by Michael Butler
The Land Rover brand enjoys a legendary, bordering on mythical reputation in the US, and its hardcore off-road models carry some serious respect in the off-roading community. The 2021 Land Rover Discovery is a midsize SUV in its third generation and sees a significant refresh for the new year. Powered by new turbocharged engines, including a 355 horsepower 6-cylinder gas engine, the Discovery combines off-road capability with on-road comfort and luxury. This 4-door vehicle doesn't just look good; it will take you places few other SUVs in this class can. The Discovery goes up against the equally capable and less expensive Jeep Grand Cherokee.
A new generation Land Rover Discovery SUV arrived back in 2016 when it switched from the LR4 nameplate. Now, the 2021 Discovery has arrived, sporting the most significant changes to the model since the generation and name switch five years ago.
The refresh includes two new turbocharged engines, a new 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system, updated exterior looks, and a few new wheel designs. Other tech updates include a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a head-up display for the driver. All models now come with standard adjustable air suspension.
See trim levels and configurations:
Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
P300 S |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$53,900 |
P300 R-Dynamic S |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$56,400 |
P360 R-Dynamic S |
3.0L Turbo Inline-6 Hybrid
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$61,900 |
P360 R-Dynamic HSE |
3.0L Turbo Inline-6 Hybrid
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$68,900 |
NHTSA safety ratings are not available at this time.
The US market has a generous number of midsize family SUVs to choose from, making this one of the most competitive classes around, but the 2021 Land Rover Discovery has the edge over many of its competitors; it prides itself on its off-road capability and luxury. For most, this just sounds like a Jeep Grand Cherokee, but the Discovery feels classier and is arguably better off-road, too. The 2021 refresh is a big one and brings the Discovery fully up to speed with modern features.
However, it still doesn't have a safety rating, since neither the NHTSA nor IIHs has but the 2021 Land Rover Discovery to review. It has sturdy construction, though, and a decent array of safety systems in place to put your mind at ease.
Both engines offer strong performance, and there's a notable improvement in the overall level of tech. We adore the standard adjustable air suspension, and the Infotainment has also come a long way. With an optional two-speed transfer case and a locking rear differential, this machine will be able to cross mountains yet never seem out of place at the local country club.
As with the rest of the Land Rover lineup, the price of the 2021 Land Rover Discovery SUV is relatively high, but that's not really the problem. Instead, it's how closely priced it is to the larger Land Rover Range Rover Sport. The top-of-the-line Discovery P360 R-Dynamic HSE costs $68,900, while the price of the entry-level Range Rover Sport Turbo i6 MHEV SE is $69,500. For that reason, we'd recommend sticking with the P300 S base-model car, which sells for an MSRP of $53,900. You still get more than enough power, a luxurious cabin, and profound off-road ability.
The most popular competitors of 2021 Land Rover Discovery: