Land Rover Ireland launched the new Discovery Sport last week with prices in Ireland starting from €37,100 for the 2.2 TD4 S model.
Land Rover boldly claims the new Discovery Sport is the world’s most versatile and capable premium compact SUV, and the first member of the new Discovery family. Certainly I believe it currently is unique in its segment combining a 5+2 seating configurability in a compact footprint that is no larger than existing 5-seat premium SUVs. And the Discovery Sport’s dynamic design is matched by engineering integrity.
The new Discovery Sport offers a suite of innovations debut from Land Rover, including the next generation multi-link rear axle, advanced pedestrian airbag technology, and an all-new touchscreen infotainment system. It is also wrapped in a state-of-the-art high-strength steel and lightweight aluminium bodyshell for what Land Rover says delivers outstanding performance, safety and efficiency.
At launch the Discovery Sport is equipped with a range of four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. Both the all-alloy Si4 2.0-litre petrol engine and the 2.2-litre turbo-diesel feature stop-start technology, high-pressure direct injection, low-friction internal components and smart regenerative charging, which the premium vehicle manufacturer says delivers outstanding performance and economy.
Later in 2015, a highly efficient ED4 turbo-diesel engine will join the range with CO2 emissions of just 119g/km (the manufacturer's estimate ). That is really excellent as it would be comparable to many smaller and less versatile family hatchbacks. Both 9-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions are available. There will the option of two or four-wheel drive and a powerful four-cylinder petrol engine too.
Speaking at the Irish launch, Eddie Kavanagh, general manager of Land Rover Ireland, said: “The Discovery Sport is now available to test drive at Land Rover dealerships across the country. It is very competitively priced at €37,100 and, as you would expect from a Land Rover, it offers supreme versatility with a very generous and adaptable loadspace in the option 5+2 seating. We’re confident the Discovery Sport will be a big hit with our customers, both old and new.”
Combining excellent design, engineering and versatility makes the new Land Rover Discovery Sport stand out from the crowd. Its chassis is as competent on-road as off, and this also contributes towards making it a very accomplished vehicle. It is more than just a replacement for the Freelander.
