![]() In other markets, like Australia, this diff-lock system is an optional extra but in SA it’s standard across the Discovery range. Such adaptability is achieved through the Discovery’s comprehensive traction control system coupled with the vehicle’s electronically controlled rear limited-slip diff, which is also lockable in a 50:50 torque split – this can’t be done manually but is automatically operated in conjunction with the vehicle’s traction control system. We never had to charge an obstacle or rely on momentum to get us through. Throughout the day, as we slipped from one mode to the next, the Discovery 4’s Terrain Response system proved me a cynic, performing flawlessly. However, on our test trail (Tierkloof 4×4) one of the toughest obstacles was a deep axle-twister on a slippery slope with only two tyres on the ground, the Discovery 4 failed to conquer the obstacle on its first attempt in Gravel mode, but then sailed through using the Mud-Ruts selection. I was a bit sceptical when I read this, doubting that an onboard computer could offer such a performance difference off-road. For example, if you’re driving in slightly damp sand it may be best to try the Mud-Ruts programme. The manual states that you may have to experiment with the various programmes if one isn’t producing the desired results. The owner’s manual lists the vehicle’s Terrain Response options as: General (full-time 4WD), Grass-Gravel-Snow, Mud-Ruts, Sand and Rock-Crawl modes. Another slight gripe is that the vehicle’s three sunroofs (yip, every row gets one) sport flimsy light diffusers these covers are simply not up to the task of blocking out African heat and glare. The driving position offers class-leading all-round visibility, except out of the rear window when all the rear headrests are in place. Your left arm can take a break on the fold-down inner armrest, which caters for both front seat occupants. I always thought the Discovery 3’s dash was a little too utilitarian for such an upmarket SUV happily the new Discovery’s dash boasts swish, modern styling and is pitched at an angle which makes for easy access for both driver and passenger.Īnother ergonomic feature of note is the broad, padded windowsill that forms the perfect armrest for your right arm with your elbow resting here your fingertips are within easy reach of the window controls. There’re also two glove compartments and a deep centre-console box between the driver and passenger seats. This seat-folding configuration is nothing short of genius it may take a while to decipher which lever does what, but once you’ve cracked that Rubik’s Cube you’ll soon appreciate the ingenuity of how each seat folds, flips and shifts forward to provide a completely flat cargo area.Īs for the rest of the cabin, ample storage space can be found in the form of slots, pockets, trays, as well as cup and bottle holders. Fold the second and third rows flat into the floor and the 4’s square-shaped interior is transformed into a help-your-daughter-move-into-her- first-flat-in-one-trip storage area of 2 558 litres. With all seven seats in their upright position the new Disco sports laudable measures of head and leg room throughout the cabin – we transported several adults in the Disco and even those in the third row reported good comfort levels. ![]() Previous Discoverys have offered class-leading storage solutions and the Disco 4 continues this proud (and handy) tradition. ![]() In fact, many of the Discovery 4’s exterior changes have taken on a slight Range Rover feel, which in my opinion is great as the new look pleasingly combines upmarket appeal with purpose-built lines and good ol’ Disco heritage. On the outside, not much has changed from the previous generation Discovery 3 – the bumpers are marginally modified, there are LEDs integrated into the head and taillight clusters, and the plain-faced grille has been replaced by a metallic honeycomb item that closely resembles the new Range Rover’s grille. Well, after spending some time in this vehicle both on- and off-road, my view is that all Landy fans should come out from hiding and walk with their heads held high. When the news hit our shores many Land Rover supporters took to the hills – we heard it had something to do with chirping Toyota owners.Įarlier this year saw the release of the much anticipated Discovery 4, a vehicle that would either silence Tata-scoffing critics or reaffirm their predictions of a Land Rover demise. IN ‘08 it was announced that Tata would be buying Land Rover. Will this iconic off-roader live up to its reputation or has it become soft in its quest for opulence? Grant Spolander takes our new long-term test vehicle, a Discovery 4 HSE TDV6, for its first real off-road jaunt.
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