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Land Rover Discovery 4 3.0 TDV6 HSE (A) Review
03 Aug 2011|31,172 views
Being a minute country, Singapore has limited space for off-road purists to mud-plug and that has led to a number of car manufacturers pushing their styling and creative abilities to the limit. Of late, SUVs that are coming to our shores no longer have the boxy shapes and obnoxious fascia associated to its genre.
Known for their wallowy characteristic on the road, 'practicality' and 'space' are the two most frequently used words when it comes to these chunky-sized rides. It's the selling point for these misunderstood cars. In the past, when technology wasn't as advanced, there weren't crazy options to lower the car's suspension nor was there a choice to toggle between which terrains suited the car best. But as people developed new skills and knowledge, cars of different types evolved and progressed.
One such car is the Land Rover Discovery 4.
The boxy-looking car has upgraded its off-road system and its improved handling will no doubt produce benefits regardless if it's off or on-road, bringing the best of both worlds to Land Rover's fans.
Exterior
Land Rover certainly made a good choice of losing some of the plastic-like looking face of Disco 3 without losing a tasteful impression. The signature Range Rover hexagonal twin-bar front grille and elaborated LED headlights make you stare at it just a little longer to make sure you don't mistake it for a Rangie. We reckon the Discovery probably gets the best deal out of that particular move, because it really does look like the Range Rover Sport now.
Known for their wallowy characteristic on the road, 'practicality' and 'space' are the two most frequently used words when it comes to these chunky-sized rides. It's the selling point for these misunderstood cars. In the past, when technology wasn't as advanced, there weren't crazy options to lower the car's suspension nor was there a choice to toggle between which terrains suited the car best. But as people developed new skills and knowledge, cars of different types evolved and progressed.
One such car is the Land Rover Discovery 4.
The boxy-looking car has upgraded its off-road system and its improved handling will no doubt produce benefits regardless if it's off or on-road, bringing the best of both worlds to Land Rover's fans.
Exterior
Land Rover certainly made a good choice of losing some of the plastic-like looking face of Disco 3 without losing a tasteful impression. The signature Range Rover hexagonal twin-bar front grille and elaborated LED headlights make you stare at it just a little longer to make sure you don't mistake it for a Rangie. We reckon the Discovery probably gets the best deal out of that particular move, because it really does look like the Range Rover Sport now.
 |
Despite the Discovery 4 being the sort of car casual observers will mingle with rugged rednecks, it's very comforting to look at. It is no longer the kid who requires the attention. The Disco has matured well and has that little bit of snobbish look, just enough for people to look and whisper in envy behind its back. The changes on its shell are, to a certain extent, radical compared to the previous generation but yet it hasn't detracted from the minimalist lines of a typical 4x4 roader.
From the side, it looks a tad different. The roof of the car is now levelled with the rear third quarter blending in as a whole piece of metal sheet. It's nicer, of course, resulting in a smoother and simpler vehicle. But it remains to be a love it or hate it car. We reckon it's no bad thing, given the fact that not many cars have this kind of ability to create such mixed feelings within the lesser-involved. And it's precisely this element of whistling politics that has gotten the marque countless fans.
The boxy rear end is still there but has classier and jazzier tail lights - something that has sprung on almost every car in the recent years. Still, it looks the part of an upgraded version of the Disco 3 and is certainly friendlier from all angles. It seems that the disco box set has been tweaked a tad, softening all the brutal squarish portions to ensure the elegant pose of the car.
 |
Interior
But the real improvements are on the inside where it really counts. Step inside and the subtle upmarket appearance with softer and quality materials used will make you mistake this car for a Range Rover. The Terrain Response control also takes pride in front of the gear lever, offering up to five different settings for the different kinds of terrain the Disco 4 is built to rumble over. It's neither too old-fashioned nor too "in" with the array of buttons (with weird-looking signs) and technologies you never knew existed. It's right smack in the middle without being too distracting and it's something drivers can really appreciate.
The other feature drivers can be grateful for is the Harman Kardon speakers. All you have to do is plug in your MP3 player and you're ready to roll. It releases the stress off your shoulders, especially when you're cruising down the highways on a sunny afternoon with Scottish punk-rock band, Mogwai, coming out from the quality speakers. Such attention to trivial details like speakers just reminds you that you're behind the wheel of something more than just a car.
The seats are leather wrapped and are very supportive. They tempt you to fill up all seven seats and take a drive down the North-South Highway because they allow passengers, including those seated on seats six and seven, to bear extended driving time without feeling tired or having the need to visit the masseuse.
But the real improvements are on the inside where it really counts. Step inside and the subtle upmarket appearance with softer and quality materials used will make you mistake this car for a Range Rover. The Terrain Response control also takes pride in front of the gear lever, offering up to five different settings for the different kinds of terrain the Disco 4 is built to rumble over. It's neither too old-fashioned nor too "in" with the array of buttons (with weird-looking signs) and technologies you never knew existed. It's right smack in the middle without being too distracting and it's something drivers can really appreciate.
The other feature drivers can be grateful for is the Harman Kardon speakers. All you have to do is plug in your MP3 player and you're ready to roll. It releases the stress off your shoulders, especially when you're cruising down the highways on a sunny afternoon with Scottish punk-rock band, Mogwai, coming out from the quality speakers. Such attention to trivial details like speakers just reminds you that you're behind the wheel of something more than just a car.
The seats are leather wrapped and are very supportive. They tempt you to fill up all seven seats and take a drive down the North-South Highway because they allow passengers, including those seated on seats six and seven, to bear extended driving time without feeling tired or having the need to visit the masseuse.
We reckon it's also the ample space that contributes to the high levels of comfort. With a wheelbase of 2,885mm and a height of 1,887mm, the sixth and seventh passenger snugly fits in with sufficient head and legroom, rivalling even some of the leading MPVs in the market. But like most seven-seaters, boot space is limited with all seats in place while in the five-seater guise, the luggage space increases by a couple of notches to 1,260 litres.
There is one problem though. It's a tad troublesome for passengers at the third row to ingress and egress. Unlike most seven-seaters, raising and lowering the second row seats requires a two-step folding process and it's physically impossible to do it with one hand, which means it can be a bit of a nuisance when you got your hands full and have to fold the seats up and down for your kids.
Drivers can probably see it both ways. You either get use to the folding over time or leave the car as a five-seater unless really necessary to get the third row seats in place. We feel the latter is a better choice.
There is one problem though. It's a tad troublesome for passengers at the third row to ingress and egress. Unlike most seven-seaters, raising and lowering the second row seats requires a two-step folding process and it's physically impossible to do it with one hand, which means it can be a bit of a nuisance when you got your hands full and have to fold the seats up and down for your kids.
Drivers can probably see it both ways. You either get use to the folding over time or leave the car as a five-seater unless really necessary to get the third row seats in place. We feel the latter is a better choice.
 |
The Drive
The Discovery 4's 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine develops a vigorous 241bhp, which gives the car ample performance on both open highways as well as around town. The diesel engine, on the other hand, gives the car that weighs almost 2.6 tonnes an enormous figure of 600Nm of torque, allowing the sizeable car to clear the century sprint in a stealthy 9.6 seconds (reasonable for its weight).
Its industrial-sounding engine note that is evident at idling disappears once the doors are shut. And it gives way to a slightly edgy and sporty burble, thanks to its V6, when extended. Going past the legal speed limit isn't a tough job in the Disco but once you are, wind noise intrudes but it's never distracting.
Although it doesn't defy the laws of physics quite as well as the BMW X5, the boxy Disco is still relatively composed around bends, giving in to only body roll and not clumsy screeches. Still, straight roads are where the car excels. The car's air sprung suspension soaks up all manner of poor road surfaces, carrying you and your passengers along in comfort and fine style with the faintest sound barely noticeable.
The Discovery 4's 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine develops a vigorous 241bhp, which gives the car ample performance on both open highways as well as around town. The diesel engine, on the other hand, gives the car that weighs almost 2.6 tonnes an enormous figure of 600Nm of torque, allowing the sizeable car to clear the century sprint in a stealthy 9.6 seconds (reasonable for its weight).
Its industrial-sounding engine note that is evident at idling disappears once the doors are shut. And it gives way to a slightly edgy and sporty burble, thanks to its V6, when extended. Going past the legal speed limit isn't a tough job in the Disco but once you are, wind noise intrudes but it's never distracting.
Although it doesn't defy the laws of physics quite as well as the BMW X5, the boxy Disco is still relatively composed around bends, giving in to only body roll and not clumsy screeches. Still, straight roads are where the car excels. The car's air sprung suspension soaks up all manner of poor road surfaces, carrying you and your passengers along in comfort and fine style with the faintest sound barely noticeable.
Around town, you may imagine the huge car to be a burden but it proved otherwise. With the accurate multi-functional steering wheel at work and high seating position, the significant car manoeuvres like a compact crossover while visibility is clear all-round, restraining any problems for tighter constraints.
The car is genuinely comfortable. Even when you're off-road, the different settings make it a breeze to handle in different terrains. Drivers get the choice of toggling between Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, Mud and Ruts as well as Rock Crawl. While it may sound like a diffuse-a-bomb hassle, all you have to do is select the appropriate setting and the car practically does the rest for you.
Conclusion
While it may not carry the higher-end Range Rover badging, the Land Rover Discovery 4 excels in blending workhorse ability, graciousness and a flexible cabin.
For drivers looking for a seven-seater vehicle that can stand the test of time well, it's time to put on your party outfit and Disco.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The car is genuinely comfortable. Even when you're off-road, the different settings make it a breeze to handle in different terrains. Drivers get the choice of toggling between Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, Mud and Ruts as well as Rock Crawl. While it may sound like a diffuse-a-bomb hassle, all you have to do is select the appropriate setting and the car practically does the rest for you.
Conclusion
While it may not carry the higher-end Range Rover badging, the Land Rover Discovery 4 excels in blending workhorse ability, graciousness and a flexible cabin.
For drivers looking for a seven-seater vehicle that can stand the test of time well, it's time to put on your party outfit and Disco.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Being a minute country, Singapore has limited space for off-road purists to mud-plug and that has led to a number of car manufacturers pushing their styling and creative abilities to the limit. Of late, SUVs that are coming to our shores no longer have the boxy shapes and obnoxious fascia associated to its genre.
Known for their wallowy characteristic on the road, 'practicality' and 'space' are the two most frequently used words when it comes to these chunky-sized rides. It's the selling point for these misunderstood cars. In the past, when technology wasn't as advanced, there weren't crazy options to lower the car's suspension nor was there a choice to toggle between which terrains suited the car best. But as people developed new skills and knowledge, cars of different types evolved and progressed.
One such car is the Land Rover Discovery 4.
The boxy-looking car has upgraded its off-road system and its improved handling will no doubt produce benefits regardless if it's off or on-road, bringing the best of both worlds to Land Rover's fans.
Exterior
Land Rover certainly made a good choice of losing some of the plastic-like looking face of Disco 3 without losing a tasteful impression. The signature Range Rover hexagonal twin-bar front grille and elaborated LED headlights make you stare at it just a little longer to make sure you don't mistake it for a Rangie. We reckon the Discovery probably gets the best deal out of that particular move, because it really does look like the Range Rover Sport now.
Known for their wallowy characteristic on the road, 'practicality' and 'space' are the two most frequently used words when it comes to these chunky-sized rides. It's the selling point for these misunderstood cars. In the past, when technology wasn't as advanced, there weren't crazy options to lower the car's suspension nor was there a choice to toggle between which terrains suited the car best. But as people developed new skills and knowledge, cars of different types evolved and progressed.
One such car is the Land Rover Discovery 4.
The boxy-looking car has upgraded its off-road system and its improved handling will no doubt produce benefits regardless if it's off or on-road, bringing the best of both worlds to Land Rover's fans.
Exterior
Land Rover certainly made a good choice of losing some of the plastic-like looking face of Disco 3 without losing a tasteful impression. The signature Range Rover hexagonal twin-bar front grille and elaborated LED headlights make you stare at it just a little longer to make sure you don't mistake it for a Rangie. We reckon the Discovery probably gets the best deal out of that particular move, because it really does look like the Range Rover Sport now.
|
Despite the Discovery 4 being the sort of car casual observers will mingle with rugged rednecks, it's very comforting to look at. It is no longer the kid who requires the attention. The Disco has matured well and has that little bit of snobbish look, just enough for people to look and whisper in envy behind its back. The changes on its shell are, to a certain extent, radical compared to the previous generation but yet it hasn't detracted from the minimalist lines of a typical 4x4 roader.
From the side, it looks a tad different. The roof of the car is now levelled with the rear third quarter blending in as a whole piece of metal sheet. It's nicer, of course, resulting in a smoother and simpler vehicle. But it remains to be a love it or hate it car. We reckon it's no bad thing, given the fact that not many cars have this kind of ability to create such mixed feelings within the lesser-involved. And it's precisely this element of whistling politics that has gotten the marque countless fans.
The boxy rear end is still there but has classier and jazzier tail lights - something that has sprung on almost every car in the recent years. Still, it looks the part of an upgraded version of the Disco 3 and is certainly friendlier from all angles. It seems that the disco box set has been tweaked a tad, softening all the brutal squarish portions to ensure the elegant pose of the car.
|
Interior
But the real improvements are on the inside where it really counts. Step inside and the subtle upmarket appearance with softer and quality materials used will make you mistake this car for a Range Rover. The Terrain Response control also takes pride in front of the gear lever, offering up to five different settings for the different kinds of terrain the Disco 4 is built to rumble over. It's neither too old-fashioned nor too "in" with the array of buttons (with weird-looking signs) and technologies you never knew existed. It's right smack in the middle without being too distracting and it's something drivers can really appreciate.
The other feature drivers can be grateful for is the Harman Kardon speakers. All you have to do is plug in your MP3 player and you're ready to roll. It releases the stress off your shoulders, especially when you're cruising down the highways on a sunny afternoon with Scottish punk-rock band, Mogwai, coming out from the quality speakers. Such attention to trivial details like speakers just reminds you that you're behind the wheel of something more than just a car.
The seats are leather wrapped and are very supportive. They tempt you to fill up all seven seats and take a drive down the North-South Highway because they allow passengers, including those seated on seats six and seven, to bear extended driving time without feeling tired or having the need to visit the masseuse.
But the real improvements are on the inside where it really counts. Step inside and the subtle upmarket appearance with softer and quality materials used will make you mistake this car for a Range Rover. The Terrain Response control also takes pride in front of the gear lever, offering up to five different settings for the different kinds of terrain the Disco 4 is built to rumble over. It's neither too old-fashioned nor too "in" with the array of buttons (with weird-looking signs) and technologies you never knew existed. It's right smack in the middle without being too distracting and it's something drivers can really appreciate.
The other feature drivers can be grateful for is the Harman Kardon speakers. All you have to do is plug in your MP3 player and you're ready to roll. It releases the stress off your shoulders, especially when you're cruising down the highways on a sunny afternoon with Scottish punk-rock band, Mogwai, coming out from the quality speakers. Such attention to trivial details like speakers just reminds you that you're behind the wheel of something more than just a car.
The seats are leather wrapped and are very supportive. They tempt you to fill up all seven seats and take a drive down the North-South Highway because they allow passengers, including those seated on seats six and seven, to bear extended driving time without feeling tired or having the need to visit the masseuse.
We reckon it's also the ample space that contributes to the high levels of comfort. With a wheelbase of 2,885mm and a height of 1,887mm, the sixth and seventh passenger snugly fits in with sufficient head and legroom, rivalling even some of the leading MPVs in the market. But like most seven-seaters, boot space is limited with all seats in place while in the five-seater guise, the luggage space increases by a couple of notches to 1,260 litres.
There is one problem though. It's a tad troublesome for passengers at the third row to ingress and egress. Unlike most seven-seaters, raising and lowering the second row seats requires a two-step folding process and it's physically impossible to do it with one hand, which means it can be a bit of a nuisance when you got your hands full and have to fold the seats up and down for your kids.
Drivers can probably see it both ways. You either get use to the folding over time or leave the car as a five-seater unless really necessary to get the third row seats in place. We feel the latter is a better choice.
There is one problem though. It's a tad troublesome for passengers at the third row to ingress and egress. Unlike most seven-seaters, raising and lowering the second row seats requires a two-step folding process and it's physically impossible to do it with one hand, which means it can be a bit of a nuisance when you got your hands full and have to fold the seats up and down for your kids.
Drivers can probably see it both ways. You either get use to the folding over time or leave the car as a five-seater unless really necessary to get the third row seats in place. We feel the latter is a better choice.
|
The Drive
The Discovery 4's 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine develops a vigorous 241bhp, which gives the car ample performance on both open highways as well as around town. The diesel engine, on the other hand, gives the car that weighs almost 2.6 tonnes an enormous figure of 600Nm of torque, allowing the sizeable car to clear the century sprint in a stealthy 9.6 seconds (reasonable for its weight).
Its industrial-sounding engine note that is evident at idling disappears once the doors are shut. And it gives way to a slightly edgy and sporty burble, thanks to its V6, when extended. Going past the legal speed limit isn't a tough job in the Disco but once you are, wind noise intrudes but it's never distracting.
Although it doesn't defy the laws of physics quite as well as the BMW X5, the boxy Disco is still relatively composed around bends, giving in to only body roll and not clumsy screeches. Still, straight roads are where the car excels. The car's air sprung suspension soaks up all manner of poor road surfaces, carrying you and your passengers along in comfort and fine style with the faintest sound barely noticeable.
The Discovery 4's 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine develops a vigorous 241bhp, which gives the car ample performance on both open highways as well as around town. The diesel engine, on the other hand, gives the car that weighs almost 2.6 tonnes an enormous figure of 600Nm of torque, allowing the sizeable car to clear the century sprint in a stealthy 9.6 seconds (reasonable for its weight).
Its industrial-sounding engine note that is evident at idling disappears once the doors are shut. And it gives way to a slightly edgy and sporty burble, thanks to its V6, when extended. Going past the legal speed limit isn't a tough job in the Disco but once you are, wind noise intrudes but it's never distracting.
Although it doesn't defy the laws of physics quite as well as the BMW X5, the boxy Disco is still relatively composed around bends, giving in to only body roll and not clumsy screeches. Still, straight roads are where the car excels. The car's air sprung suspension soaks up all manner of poor road surfaces, carrying you and your passengers along in comfort and fine style with the faintest sound barely noticeable.
Around town, you may imagine the huge car to be a burden but it proved otherwise. With the accurate multi-functional steering wheel at work and high seating position, the significant car manoeuvres like a compact crossover while visibility is clear all-round, restraining any problems for tighter constraints.
The car is genuinely comfortable. Even when you're off-road, the different settings make it a breeze to handle in different terrains. Drivers get the choice of toggling between Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, Mud and Ruts as well as Rock Crawl. While it may sound like a diffuse-a-bomb hassle, all you have to do is select the appropriate setting and the car practically does the rest for you.
Conclusion
While it may not carry the higher-end Range Rover badging, the Land Rover Discovery 4 excels in blending workhorse ability, graciousness and a flexible cabin.
For drivers looking for a seven-seater vehicle that can stand the test of time well, it's time to put on your party outfit and Disco.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The car is genuinely comfortable. Even when you're off-road, the different settings make it a breeze to handle in different terrains. Drivers get the choice of toggling between Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, Mud and Ruts as well as Rock Crawl. While it may sound like a diffuse-a-bomb hassle, all you have to do is select the appropriate setting and the car practically does the rest for you.
Conclusion
While it may not carry the higher-end Range Rover badging, the Land Rover Discovery 4 excels in blending workhorse ability, graciousness and a flexible cabin.
For drivers looking for a seven-seater vehicle that can stand the test of time well, it's time to put on your party outfit and Disco.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Julian Kho
Car Information
Land Rover Discovery 4 Diesel 3.0 TDV6 HSE 7-Seater (A)
CAT B|Diesel|10.75km/L
Horsepower
190kW (255 bhp)
Torque
600 Nm
Acceleration
9.6sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Land Rover Discovery 4 Diesel
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