It has been 35 years since the first Land Rover Discovery saw the light of day, kickstarting a reputation for versatility and capability in the full-size seven-seat SUV market. Now, more than three decades since this icon made its world debut the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1989, a powerful and efficient new D350 engine is available in the Discovery for the first time. A new limited 35th Anniversary Edition has also been introduced to celebrate the milestone.
Since its launch in the late 80s, Discovery has set the standard for seven-seat family SUVs, combining innovation with space and practicality. Its family-friendly stepped roofline has become a Discovery hallmark, creating a distinctive silhouette.
Safety and capability have always been at the heart of Discovery. In 1998, it introduced industry-first Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE) technology, using electronically controlled anti-roll bars to reduce body roll. A year later, it became the first SUV to introduce twin airbags for front seat passengers, and JLR’s Terrain Response technology made its pioneering debut on Discovery in 2004.
Its reputation as an SUV that is both highly versatile and capable is well established. It has proven itself in operations with the Austrian Red Cross – which took delivery of a specially adapted Discovery Emergency Response Vehicle in 2018 to support search and rescue activities – and excels as a towing vehicle. Its effortless capability in this regard was showcased when a production specification model pulled a 110-tonne road train for 16km in the Australian Outback in 2017.
Powerful efficiency
The new Discovery D350 features the 3.0-litre Ingenium six-cylinder diesel with 257kW – a 37kW increase over the outgoing D300. Torque is also increased to 700Nm, an uplift of 50Nm, helping the D350 accelerate from 0-100km in 6.3 seconds, six-tenths of a second faster than the previous D300.
Available across the Discovery range, the D350 joins the existing P360 petrol model, giving clients a choice of advanced and efficient propulsion systems.
Celebratory edition
The exclusive new 35th Anniversary Edition celebrates Discovery’s exceptional 35 years of adventure and ingenuity. It is identified by bespoke ‘XXXV’ badging and treadplates that highlight the incredible journey Discovery has enjoyed since its launch.
The special edition model is inspired by the Metropolitan Edition and features Bright Atlas detailing for the grille and Discovery lettering. This is complemented by Hakuba Silver lower bumper inserts, 22-inch diamond turned alloy wheels with gloss grey detailing, black brake callipers, privacy glass and a sliding panoramic roof.
Convenience and comfort features inside include a Head-up Display and heated steering wheel, wireless device charging, a front cooler compartment and four-zone climate control. The cabin is enhanced with titanium mesh trim detailing, as well as light oyster and ebony upholstery with extended leather colourways.
Available in strictly limited numbers, this celebratory addition joins the S, Dynamic SE, Dynamic HSE, and Metropolitan Edition in the line-up. Orders are now open in South Africa, with prices starting from R1 808 400.
Specification enhancements
The Discovery’s generous specification has been enhanced across the line-up by upgrades that increase comfort and convenience. All S, Dynamic SE, Dynamic HSE, and Metropolitan Edition models now feature powere adjustable seats with driver memory function, plus an electrically adjustable steering column as standard.
Boosting capability and versatility are a 3 500kg towing capacity and Advanced Tow Assist technology, which takes the stress out of difficult reversing manoeuvres. Further boosting the package is All Terrain Progress Control, which enables drivers to set and maintain a steady speed in challenging conditions. It is available alongside Terrain Response 2, which offers driving modes that optimise a range of vehicle settings to suite different ground conditions. A maximum wading depth of 900mm provides added confidence.
Coupled with Land Rover’s comprehensive range of accessories – which includes a ‘For Dogs’ pack designed to improve comfort for canine companions and a ‘Biking Adventures’ pack perfectly suited for two-wheeled excursions – it is easy to see why over the past 35 years Discovery has earned its reputation as the ultimate go-anywhere family SUV.
