Latest Cars

Land Rover Discovery Sport Refreshed For 2020

Published

5 years ago

October 24, 2019

We all associate the word ‘Sport’ with a high-performance car or, something with racy looks. In this case, there are a few notable exceptions. The Land Rover Discovery Sport is a prime example, offering those who crave a full-sized Discovery a more compact and affordable alternative.
Peer beneath the skin and you’ll find the Discovery Sport actually has more in common with the Range Rover Evoque than Discovery. However, where the Evoque focuses on catwalk styling, the Discovery Sport has boxier lines to create a more spacious interior.

Engines And Transmission

Every Discovery Sport is powered by a turbocharged a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 246hp or 286hp depending on the model. However, the more powerful engine utilizes a 48-volt hybrid system that aims to improve fuel economy and aid acceleration. Of course, standard all-wheel-drive helps the Sport conquer bumpy terrain and all of the seasons—along with a host of optional trail-rated equipment. The Discovery Sport can even wade into as much as 23.6 inches of water (for those who dare) and tow up to 4409 pounds. A gear lever replaces the rotary shifter for the 9-speed automatic.

At speeds below 17km/h, the engine will shut off when the driver applies the brakes. This will, in turn, redeploy the stored energy to assist the engine under acceleration to reduce fuel consumption. The new engine and transmissions are refined, quiet and efficient to drive, ensuring that whether on the school run, a drive into the country or heading to the Alps, they offer notable efficiency savings.

The new Discovery Sport is available in S, SE and HSE trim, in addition to the R-Dynamic variant, which features Satin Dark Grey alloy wheels, unique front and rear bumpers and Shadow Atlas script on the bonnet and tailgate.

Interior And Tech

The interior of the Discovery Sport is characterised by plenty of plush, dense-feeling materials, well-damped rotary heating controls and classy touches, including brushed-metal trim. The broad driver’s seat is extremely comfortable. Although you do have to adjust it manually if you opt for the entry-level trim. The posher trims have fully electric adjustment for everything bar the headrest.

Interestingly, there are almost no plastics on the inside of this Discovery Sport that you would regularly need to touch. A deliberate tactic from the chief interior designer, Martin Buffery, who was also responsible for the Range Rover Velar and the Evoque.

One of the biggest attributes of the Discovery Sport has always been its 7-seater capability. The 5+2 seating arrangement has allowed for a level of practicality that is hard to match in this segment. The seating configuration can be varied in 24 unique ways. This allows for a hugely practical solution to interior space and passenger requirements.

For the 2020 models, the 7-seat option has become standard. There have been extensive revisions to the second and third-row with better ventilation and more USB power supplies.

Summary

Overall, the new 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport is a huge improvement over its predecessor. The improvements to its interior are substantial and bring the model into the modern world. It now competes on an equal footing with its German rivals. The ability to carry seven cannot be discounted, nor can its handsome looks and refinement. It should definitely be on the consideration set of any buyer looking for a smart, capable and highly versatile SUV.