The new Discovery handles so well; it's a night-and-day improvement over the previous generation. Steering is more responsive with greater driver feel. We were very impressed with the optional Active Cornering Enhancement system. With the reduced body lean, driving down winding roads was pleasant with crisp response -- in spite of our heavily laden condition. (Ordered without ACE, the Discovery still offers vastly improved handling over the previous version.)
The revised engine delivers more torque than last year (251 foot-pounds at 2,600 rpm -- an 18-pound increase). There's also a noticeable improvement in braking performance, a benefit of the 4-channel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution.
A leader in off-road prowess, the Discovery Series II offers exceptional wheel travel with excellent articulation. So when the left front wheel drops into a big hole, the right rear wheel is less likely to lift off the ground. Discovery features a high ground clearance (8.2 inches under the front axle), generous angles of approach and departure, and is capable of wading through 20 inches of water.
It can tow a 5,500-pound trailer and comes with an integral Class III tow hitch receiver. With the Self Leveling Suspension, a hand-held control gave us the ability to lower the rear of the Series II up to 4 inches, which made loading gear into the cargo area and connecting the trailer much easier. We used the SLS switch on the instrument panel to raise the rear of the Series II by 1.6 inches for off-road forays. Hill Descent Control was a Godsend on treacherous downhill sections.
The Land Rover Discovery Series II still provides the ultimate in off-road capability. And now it offers truly refined on-road handling. The interior is roomier and much more user friendly. New technology makes it one of the most advanced vehicles in the compact sport-utility segment.
The Discovery is priced lower than many people realize. It should be on the shopping list for anyone who wants distinctive styling, off-road capability and panache.
