Overview & Reviews

Land Rover SUVs are the first choice of England's royals when the need arises for a vehicle gutsy enough to tackle rocks and mud. It's no wonder; in addition to their go-anywhere bravado, Land Rovers offer a uniquely British brand of elegance that feels supremely upper-crust. The Land Rover Discovery, offered in Europe a few years before coming to North America, was created to serve as a bridge between the manufacturer's utilitarian Defender and prestigious Range Rover models.

Unlike today's family-friendly crossovers, the Land Rover Discovery was an old-school luxury SUV that was at its best when pitted against treacherous ravines and vertiginous mountain paths. On-road performance clearly wasn't the primary focus, though on later models, Land Rover made more of an effort to strike a balance between trail-busting capacity and boulevard comfort.

In certain aspects concerning versatility, interior ergonomics and safety, the Land Rover lagged behind its peers. Cargo space was limited, and side airbags and stability control weren't available. Then there was the issue of reliability. Land Rovers of years gone by had a notoriously intimate relationship with repair shops, and the Discovery was no exception. More recent models, though, showed some improvement in this area.

Legendary off-road capabilities and a high level of luxury are the Discovery Series II's best points. But in our opinion, both are overshadowed by the vehicle's faults. Most buyers will probably be better served by competing Japanese or domestic luxury SUVs.

Most recent Land Rover Discovery

The Land Rover Discovery was a two-generation vehicle, and its most recent generation was built from 1999 until the SUV's demise in 2004. (The Land Rover LR3 took its place in the lineup.) Between model years 2000 and 2002, the Discovery was known as the Discovery Series II.

This generation saw a dizzying flurry of trim changes. In 1999, the Discovery was available in two versions: the outgoing generation called the SD and the new Series II. In 2000, the old one was dropped. Model-year 2001 saw another revision; the Discovery Series II could be had in SD, LE and SE models. The LE trim level was dropped in 2002. In 2003, the SUV once again became known simply as the Discovery, and from that point on it was available in base S, SE and top-of-the-line HSE trim levels.

Base-model Discovery models from this generation weren't light on luxury features, offering standard amenities like a CD player, power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone climate control. The nimble Land Rover was also ready to roam the great outdoors, thanks to permanent four-wheel drive, plenty of ground clearance and Hill Descent Control. Active Cornering Enhancement, a hydraulic suspension system that reduces vehicle body lean during cornering, was available, as were a self-leveling rear suspension and third-row seats.

Initially, two 4.0-liter V8s were available, one good for 182 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque, and the other for 188 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. In 2000, the less-muscular V8 was dropped from the lineup. Model-year 2003 saw the introduction of a more potent 4.6-liter V8 good for 217 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. This engine was used to power all Discoverys until the model's retirement. This Land Rover wasn't known for stellar fuel economy. Discoverys powered by the 4.6-liter got a paltry 12 mpg in the city and 16 in highway travel.

Engine changes weren't the only ones experienced by the Land Rover Discovery during these five years. In 2000, the SUV benefited from minor interior upgrades. In 2002, new alloys were added, along with a standard Harman Kardon sound system. The Discovery got revised styling and interior treatments for 2003, and improvements were also made to its steering, brakes and suspension. By 2004, the options list had grown to include a navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system and rear parking sensors.

Top-notch interior materials were the order of the day in the Discovery's cabin. There was ample head- and legroom, but the SUV's narrow proportions resulted in scarce shoulder- and hiproom. Additionally, this Land Rover's cramped doorways and tall stance made entry and exit somewhat of a challenge.

In editorial reviews, the Land Rover Discovery scored high marks for its off-road performance. On pavement, it was plagued by sluggish steering and an overly harsh ride. Ride quality saw some improvement after 2003's refresh, so opt for a 2003 or 2004 model to get a Discovery offering the most competence in this area. Finding a well-maintained and -documented model is probably wise given the Disco's less-than-exemplary reputation for reliability and durability.

Past Land Rover Discoverys

The Land Rover Discovery's first generation lasted from 1994-'99. Standard features included full power accessories, keyless entry and cruise control. A third-row seat and, eventually, a CD player were offered as options. Early Discoverys got their juice from a 3.9-liter V8 good for 182 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. This engine was replaced by a 4.0-liter V8 in 1996, offering slightly more torque (233 lb-ft) and improved fuel economy. In 1997, the Discovery's interior was upgraded to include burled walnut trim.

Even more so than later models, Discoverys from this generation were prone to reliability issues; on-road ride quality was also quite unforgiving. Given these factors, we'd recommend that those in the used market place their money with one of the SUV's more amenable Japanese competitors. If you're determined to get a first-gen Discovery, opt for the 1996 and '97 versions, with their more frugal engines.

User Reviews:

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  Best SUV Ive owned - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By chazley - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased a 2003 Discovery SE. I have owned 3 Nissan Pathfinders, 1 Grand Cherokee, 1 Cherokee sport, 1 Ford Expedition and 1 Toyota 4 runner. The 2003 Discovery SE is in a class by it self! I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Best SUV ever Owned - 2004 Land Rover Discovery
  By Love My Rover - November 21 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Land Rover, and I love it. Amazing build quality compared even to Lexus. Only problem was a squeaky seat that dealer repaired. Navigation system is great. Air ride is great. Disagree with Edmunds snob appeal opinion, when compared to H2/Tahoe/Denali comparably equiped the Disco is a better buy with better resale and by far better dealer service. Dealer provides free loaner and free pickup/delivery for service (at over 90 mi each way .. AWESOME!) Mileage is same as Tahoe Ive driven and far better than an Escalade I drove. Id buy another, but doubt if this one will wear out soon.

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  Surprisingly good! - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By capitollr - November 7 - 10:33 pm

  Unique design looks better than most SUVs today! Head-turning, good looks complemented by elegant, quality interior. Unbeatable combination of off-road prowess and every day practicality.

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  WHAT AN INCREDIBLE CAR!!!!!` - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By Kelsie - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I am so very pleased I bought the Discovery! It is a pleasure to drive and I feel I can go anywhere. It has a beautifully destinct and spacious design. My Discovery has comfortable seats and I live for the TWO sunroofs! It is a dream to drive! It stands alone amongst its "competition".

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  The best there is to offer - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By gregger - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle for all occations.

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  Quirky but beautifyl - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By henry_l - August 9 - 10:40 am

  Quite possibly one of the best looking vehicles out there. The 2003 redesign really helped in many areas, and mine has run flawlessly. Both the exterior and the interior holds up well.

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  An off-roading machine - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By Chris Thomas - July 6 - 2:00 am

  My land rover discovery has been everyithing i have expected it to be. It is truly a fun car to own and drive. It is not only great off road, but its road performance is excellent.

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  Bring it back! - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By weinsteinb - June 25 - 11:26 pm

  This is by far one of the best looking trucks ever made. The ladies love its sexy looks and the interior! Fantastic sound system!

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  one of the kind - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By cate - May 25 - 2:00 am

  safe that is how you feel inside this car.yes it is not the best for gas mileage but who care.being safe has no price.off road capability are the best and all the benefit of that gives you the best ride on snow , rain ect...

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  absoloutely wonderful - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By loooooove it - January 12 - 3:46 am

  After doing much research on which vehicle I should get for my 16 year old I finally decided on a landrover discovery. I found one at a wonderful price and its still running strong after 120,000 miles. Regardless of what the other reviews say it is a very reliable vehicle... Those that have repairs all the time just dont know how to take care of a vehicle. My son loves the double sunroofs and the ability to haul his friends around town. This is a wonderful vehicle for any teen.