and revised front styling are among 2003 alterations to Land Rover's oldest SUV. In price and dimensions, Discovery falls between Land Rover's Freelander and Range Rover. It comes in S, SE, and top-line HSE models. An available 3rd-row seat increases passenger capacity from five to seven, adding a "7" suffix to the badge. SE and HSE have wood and leather interior trim and dual sunroofs. All use a 217-hp 4.6-liter V8, which replaces a 188-hp 4.0 V8 and adds 50 lb-ft of torque. Carried over as standard are a 4-speed automatic transmission, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and all-wheel drive with low-range gearing and traction control. Included in the optional Suspension Package is Land Rover's Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE), which uses hydraulic suspension levers to reduce body lean in turns. It also includes rear self-leveling suspension. The S model has 16 inch alloy wheels, the others have 18s. The grille, headlamps, and front bumper are restyled for '03, and instrument graphics are revised. A rear-obstacle-detection system is new and exclusive to the HSE. A navigation system is standard on the HSE and optional on the SE. Rear DVD entertainment also is available. Land Rover is owned by Ford.

COMPETITION

Luxury SUVs vary in size and type, including former members of both the Full-size and Midsize SUV classes, along with a few all-new models. All offer higher standards of workmanship, comfort, refinement, and pricing than other SUVs.

Our Best Buys are Acura MDX and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both are extremely capable on-road and offer roomy interiors that feature quality workmanship and materials. MDX gets slightly better fuel economy and is more reasonably priced. Land Cruiser offers a V8 engine, rugged body-on-frame chassis, and true off-road ability.

Though rugged and trucky, the Recommended Mercedes-Benz M-Class is spacious, offers a variety of model and engine choices, and numerous safety features. If you don't venture too far off-road, take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300. Recommended based on price, refinement, and luxury appointments.