The Land Rover Discovery Sport is a premium compact SUV that exemplifies the British automaker’s legacy of blending luxury with rugged versatility. Launched as a successor to the Freelander, the Discovery Sport has carved a niche for itself in the highly competitive luxury SUV market since its debut in 2014. With its sleek design, advanced technology, and exceptional off-road capabilities, this vehicle appeals to a diverse audience—ranging from urban families seeking comfort and space to adventure enthusiasts craving off-the-beaten-path experiences. Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the parent company, has consistently updated the model to keep it relevant, with the latest 2024 iteration bringing subtle yet meaningful enhancements. Available in both petrol and diesel powertrains, the Discovery Sport combines practicality with a premium driving experience, making it a standout option in its segment.
The Discovery Sport is more than just a stylish SUV; it’s a testament to Land Rover’s commitment to innovation and durability. Its 7-seater configuration, impressive ground clearance, and all-wheel-drive system make it a versatile choice for both city commutes and challenging terrains. In India, where the luxury SUV market is growing rapidly, the Discovery Sport competes with the likes of the Volvo XC60, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC, offering a unique blend of British elegance and go-anywhere capability. This detailed product overview will dive into its technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth exploration of its features, design, and competitive positioning.
Technical Specifications
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is equipped with modern engineering that ensures a balance of performance, efficiency, and comfort. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reputable automotive platforms like CarDekho, Zigwheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest 2024 model details.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L Turbo-Petrol / 2.0L Ingenium Diesel |
| Displacement | 1997 cc (Petrol) / 1999 cc (Diesel) |
| Max Power | 249 PS @ 5500 rpm (Petrol) / 204 PS @ 3750 rpm (Diesel) |
| Max Torque | 365 Nm @ 1300-4500 rpm (Petrol) / 430 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (Diesel) |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Diesel |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 13.1 kmpl (Petrol) / 19.4 kmpl (Diesel) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 Litres |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Length | 4600 mm |
| Width | 2173 mm |
| Height | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2741 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 212 mm (Unladen) |
| Kerb Weight | 1866 kg (Petrol) / 1944 kg (Diesel) |
| Boot Space | 212 Litres (7 seats up) / 980 Litres (5 seats) |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Integral Link with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Disc |
| Tyre Size | 235/55 R19 |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 kmph (Claimed) |
| Acceleration (0-100 kmph) | 7.8 sec (Petrol) / 8.9 sec (Diesel) |
These specifications highlight the Discovery Sport’s capability to deliver robust performance while maintaining efficiency, a hallmark of Land Rover’s engineering prowess.
Variants
The 2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport is available in a streamlined lineup in India, focusing on a fully loaded variant with options for both petrol and diesel engines. Below is a table detailing the variants.
| Variant | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic SE (Petrol) | 2.0L Turbo-Petrol | 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment, panoramic roof, 19-inch alloys, 7 airbags |
| Dynamic SE (Diesel) | 2.0L Ingenium Diesel | Same as Petrol variant with diesel-specific tuning for higher torque |
Unlike some competitors that offer multiple trims, Land Rover has opted for a single, feature-rich Dynamic SE variant, ensuring buyers get a premium experience regardless of the powertrain choice.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Land Rover Discovery Sport varies slightly across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. The following table provides the on-road prices for the Dynamic SE variant (Petrol and Diesel) as of March 17, 2025, based on data from CarDekho and CarWale.
| City | Dynamic SE Petrol (On-Road Price) | Dynamic SE Diesel (On-Road Price) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹78.28 Lakh | ₹79.98 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹80.12 Lakh | ₹81.85 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹82.45 Lakh | ₹84.22 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹81.67 Lakh | ₹83.42 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹78.57 Lakh | ₹78.57 Lakh |
| Hyderabad | ₹81.23 Lakh | ₹82.97 Lakh |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealer offers, additional accessories, and taxes. The ex-showroom price starts at ₹67.90 Lakh for both variants.
About Land Rover Discovery Sport
Design and Styling
The Land Rover Discovery Sport boasts a design that seamlessly blends sophistication with ruggedness. The 2024 update introduces subtle refinements, including an all-black glossy mesh grille, updated LED headlamps, and sleek 21-inch alloy wheels (optional in some markets, with 19-inch standard in India). The exterior exudes a muscular yet aerodynamic stance, with a length of 4600 mm and a width of 2173 mm, giving it a commanding road presence. The signature clamshell bonnet, sharp character lines, and a slightly sloping roofline enhance its visual appeal, while the five color options—Fuji White, Santorini Black, Firenze Red, Eiger Grey, and Varesine Blue—cater to diverse tastes.
Inside, the cabin reflects Land Rover’s focus on luxury and functionality. The most notable upgrade is the 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system, which replaces physical buttons with a sleek, curved glass interface. The dashboard layout is minimalist yet premium, featuring high-quality materials like leather upholstery with contrast stitching. The fully digital driver’s display, new gear selector, and third-row climate control add to the modern appeal. With a 7-seater layout, the Discovery Sport offers flexibility, though the third row is best suited for children or short trips due to limited legroom.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Discovery Sport offers two potent engine options. The 2.0L turbo-petrol engine delivers 249 PS and 365 Nm of torque, providing brisk acceleration (0-100 kmph in 7.8 seconds) and a refined driving experience. The 2.0L Ingenium diesel engine, producing 204 PS and 430 Nm, excels in low-end torque, making it ideal for off-road adventures and long highway cruises. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, ensuring seamless power delivery and excellent traction across varied conditions.
The SUV’s off-road credentials are bolstered by features like Terrain Response 2, which adjusts throttle response, gear shifts, and traction control based on the surface—be it mud, sand, or snow. With a ground clearance of 212 mm and a wading depth of 600 mm, the Discovery Sport can tackle water crossings and rough trails with ease. On-road, the suspension setup—MacPherson struts at the front and an integral link at the rear—offers a plush ride, though some critics note it feels less agile than rivals like the BMW X3 in tight corners.
Features and Technology
The Discovery Sport is packed with cutting-edge features that elevate its appeal. The Pivi Pro infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging, ensuring seamless connectivity. Other highlights include a panoramic glass roof, 12-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory, 3D surround view camera, and ClearSight ground view, which provides a virtual view beneath the vehicle—perfect for off-roading. Safety is top-notch, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, seven airbags, ABS with EBD, hill descent control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Comfort and Practicality
The Discovery Sport shines as a family-oriented SUV. The front and second-row seats offer ample space and support, with dual-zone climate control maintaining a comfortable cabin environment. The third row, while cramped for adults, adds versatility for occasional use. Boot space is modest at 212 litres with all seats up but expands to 980 litres with the third row folded, making it practical for weekend getaways. Additional storage compartments, cup holders, and a powered tailgate enhance everyday usability.
Driving Experience
Driving the Discovery Sport is a balanced affair. In urban settings, its compact dimensions (relative to larger Land Rovers) make it manageable, though the wide body can feel cumbersome in tight traffic. On highways, the engines deliver smooth power, and the cabin remains well-insulated from road noise. Off-road, the SUV’s AWD system and high ground clearance inspire confidence, allowing drivers to explore terrains where competitors might falter. However, fuel efficiency—13.1 kmpl for petrol and 19.4 kmpl for diesel—lags behind some rivals, a trade-off for its performance and capability.
Maintenance and Ownership
Owning a Land Rover comes with a premium price tag, not just in purchase cost but also in maintenance. Service intervals are typically every 15,000 km or annually, but the availability of spares and service centers in India can be a challenge outside major metros. Owners often report long wait times for parts, and repair costs are higher than those for German competitors. JLR offers a 5-year warranty in some markets, though in India, it’s standard at 3 years or 1,00,000 km, extendable with additional packages.
Close Competitors
The luxury compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, and the Land Rover Discovery Sport faces stiff rivalry from several established players. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest competitors:
Volvo XC60
The Volvo XC60, priced at ₹69.90 Lakh (ex-showroom), is a strong contender with its Scandinavian design and safety-focused approach. It offers a 2.0L mild-hybrid petrol engine (254 PS, 350 Nm) and a plush interior with features like a 9-inch touchscreen and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system. The XC60 excels in comfort and fuel efficiency (up to 22 kmpl), but its 5-seater layout and limited off-road capability make it less versatile than the Discovery Sport.
BMW X3
The BMW X3, starting at ₹68.50 Lakh, is renowned for its sporty handling and premium cabin. Available in petrol (252 PS) and diesel (190 PS) variants, it offers a more dynamic on-road experience than the Discovery Sport. However, its ground clearance of 204 mm and lack of a 7-seater option limit its appeal for off-road enthusiasts and larger families. The X3’s tech suite, including a 12.3-inch infotainment system, rivals the Discovery Sport’s offerings.
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Priced from ₹75.45 Lakh, the Mercedes-Benz GLC brings unmatched luxury with its 2.0L petrol (258 PS) and diesel (194 PS) engines. Its interior is a step above the Discovery Sport in terms of opulence, featuring a 10.25-inch MBUX system and ambient lighting. While it offers AWD, its off-road prowess is less pronounced, and it sticks to a 5-seater configuration, making the Discovery Sport a better pick for practicality.
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 (₹65.51 Lakh) combines sleek design with a 2.0L TFSI petrol engine (265 PS, 370 Nm) and Quattro AWD. It matches the Discovery Sport in tech, with a 10.1-inch MMI system and virtual cockpit, but its softer suspension prioritizes comfort over off-road ability. Like its German peers, it lacks a third row, positioning the Discovery Sport as a more family-friendly option.
Comparison Insights
The Discovery Sport’s unique selling points are its 7-seater versatility, superior off-road capability, and rugged charm, which set it apart from the more road-focused German trio (X3, GLC, Q5). The Volvo XC60 edges out in safety and efficiency but lacks the same level of adaptability. Price-wise, the Discovery Sport’s ₹67.90 Lakh starting point is competitive, though its higher maintenance costs and lower fuel economy are drawbacks compared to rivals.
Final Thoughts!
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on versatility. Its blend of premium features, robust performance, and off-road prowess makes it a jack-of-all-trades in a segment dominated by road-biased competitors. While it may not match the BMW X3’s agility or the Mercedes GLC’s interior refinement, its 7-seater layout and ability to conquer tough terrains give it an edge for adventure-seeking families. Priced competitively in metro cities, it offers a distinct British flair that resonates with those who value heritage and capability over sheer efficiency. For 2025, the Discovery Sport remains a strong contender, proving that luxury and practicality can coexist harmoniously in a compact package. Whether navigating Mumbai’s bustling streets or exploring the trails of the Western Ghats, this SUV delivers an experience that’s as refined as it is resilient.
