Wednesday, September 03, 2014

Land Rover unveils new Discovery Sport

The car before you is result of all this futuristic thinking and although it doesn't boast the kind of sci-fi tech that had us drooling in the Big Apple, it has at least stayed true to the sleek styling of its concept sibling. Land Rover's spanking new Discovery Sport is set to replace the current Freelander when it goes on sale next year; therefore it is designed to handle the muddiest of country lanes and the steepest descents, while maintaining a whiff of luxury.

A new multi-link axle plus optimised Terrain Response software means its off-road abilities are more impressive than ever, with the computer deciding exactly the right amount of torque and traction to apply in a number of treacherous driving conditions. Inside, there's the same 5+2 seating Freelander customers have come to expect but general levels of refinement have been cranked up a few notches. There's also a shiny new 8-inch touch screen display that takes care of the vehicle's infotainment system.

Land Rover has worked in conjunction with Bosch SoftTec to ensure the new Discovery Sport is compatible with Android and Apple smartphones. A new suite of apps, dubbed InControl, allows users to tether their mobile devices and access a number of features on the move, including Parkopedia, Hotelseeker and more. The Land Rover InControl App also allows customers to summon a whole host of vehicle information, call for roadside assistance, locate the car in a packed car park and even track it should it be stolen. There's also the option to remotely check fuel levels and download journey details to save time when filling out expense forms.

Audiophiles can add a powerful, 17-speaker Meridian sound system, while seat-back entertainment can also be selected for those with deep pockets. Safety-wise, customers get Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Trailer Stability Assist for caravanning types. It's also the first Land Rover to come fitted with a pedestrian airbag.

It's a shame the Discovery Sport doesn't pack the same technological wow factor as the Vision Concept, we can only hope remote control driving and invisible bonnets become available as options in the near future.

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