If you want a luxury SUV that’s not afraid to get dirty, the Land Rover Discovery 5 is the car for you. With its impressive off-road capabilities, lavish interior, and a handy connected app, it has everything you need to make life easier.
From a brand well-known for their impressive off-road capabilities, the new Discovery 5 feels at home on palace grounds or challenging terrains. This premium 7 seater SUV is a family car designed for adventures. Here’s our expert review following a long-term test.
What's new for the 2023 Land Rover Discovery?
The Discovery is not a brand-new car. It was first released in 1989 to compete with popular Japanese brands like Toyota. Originally, the Discovery Series 1 was based on the same platform as the Range Rover, but was made more affordable with a broad range of engines and later available with 5 doors.
While the 2023 Discovery 5 looks similar to last year’s model, there are a few notable changes to the line-up. Heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, 3-zone climate control and a Meridian sound system are now standard across all trims.
Perhaps the biggest announcement is the introduction of a new Metropolitan Edition. This range-topping trim gains a fancy front grill, 22″ alloys, heated steering wheel, and heated seats all around.
Engines and Capability
Off-Road Capabilites
The Land Rover Discovery 5 is a true off-road utility vehicle that can handle even the toughest trails. With its advanced Terrain Response 2 system, the Discovery can automatically scan the surface ahead and adjust its driving modes accordingly. Simply drive forward and let the clever computers conquer sand, snow, mud, or rocks with ease.
Additionally, the vehicle’s high ground clearance and impressive angles combined with the Discovery’s All-Terrain Progress Control helps you scale steep inclines and descents while maintaining a steady speed to avoid losing control, even when the surface is slippery.
There ain’t no mountain high enough, but what about wide rivers? Well, the Discovery 5 also boasts a wading depth of 35.4 inches (0.9 m), meaning that it can swim through shallow bodies of water.
| Standard | 0ff-road | |
|---|---|---|
|
Ride Height |
207mm |
283mm |
|
Approach Angle |
26° |
34° |
|
Departure Angle |
24.8° |
30° |
|
Ramp Angle |
21.2° |
27.5° |
|
Max Wading Depth |
900mm |
900mm |
Engine Specifications
Off-roading isn’t the only thing the Discovery does well. The powerful engine, air suspension and tremendous gearbox deliver a sublime driving experience. But, being a heavy car, cornering at speeds is a bit unnerving. Although steering remains light and direct, you can feel the weight shift and the body feels slightly unstable. It is an SUV, though—it wasn’t designed for dynamic driving.
Depending on your needs, you can choose an engine that suits. I tested the turbocharged 3.0-litre 6-cylinder Ingenium engine that provides 300hp.
| D250 | D300 | P360 | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fuel Type |
Diesel Mild Hybrid |
Diesel Mild Hybrid |
Single-motor RWD |
|
Engine Specs |
3.0L 6-cylinder |
3.0L 6-cylinder |
3.0L 6-cylinder |
|
Horsepower |
249HP |
300HP |
360HP |
|
Transmission |
Automatic |
Automatic |
Automatic |
|
0-60mph (secs) |
7.6s |
6.5s |
6.2s |
|
MPG (up to) |
34.7 |
34.8 |
27.5 |
2023 Land Rover Discovery Interior Technology
Most convenient Features
-
JLR InControl App
-
Customisable digital dashboard
-
Pivi Pro with connected Navigation
-
Adjustable centre arm rest
-
Heated seats
Step inside the Land Rover Discovery 5 and you’ll never want to leave. With premium materials throughout and advanced technology at your fingertips, the Discovery 5 interior truly sets the standard for the luxury SUV market.
One of the standout features is its seating capacity of up to seven passengers. Ample headroom and legroom in all three rows means even adults can sit comfortably in the back. The middle row of seats can be adjusted electronically, and rear seats can be folded at the push of a button. When these seats are folded flat, the cargo space is a staggering 1,137 litres!
However, advanced technology is what really sets the Discovery apart. The intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system comes standard on all models, with a sharp 11.4-inch touchscreen display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Land Rover inControl App
In addition to the impressive interior tech, there is a connected app for smartphones. The Land Rover inControl app allows you to start your Discovery, set the temperature, and even lock and unlock the doors remotely from your smartphone. Wherever you are in the world, however far from your car, you’re in control. (Internet connection required).
The biggest benefit of this app is the peace of mind it brings via Land Rover’s secure tracker subscription. If you leave the car unlocked, if someone tries to break in, or if the car is moving without the ignition turned on, you get an alert straight to your mobile. You can also activate ‘guardian mode’ which heightens the security if you’re travelling away abroad.
With secure tracker, you have a dedicated security team monitoring your car 24/7. When the car is being moved without the key, the dedicated team of security experts will call you immediately. If you confirm the car is stolen, they contact the police and provide tracking information to help recover your car quickly.
This subscription is free for the first year, then it costs £710 for 36 months. To put it another way, you get comprehensive tracking and security of your £60k+ car for under £20 per month.
Dylan's Expert Review
After spending an entire month testing the Land Rover Discovery, it’s time to share my opinion with you, and admit whether it’s worth buying or not.
Discovery 5 Practicality
The Discovery 5 is extremely practical. You will struggle to find another vehicle that provides so much space, comfort, and assurance. Despite its size, the Discovery is easy to drive around town and the parking sensors with rearview camera make parking a breeze. Plus, the seven seats allow larger groups to travel without the need for two cars.
One point to note is the access height. I’m 172 cm tall and still had to climb into the driver seat. Annoyingly, the model tested didn’t have a step, which I would recommend fitting.
Drive and performance
The drive was soft, quiet, and relaxing. Exceptionally drama-free. As an SUV, the Discovery is extraordinary. The class-leading terrain response helps any driver to combat difficult surfaces, since the computers do everything for you (and better than humans can).
Is it worth buying the 2023 Land Rover Discovery?
Considering the superb off-road capabilities and ease of everyday use, the new Discovery 5 should be high on your list if you’re looking for a luxury SUV. Other vehicles in its class will struggle to compete. Overall, the Land Rover Discovery 5 is the most versatile 7 seater luxury SUV on the market.
How much does the 2023 Land Rover Discovery cost?
The Land Rover Discovery starts from £60,540. This model tested cost £69,090, including £9,025 worth of optional extras.
| D250 | D300 | P360 | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Discovery S |
N/A |
£60,540 |
N/A |
|
Dynamic SE |
N/A |
£67,985 |
£68,855 |
|
Dynamic HSE |
£69,290 |
£72,350 |
£73,225 |
|
Discovery Metropolitan |
N/A |
£77,095 |
£77,765 |
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