Discovering new adventures

Land Rover’s Discovery has become ever more popular and ever more capable over its near 30-year existence.

The all-new fifth generation model has just gone on sale. Based on the aluminium architecture of the Range Rover, it’s an astonishing 480kg – or six grown men – lighter than the old model.

That weight stripping means Jaguar Land Rover’s two-litre diesel can now haul it along well enough, so there’s a more efficient engine choice alongside the established three-litre V6 diesel.

Its looks have divided people. I like it from the front and side – it has the family look shared with the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Sport – but find the rear end and its offset number plate jarring. It needed to change, though. The old car was as aerodynamic as Anthony Joshua.

Prices start at £43,495 and a well equipped model costs much more. It should hold its value better than rivals, though.

Land Rover brought a selection of Discoveries to Scotland. I drove a stunning route from Loch Lomond, around the shores of Loch Tay to Dunkeld for some off-road action at the Land Rover Experience, then back again. I drove the two-litre on the outbound loop and the three-litre offroad and on the return leg.

With 237bhp the smaller engine is no slouch and it manages an impressive 43.5mpg. It’s absolutely fine but the three-litre diesel makes the car truly special (there’s also a three-litre supercharged petrol that will sell in tiny numbers).

Land Rover has improved ride and refinement, endowing the Disco with near-Range Rover levels of comfort.

The Discovery has always been roomy but this model takes practicality to a new level. All seats fold and raise electronically (you can even do it from your phone) and it’s a true seven-seater.

Land Rover’s PR boss Kim Palmer showed me which buttons to press and I fitted all 6ft 5in of me in one of the rearmost seats quite comfortably.

The interior has stepped upmarket and is brimming with technology.

Off-road, it still reigns supreme. Wading depth is up from 700mm to 900mm and a wealth of electronics help it crawl up and down some very steep and rugged slopes indeed.

The new Discovery is magnificent. It’s a practical family car, a luxury cruiser and the ultimate off- roader. For me, it beats the Audi Q7 and BMW X5. Only the Volvo XC90 is its equal.

It’s a practical family car, a luxury cruiser and the ultimate off roader