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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  Dream Car, but not quite a Nightmare - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By vgardon - September 24 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted this car and finally bought one in 11/2008. It was already 5 years old, but initially ran well. However, after having it for about 1 year, major issues arose (i.e., O2 sensors went, window motor broke, major ticking noise from under the hood, etc). This car is very expensive to maintain and after a while, it just wasnt worth pouring any more money into it. Thankfully, it has never shut down on me, but I dont think I would buy another one until I know much more about maintaining luxury cars.

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  D Rover - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By demast - September 20 - 2:00 am

  This is a great SUV with unbelievable off-road capability. The only downfall is the poor gas mileage. Would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone that needs full time four wheel drive.

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  Whatever you do keep it awayyyyyy!! - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By thesonnyjim - September 17 - 12:13 am

  I was the second owner at 38k miles with existing warranty paid 16.5k from Private seller about 5 years ago. At first glance I loved the car but after driving it for 6 months, a Nightmare!! The gaskets went, luckily I had warranty but still had to pay labor. Every little thing started to break down, cheap plastic pieces would break off and cost expensive for something that should cost very cheap & actuators go alot. Make a long story short after replacing the rear hydraulics (paid 4k & 2 months in the shop) I took the car to a dealer that took it in at a value of 4700 and traded it in for a 2012 Toyota Sienna SE. Im very happy with that vehicle. A Land Rover...Never again in this lifetime!

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  Wish I would have stayed with Nissan - 2004 Land Rover Discovery
  By Zachary - September 16 - 9:53 am

  I purchased my Disco because my father has owned one since 1995 and has had very good luck with it. So when I finally got the means to afford a disco I purchased my 2004. The first issue I had was the tranny coolant line went and left me stranded 6 hours into a road trip. Now Im also having issues with flooded floor boards after car washes and AC usage on very hot days. The things a gas pig and has a rear differential leak and maybe and engine leak. I had my oil replaced a month ago and had to add a quart of oil to the engine. Is this normal I would hope not. Over all Im thinking of taking a hit and purchasing another Pathfinder.

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  It is such fun to drive!! - 2004 Land Rover Discovery
  By lola - September 14 - 2:00 am

  When we take a long and tiring day trip, the Land Rover makes it much more enjoyable, not only because of the smooth ride it gives, but the comfort level is way up there. We had another Discovery a few years back, and obviously there have been a few improvements since then. We love it!! This one is a true keeper!!!The service we receive at the dealership is superb!

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  I Love My Disco! - 2004 Land Rover Discovery
  By Peeete - September 8 - 7:13 pm

  I only have driven it 400 miles so far, but I am impressed. Coming from a sportscar, I am surprised how agile this vehicle is. Its not fast off the line, but it has plenty of power on the highway. The visibility is outstanding, and the handling is better than two rigid axels and ancient steering should be. The vehicle is solid as a rock, and the finishes in the cabin are WAY better than the new LR3 (oops I mean a Ford Explorer). I admit I had my concerns about buying such an antiquated vehicle, but it functions very well. Sure its quirky; some ergonomics are lacking but the old-fashioned, stately British charm is a big part of its attractiveness! A local dealer to fix it helps too!

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  R Disco - 2004 Land Rover Discovery
  By BWLaClair - September 3 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car over the weekend. After 3 days i have fallen in love with this car, I had a 2002 Disco and i thought that was GREAT. THIS CAR CAN ONLY BE DESCRIBED IN 1 WORD WOW. This car is fablous and i recomend to everyone to get one if you want to have performance sex appeal and well to have your neigbors look at you and go wow. YEAH GREAT CAR.

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  I like it a lot! - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By LaRhea - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love and have never owned such a great vehicle. Another great part about the Discovery is how easy they have made it to work on yourself. The back area is perfect for my Dog and he goes with me most everywhere. My last SUV was a GMC Jimmy. To say the very least, this Discovery does far more. The draw back is getting in and out of the backseat and gas milage is a bit less than the Jimmy, but not by much.

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  Tough trucks, but expensive to operate - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By Raoulduke101 - August 21 - 2:33 am

  Ive had my 03 Disco for just over 6 years now. Bought it used w/ 10k miles. It is a very capable off-road vehicle and can even tough a 4000 pound boat with relative ease (braking is not so great). The truck has held up relatively well, but I have had a number of major problems including a blown manifold gasket ($800 repair), blown axle seals (warranty), 02 sensor ($800 repair), and the window motor ($200, installed myself). Alot of annoying minor problems have occurred also. The gas mileage really stinks (11-12 town, 13-15 hwy) for such a small vehicle. The car is not very comfortable, as you feel pretty crammed inside it. I would not buy another one.

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  Love it or Hate it! - 2003 Land Rover Discovery
  By Malvert - July 18 - 3:43 pm

  Problems: Serpentine belt replaced three times, left front headlight twice, third brake light, leaking throttle body heater gasket replaced three times, rear brakes at 25k, now new brakes front and rear at 54k (doing myself). New tires at 46k. DVD screen wiring came loose, vacuum lines replaced at 53k. Horrible turning radius. 10 seconds 0-60. Vomit inducing cruise control. My wife loves this truck. I personally hate it...but fail to mention this to her. The styling is great but the mechanicals and electricals are just terrible. LR would sell a ton of trucks if they could just improve the quality of their products. Good things: Has never left us stranded.