[Taboleo] Sleek Looks and Tough Off-Road Performance... New Discovery Sport

#Outstanding Off-Road #Comfortable On-Road #Plenty of Space Even Fully Loaded with Camping Gear #Perfect for Family Leisure

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] 'If only I had come with my family...'

This was a sudden thought after test-driving the New Discovery Sport. In short, it was a sports utility vehicle (SUV) that combined off-road performance safe enough for my children to enjoy, with a comfortable on-road ride that allows our tired family to get a good night's sleep on the way home after leisure activities. Additionally, the spacious cargo area that can easily accommodate camping gear for a family of four caught my eye. The New Discovery Sport, returning with a new look after five years, proudly showcased this 'Janus-like' charm. I experienced the New Discovery Sport, which reflects Land Rover's relentless dedication, by driving 65 km on-road and 3 km off-road in Hongcheon, Gangwon Province.

- How are the design and interior space?

▲ My first impression was so refined that I wondered, 'Can it really perform well off-road?' The newly applied headlamps, more dynamic bumper, and body kit reminiscent of the Discovery maintained Land Rover’s characteristic solid stability while adding a sporty image.

The size is not much different from the previous model. The dimensions are 4597 mm in length and 2741 mm in wheelbase. However, with a width of 1904 mm and a height of 1727 mm, it is suitable for a mid-size vehicle. The notably tall height gives a spacious feeling inside without any sense of confinement.

The interior space is generous. Especially, the second-row seats can move forward and backward, which is a great advantage as it allows flexible adjustment depending on the situation. They can move up to 160 mm. The panoramic glass sunroof filling the ceiling provides an open view for rear passengers. However, the short length of the second-row seat cushions is a bit disappointing.

Convenience features such as the ClearSight rearview mirror that helps secure rear visibility, wireless charging system, and indoor air ionizer are all included. The ClearSight rearview mirror function, which transmits the rear view to the mirror via a camera at the push of a button when there are people or large objects in the back seat, was especially satisfying.

- How is the mild hybrid system in actual use?

▲ The curb weight of the New Discovery Sport is the heaviest in its class at 2130 kg. Naturally, fuel efficiency tends to be poor. I got the impression that this drawback is compensated by the mild hybrid system.

The installed Ingenium diesel engine produces 180 horsepower and 43.9 kgf·m of torque. It is combined with a 48V-based mild hybrid system and a small battery, along with a 9-speed automatic transmission supplied by ZF and an AWD system. The mild hybrid system improves efficiency by about 6%. The use of the electric motor also significantly contributes to smoother driving.

The official combined fuel efficiency is 11.5 km/l. During the test drive, it recorded 11.4 km/l on-road, which is not bad considering the curb weight.

- How is the off-road performance?

▲ The highlight of the New Discovery Sport is its off-road capability. Land Rover Korea was very confident about this aspect. They even created a 1.5 km off-road course in Hongcheon for hands-on experience.

The off-road performance was very impressive. Through six driving modes, it easily conquered hills of about 60 degrees, descents, bumps, gravel, and sandy sections. The vehicle’s stability prevented loss of traction on rough terrain. Thanks to this, driving was free of major anxiety. The exterior looks sophisticated, but the body feels muscular.

Notably, the course included a water crossing 550 mm deep and 100 m long. Using the All-Terrain Progress Control, setting a constant speed of 5 km/h, and steering alone, it passed through the icy water crossing without difficulty. The New Discovery Sport’s maximum wading depth is 600 mm, which exceeds the level expected from a typical SUV. Considering the off-road courses most domestic users will encounter, its performance was more than sufficient.

After driving various off-road courses, my impression was 'stable and thrilling.' This made me think it would be great to come with family. It was much more fun than most amusement rides but stable enough to safely carry children.

- How is the on-road driving?

▲ On-road, it reveals a different charm. It is quiet and comfortable. Basic noise insulation and steering performance are good. However, given the vehicle’s weight, it is not very nimble. It feels heavy. Acceleration is not very fast either. But cornering, which I was worried about, was better controlled than expected considering the weight.

In summary, the New Discovery Sport offers 'stability both on and off the road.' It is a vehicle that provides a comfortable ride in everyday life and can be driven anywhere nationwide with family on holidays. I think the biggest advantage is that it can satisfy diverse consumer needs simultaneously. Four models of the New Discovery Sport are released domestically: D150 S priced at 62.3 million KRW, D180 S at 66.4 million KRW, D180 SE at 72.7 million KRW, and P250 SE at 69.8 million KRW.