Land Rover Discovery (2009-2016) review - does it still make for a great 4x4? - Interior and Tech
The definitive 4x4 from Land Rover - if you can’t quite stretch to a Range Rover
Interior and Tech
The current Discovery can trace its roots back to 2004, though it has undergone several serious revisions since then. Notably inside, where the quality is now almost comparable to its Range Rover relations. There’s still a pleasing functionality to the cabin, the switches and dials all chunky and decisive in their operation, feeling like you could operate them with ease with thick gloves on. Utilitarian then, without being low-rent, though the touch-screen satnav and infotainment module - even in its most updated form - feels Speak&Spell in its operation rather than hi-def smartphone.
There’s loads of space as you might expect given its ample dimensions. Five can be sat in comfort easily, while the rear two seats - which stow away under the boot floor when not needed - are useable for shorter journeys with adults in them, though are better suited for children - not least because getting to them is a bit of a scramble.
Given it’s a rugged off-road machine it couldn’t be easier to drive, Land Rover’s Terrain Response simplicity itself. Press the buttons to best reflect what you’re planning on driving over and the Discovery sets itself up accordingly. The premium nature of it also means it’s available with high-end audio, parking cameras and all manner of connectivity, though start ticking the options boxes and the price heads north alarmingly quickly.
