Land Rover takes the wraps off the Discovery Sport, a model that replaces the slow-selling LR2 small SUV.
With the new Discovery Sport, Land Rover says it sought to optimize interior packaging and design to maximize the interior volume of the 3-row SUV.
The interior features high-quality materials and a plush center console that reflects the exterior design, as well as an all-new 8-in. (20.3-cm) touchscreen infotainment system.
The cabin also offers four 12V power points and six USB charging sockets available in all three rows of seating.
Land Rover says the exterior design showcases “unprecedented care for details and refinement,” with a goal of offering an affordable premium SUV.
The Discovery Sport goes on sale in January with a starting price of £32,395 ($53,100) for the base-model SD4 trim level.
The SD4 will be offered with a new 2.0L turbocharged gasoline inline 4-cyl. engine producing 240 hp or a 2.2L turbodiesel making 188 hp with stop/start technology, high-pressure direct injection, low-friction internal components and regenerative charging.
Transmission choices include a 9-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Later in 2015, the company will add the fuel-efficient 2.2L diesel eD4 engine, which is expected to achieve over 47 mpg (5.0 L/100 km). The 2.2L eD4 model will start under £30,000 ($49,200).
“Our challenge has been to combine premium design with exceptional versatility; the two attributes must work in harmony,” Gerry McGovern, Land Rover design director, says in a statement.
The new Discovery Sport is 3.5 ins. (8.8 cm) longer and 3.1 ins. (7.8 cm) wider than its predecessor, the automaker says.
The SUV’s monocoque construction combines a mix of high-strength steel, ultra-high-strength boron steel and lightweight aluminum panels.
A new multi-link rear suspension and rear axle setup ensures the Discovery Sport is comfortable, refined and rewarding to drive on-road, while retaining off-road capability, Land Rover says.
The Discovery Sport also offers an array of safety systems, including a first-in-class pedestrian airbag and autonomous emergency braking.
