Land Rover’s patented Terrain Response system was previewed on the recent Range Stormer concept car, and is designed to maximise driveability, comfort and traction.

The driver simply chooses one of five terrain settings via a rotary switch on the centre console: a general driving programme, plus one for slippery conditions (known as "grass/gravel/snow") and three special off-road modes (mud/ruts, sand, rock crawl). Terrain Response then automatically selects the most appropriate settings for the vehicle’s advanced electronic controls and traction aids – including ride height, engine torque response, hill descent control, electronic traction control and transmission settings.

Another innovation is the Integrated Body-frame structure.

The Discovery 3 also features adaptive headlights that swivel with the direction of travel to illuminate the road ahead.

Dynamic on-road performance

The Discovery 3's top-of-the-range engine is a specially developed 4.4-litre version of Jaguar’s acclaimed V8 petrol engine. Changes for Land Rover use include increased capacity (from 4.2 litres), more low-end torque, enhanced dust- and water-proofing, and revised breathing to enable the car to wade rivers as well as cruise highways.

The top-selling engine in Europe is likely to be Land Rover’s new, smooth and flexible 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel, a common rail unit that uses variable geometry turbocharging

The third engine in the line-up is a petrol 4.0-litre V6, a version of one of the world’s best-selling SUV powerplants now further developed for Land Rover use.

All three engines offer strong on-road performance, with full-time four-wheel drive. Both petrol derivatives are matched to a six-speed automatic ‘intelligent shift’ transmission, also available with the diesel though this is offered with a six-speed manual as standard.

On-road driving and refinement are enhanced by fully independent suspension all round, using air springs on most models. This is height adjustable, to assist with entry and exit, and to boost ground clearance to help off-road performance.

Outstanding versatility

Unique Land Rover design cues include its bold, geometric vertical and horizontal elements; its stepped roof (to boost headroom); its asymmetric rear tailgate (to reduce load height when the lower part of the tailgate is closed, and reduce ‘reach in’ distance when opened); the use of an air intake on only one side of the body (it’s all that was needed); and its large glazed areas.

The driver enjoys Land Rover’s traditional "command" seating position, while all the rear passengers get stadium seating — progressively higher than the seats in front, offering a clearer view.

The all-new Discovery 3 replaces Land Rover’s Discovery. The new vehicle goes on sale later this year, depending on market.

AFP