Land Rover’s Kiwi ‘Pioneer’ Discovery Model

The launch of a new Land Rover Discovery designed for New Zealand will see one of the lowest ever price points on its most popular model according to its distributors. Land Rover NZ general manager Steve Kenchington says at under $100,000, the entry level Discovery Pioneer model has one of the lowest price points ever for the seven seat SUV. “From the exterior, the Pioneer model will look very similar to the other models in the existing Discovery range. Under the hood it features a 3L V6 twin-turbo diesel engine which produces 190kw at 3750rpm and 600Nm torque between 2250 and 1750rpm. “The Pioneer can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 8.1 seconds and offers fuel economy of up to 6.8 litres/100km. “A 3500kg braked towing capacity, puts it up there with any other Land Rover and this model will also come equipped with a range of class leading safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Trailer Stability Assist,” he says. Kenchington says the streamlined new model is expected to appeal to a new market looking for cost efficiencies as well as the unparalleled performance expected from the brand. “There is a significant customer base in New Zealand looking for the rugged capabilities of the Discovery who are happy to compromise on some of the more ‘urban’ features like multiple charging points for their smartphones - we expect it to be particularly popular in rural and commercial settings as well as for those wanting a versatile towing vehicle for boats and trailers,” he says.