2022 Land Rover Discovery

The Land Rover Discovery is one of the iconic brand's key models and isn't a bad place to start looking if the greater Land Rover family appears a bit overwhelming. It's not as chic as the smaller Range Rover Evoque, as rugged as the Defender, or as ostentatious as a Range Rover. But the Discovery is a brilliant blend of off-road prowess, luxury, and some impressive infotainment technology. When the ground isn't littered with gravel, mud, and rocks, the Discovery isn't as athletic rivals like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, both of which offer more power and performance. Land Rover offers the option of a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system that produces 355 horsepower or a smaller 2.0-liter turbo-four with 296 hp. Although it isn't the best Land Rover in every category, the handsome Discovery is a solid all-rounder.

We sampled a 2022 Discovery R-Dynamic S, the model's mid-range trim. Following our week-long test, we've concluded it offers the best value in the Discovery lineup for a number of reasons. Without a doubt, the Discovery is the weekend warrior SUV for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Other than the Discovery's odd off-center rear license plate, it's got a sophisticated and substantial appearance that should find favor with shoppers in this segment. The sleek LED headlights feature signature LED daytime running lights. A sliding front sunroof and a fixed rear panoramic roof are standard, as are power-folding mirrors and LED taillights. On the base model, 20-inch alloy wheels are standard.

Our Lantau Bronze R-Dynamic came with front fog lights, a black exterior pack, and optional 21-inch, five-spoke gloss black wheels for $2,000 (20-inch alloys and a spare come standard). At the top of the range, the R-Dynamic HSE gets 22-inch wheels, premium headlights with auto high beam assist, and a power gesture tailgate.

The Land Rover Discovery's dimensions are similar to those of the BMW X5. But, while the Discovery is almost an inch longer, it's over four inches lower. The Discovery is 195.1 inches in length, 87.4 inches in width with the mirrors included, and is 74.3 inches tall. The wheelbase measures 115.1 inches, which is around seven inches longer than the wheelbase of the smaller Discovery Sport.

The Discovery has maximum approach/departure/ramp angles of 34/30/27.5 degrees, respectively. Along with a ride height of 11.14 inches and a wading depth of 35.43 inches, it's a legitimate off-roader.

The curb weight works out to 4,865 pounds for the four-cylinder models, which goes up to 5,160 lbs for the mild-hybrid variant.

Land Rover has provided Discovery shoppers with a generous color palette to choose from, but only one shade, Fuji White, is free of charge. The metallic palette consists of Lantau Bronze (our car), Santorini Black, Yulong White, Byron Blue, Eiger Grey, Portofino Blue, and Hakuba Silver. These metallics all cost $710. Premium metallics are more expensive at $1,550 each and include Carpathian Grey, Silicon Silver, Namib Orange, and Charente Grey. The R-Dynamic looks rather good in any of the grey shades with its black exterior details. On R-Dynamic models, such as our sampler, a black contrast roof is offered as a $1,000 option.

There are two engines in the Discovery lineup, starting with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and topped by the 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo with mild-hybrid assistance. Every model comes with all-wheel drive as standard. The base engine isn't bad and is capable of getting the Discovery from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 125 mph.

The bigger engine produces 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, sufficient for a 0-60 time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. Even though this power plant ensures that the Discovery feels brisk when accelerating between traffic lights or on the highway, it isn't the fastest SUV in its class. Even the entry-level BMW X5 is comfortably quicker. Then again, the Discovery's shtick has never been about blistering acceleration. More impressive is the Land Rover's towing capacity, which maxes out at 6,613 lbs for the 2.0-liter model and 8,200 lbs for the 3.0-liter. The latter figure is more than both the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 can manage. And when the road ends and those other SUVs come to a grinding halt, the Discovery can go off-roading with the best of them.

The base Discovery uses the P300 powertrain. It's a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit producing 296 hp and 295 lb-ft. The bigger P360 powertrain found in our tester pairs a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for outputs of 355 hp and 365 lb-ft. In both cases, an eight-speed automatic transmission is used.

There's nothing wrong with the base engine as it delivers adequate acceleration and overtaking isn't too much of a nervous affair. Peak torque is available from low down - another advantage in the entry-level Discovery's favor. It pairs well with the slick eight-speeder which is refined and avoids excessive hunting. The P360 is better, though, and it emits a nice sound. Some may consider it a bit disappointing since it's the most powerful engine in the range, but it works best when you're taking it easier and relying on the low-down torque.

When you aren't navigating muddy trails, the 2022 Land Rover Discovery SUV is a pleasant vehicle to live with. The ride quality is a particular strength as the air suspension deals with bumps and surface changes beautifully, and it can put many a comfortable crossover to shame in this regard. With torque-rich engines and a smooth transmission, the SUV is extremely enjoyable to drive on highways or for extended road trips for drivers and passengers alike. But, when asked to deliver any entertainment value, things are not quite as good. The Discovery feels like the large, top-heavy SUV it is. While it won't fall over at the first sign of a twisty road, the lack of steering feel and a reluctance to make quick changes of direction mean that it's far off the pace of more road-biased vehicles like the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. If you're looking for a driver's luxury SUV, the BMW and Porsche are your best bets.

But when the going gets tough, the newest Land Rover Discovery reminds you that it's still a Land Rover. The Terrain Response system works with standard gear - like gradient acceleration control and hill descent control to make this a rewarding off-roader for novices and experienced drivers alike. It'll wade through deeper water and clamber over larger obstacles than most rivals. In this area, the Discovery is a class leader.

Regardless of the engine option you choose, the Discovery's gas mileage figures are quite unremarkable. The base 2.0-liter returns 19/22/21 mpg city/highway/combined and the 3.0-liter MHEV model a similar 18/24/21 mpg. By comparison, the BMW X5 sDrive40i returns up to 21/26/23 mpg and the base Audi Q7 manages 20/25/22 mpg.

Unlike a smaller car, the Discovery has a large 23.8-gallon gas tank so it should be able to cover around 500 miles on a single tank.

The Disco has a classy and well-built cabin. All occupants will find seating to be comfortable and spacious save for those confined to the cramped third row, which is best left for small children only. For the driver, there's a large, crisp touchscreen providing access to key connectivity features, plus amenities like keyless entry, a garage door opener, and a powered tailgate that make the SUV easier to live with. Other standard features include a power-adjustable steering column, dual-zone climate control, and a 3D surround-view camera. The cabin can be jazzed up with plush leather upholstery and a variety of wood trim finishes. The Germans may have the slight edge in terms of quality but the Discovery easily lives up to its luxury SUV billing.

The Discovery seats a maximum of seven occupants in three rows. In the first two rows, adults will be comfortable thanks to ample legroom and headroom. Access is also straightforward due to the large doors. Getting into the 3rd row requires a bit more dexterity, and once seated, it's not as spacious as the second row. Shorter adults will be able to ride back there for shorter distances, but six-footers are best accommodated in one of the first two rows.

There are no serious problems with outward visibility, although the rear headrests are quite large and can hamper the driver's view out of the back window.

The Discovery gets grained leather or Luxtec leatherette upholstery as standard in a choice of Ebony and Light Oyster color schemes. The leather adds Acorn as a third color choice. None of these cost extra although the Acorn seats require you to add 18-way power-adjustable front seats for $1,350. Light Oyster or Ebony headliners are available, while the trim options include Gloss Black, Titanium Mesh ($300), Shadow Aluminum ($300), Natural Charcoal Oak veneer ($600), and Natural Shadow Oak veneer ($600). Finally, the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel can be finished in Dinamica ($600) or an alternative type of leather ($300). However, the Dinamica steering wheel must be paired with Luxtec/suedecloth seats, and the alternative leather steering wheel requires a host of other upgrades like Windsor leather which will add a whopping $5,300 to the price of the base model.

R-Dynamic models like ours receive metal treadplates with R-Dynamic branding and standard Shadow Aluminum trim. These models also have the option of two-tone Light Oyster/Ebony seats or more opulent Windsor leather in either Ebony or Light Oyster/Ebony, an option that costs $750. The Light Oyster/Ebony Windsor leather seats will require other extras like 20-way front seats with ventilation for an added cost.

The range-topping R-Dynamic HSE (only available with the bigger engine) gets the Windsor leather seats as standard. From the base model all the way up to the HSE, the Discovery's sturdy and attractive interior makes a good impression, but the experience isn't as lavish as when you're seated behind the wheel of the Mercedes GLE-Class.

All models can be equipped with full extended leather for an additional $1,500, although this option does require first specifying the Windsor leather.

As is often the case with seven-seater SUVs, cargo capacity is poor when all the seats are upright. Behind the third row, there are just 9.1 cubic feet. With the third row folded, cargo space increases to a much more practical 45 cubes. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat has an electric fold function and by dropping these, the Discovery offers 74.3 cubes.

Interior storage space is excellent, too. The midsize SUV comes with in-facia storage above the usual glovebox, lidded storage in the center console, large door bins in the first two rows, and cupholders for front and rear occupants.

Land Rover has been generous with the Discovery's standard specification in the US market. Even the entry-level model comes with 14-way power-adjustable front seats, a power-adjustable steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-folding mirrors, a sliding front sunroof, a fixed rear panoramic roof, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The driver gets an interactive digital display, push-button start, keyless entry, and a garage door opener.

All of the expected driver-assistance features are standard such as blind-spot assist, a 3D surround-view camera system, front/rear parking sensors, and cruise control with a speed limiter.

Our R-Dynamic sampler came with a heated steering wheel, 18-way heated electric memory front seats with a very convenient captain's armrest, which adds another $1,350 to the bill. The top-spec R-Dynamic HSE boasts electric third-row seats, a powered gesture tailgate, 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating/cooling, and adaptive cruise control.

Land Rover's options list includes both standalone upgrades and packages. Ticking a few boxes can add features like three- or four-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel.

Land Rover's latest Pivi Pro infotainment interface is a huge improvement over what was used in older models. Even people unfamiliar with Land Rover products should quickly be able to get used to the responsive touchscreen, which measures 11.4 inches. The base model comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, so users of each won't feel alienated when needing to connect their smartphones. Bluetooth, HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio are all also standard. Navigation with real-time traffic information allows for convenient trips when heading to an unknown destination, or if you want to avoid congestion. The standard sound system includes eight speakers and dynamic volume control. On the HSE, a more powerful Meridian sound system with 15 speakers is equipped.

Lower-spec models, like our R-Dynamic, can upgrade to either a 12- or 14-speaker Meridian system (in our case another $1,250), with both including a subwoofer.

The 2022 Discovery isn't a vehicle with the best reliability reputation in its class, although it's not in an absolutely dire situation either. J.D. Power hasn't yet published a rating for the new Land Rover Discovery, although the 2020 version did attain a score of 72 out of 100 for quality and reliability. This isn't as good as several other German SUVs. At the time of writing, the 2022 Discovery had not yet succumbed to any recalls. However, last year's model was recalled for a loss of electrical power and for a faulty seat belt automatic locking retractor. Both of these issues applied to the 2020 model too, which suffered from an additional three recalls. On a positive note, the number of serious problems appears to be decreasing.

The Discovery comes with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty, including 24-hour roadside assistance. A six-year corrosion perforation warranty is not limited by mileage.

No Land Rover Discovery safety review has been published by the NHTSA, and the same goes for the IIHS. In the Euro NCAP test, the SUV attained the maximum five-star rating, though.

Land Rover has equipped the Discovery to a high level in terms of safety gear, and this applies to all models. The base Discovery comes with eight airbags including curtain airbags for front/rear occupants, along with the usuals like stability control and tire pressure monitoring.

Driver-assistance tech includes emergency braking, blind-spot assist, a 3D surround-view camera system, a clear exit monitor, cruise control with a speed limiter, a driver condition monitor, lane-keep assist, front/rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition with an adaptive speed limiter, and wade sensing. Hill descent control and gradient acceleration control are standard features as part of the Discovery's off-roading equipment list. Our tester also included the optional head-up display. The R-Dynamic HSE adds automatic high beams and adaptive cruise control.

Depending on how you look at it, the Land Rover Discovery is either a middling luxury SUV or a great one. If you never intend to head off-road, the Discovery can't match the athleticism, speed, or efficiency of other luxury SUVs like the BMW X5. The Land Rover is an accomplished cruiser and the bigger mild-hybrid-assisted powertrain is good, but it's just not as good as the best.

For the adventurous buyer, the Discovery emerges as a more impressive contender that will confidently tackle obstacles that would leave most rivals floundering, and it'll tow more than many of them, too. We also appreciate that Land Rover doesn't force you to spend extra on the majority of its driver-assist technologies. Finally, the Discovery is a handsome SUV and the interior is well-built and luxurious. Despite all this, the Disco fails to land a knockout blow in what is a highly competitive segment.

The price of the Land Rover Discovery begins at an MSRP of $53,900 for the base model. From there, you can move up to the R-Dynamic S at $56,400. With the larger 3.0-liter engine, the R-Dynamic S costs $61,900 and the R-Dynamic HSE goes for $68,900. The MSRP cost of the Land Rover Discovery excludes the destination charge of $1,350 in the USA.

With options, our Discovery R-Dynamic S came to a grand total of $73,255, including the $1,350 destination charge.

The base Discovery SUV price is lower than its German rivals. By comparison, the BMW X5 goes on sale for $59,400 and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class starts at $54,750.

The 2022 Land Rover Discovery SUV is offered in a choice of three trims: S, R-Dynamic S, and R-Dynamic HSE. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, dubbed P300, produces 296 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque and is standard on the S and R-Dynamic S. Higher up in the lineup is the more powerful 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, called the P360. It produces 355 hp and 365 lb-ft; this engine is optional on the R-Dynamic S and standard on the R-Dynamic HSE. All models get all-wheel drive as standard.

The base Discovery S comes with LED headlights, power-folding mirrors, 20-inch alloy wheels, and puddle lights. Inside, you get dual-zone climate control, 14-way power-adjustable front seats, an 11.4-inch touchscreen interface, and driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring and a 3D surround-view camera system.

The R-Dynamic S adds a black exterior pack, unique R-Dynamic bumpers, gloss black exterior detailing, and Shadow Aluminum interior trim.

Finally, the R-Dynamic HSE can only be had with the bigger engine. It comes with 22-inch alloy wheels, a powered gesture tailgate, 20-way power-adjustable front seats with ventilation, a Meridian surround sound system, and adaptive cruise control.

All Discovery models can be upgraded with a selection of standalone options or packages. On the base model, the Cold Climate Pack adds a heated windshield, heated washer jets, and a heated steering wheel for $600. The Hot Climate Pack bundles together a cooled center console compartment, four-zone climate control, and a cabin air purification system for $1,100. Other add-ons include a tow hitch receiver for $675, adaptive cruise control for $1,325, and four-zone climate control on its own for $800. The cheaper of the two Meridian sound systems costs $360 and the range-topping 14-speaker unit goes for $1,250. Wireless charging can be added for $350

On six-cylinder models, you can opt for the Towing Pack at $1,150, which adds All Terrain Progress Control, Terrain Response 2, advanced tow assist, and a tow hitch receiver. The Advanced Off-Road Capability Pack comes with All Terrain Response Control, Terrain Response 2, and configurable Terrain Response for $700. An active rear locking differential is optional on six-cylinder variants and will cost you $1,100. There's also the Cold Climate Pack with a heated steering wheel, windshield, and washer jets for $600.

The 3.0-liter Discovery with the mild-hybrid system returns the same combined gas mileage figure as the 2.0-liter model and is more powerful, so we would choose it for the added performance. We'd be satisfied with the R-Dynamic S. It's $7,000 less expensive than the R-Dynamic HSE and comes with plenty of features like a powered tailgate, leather upholstery, the 11.4-inch touchscreen interface, a 3D surround-view camera, and traffic sign recognition. Since you're purchasing a Land Rover, we'll assume that off-roading ability is important to you. For that reason, we'd tick the box for the Advanced Off-Road Capability Pack and the Cold Climate Pack. We also think adaptive cruise control is a must in a luxury SUV.

The new Defender is an entirely different prospect from the last Defender to be sold in the United States. It's still a rugged, incredibly capable off-roader, but it's now quite luxurious if you go for a top-spec model. Starting at $47,700, the Defender is cheaper but that price only gets you a basic and much smaller Defender 90. As good as the Discovery is off-road, the Defender is better - it has much better maximum approach/departure angles and is lifted higher off the ground, giving it a more practical ride height. The Defender also comes with a more powerful six-pot engine with 395 hp, making it faster than the Discovery. On normal roads, the Discovery edges ahead with its smooth ride and more opulent cabin. The Discovery also has a lot more cargo space behind its second row of seats. Despite this, the newer and more rugged Defender is better at living up to the promise of that Land Rover badge, so it's our choice.

The smaller Range Rover Evoque is more of an outright fashion statement than the Discovery. It has flashier styling and a gorgeous cabin but it's not nearly as capable in off-road conditions. For instance, the Evoque's wading depth of just over 20 inches is around 15 inches less than what the Discovery can manage. The Evoque is more engaging to drive, although its ride can't match that of the more cushioned Discovery. There isn't a huge disparity in terms of performance, although the Discovery has a far higher towing capacity. For around the same price as a base Discovery, you can get behind the wheel of a well-equipped Evoque HST, which will turn more heads. The Discovery is ultimately the more capable, spacious SUV, though. If you want a luxury SUV with some real off-road credentials, get the Discovery. If you prefer style over practicality, get the Evoque.