Pretoria, South Africa, 26 July 2024 – This year marks a monumental milestone for Land Rover as it celebrates 35 years of the Discovery, the world’s most ingenious full-size seven-seat SUV. To commemorate this remarkable journey, Land Rover has unveiled a special 35th Anniversary Edition of the Discovery, showcasing its legacy of versatility, innovation, and unmatched capability.
Since its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1989, the Land Rover Discovery has set the benchmark for family SUVs, offering an exceptional blend of space, practicality, and cutting-edge technology. Over the years, it has become synonymous with versatility and all-round capability, catering to the needs of families and adventurers alike.
Powerful New Engine and Enhanced Specifications
A significant highlight of the 35th Anniversary Edition is the introduction of the powerful and efficient D350 diesel engine. The new 3.0-litre Ingenium six-cylinder diesel engine delivers an impressive 257kW, a 37kW increase over the previous D300 model. With a torque boost to 700Nm, the D350 can accelerate from 0-100km in just 6.3 seconds, making it six-tenths of a second faster than its predecessor. This powerful engine joins the existing P360 petrol model, providing customers with a choice of advanced propulsion systems that combine performance with efficiency.
In addition to the new engine, the Discovery range sees several specification enhancements designed to elevate comfort and convenience. All models, including the S, Dynamic SE, Dynamic HSE, and Metropolitan Edition, now come with powered adjustable seats featuring a driver memory function and an electrically adjustable steering column as standard. These upgrades ensure that every journey in the Discovery is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Celebratory Edition: A Tribute to Ingenuity and Adventure
The exclusive 35th Anniversary Edition stands out with its bespoke ‘XXXV’ badging and treadplates, celebrating the incredible journey of the Discovery since its launch. Inspired by the Metropolitan Edition, this special edition features Bright Atlas detailing on the grille and Discovery lettering, Hakuba Silver lower bumper inserts, 22-inch Diamond Turned alloy wheels with Gloss Grey detailing, black brake calipers, Privacy Glass, and a Sliding Panoramic Roof.
Inside the cabin, luxury and sophistication are paramount. The 35th Anniversary Edition boasts a Head-up Display, heated steering wheel, wireless device charging, a front cooler compartment, and four-zone climate control. The interior is further enhanced with Titanium Mesh trim detailing and a choice of Light Oyster and Ebony upholstery with extended Windsor leather colorways, ensuring a premium and comfortable environment for all occupants.
A Legacy of Innovation and Capability
Since its inception, the Discovery has been at the forefront of innovation and safety. It introduced industry-first Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE) technology in 1998, which used electronically controlled anti-roll bars to reduce body roll. A year later, it became the first SUV to feature twin airbags for front seat passengers. In 2004, JLR’s Terrain Response technology made its debut on the Discovery, further cementing its reputation for off-road capability.
The Discovery’s versatility extends beyond family adventures. It has proven itself in various demanding roles, such as with the Austrian Red Cross, which received a specially adapted Discovery Emergency Response Vehicle in 2018 to support search and rescue operations. Its towing prowess was showcased in 2017 when a production specification model pulled a 110-tonne road train for 16km in the Australian Outback.
Continued Excellence in Versatility and Comfort
The Discovery’s generous specification is further enhanced across the range with features designed to increase comfort and convenience. All models now include powered adjustable seats with driver memory function and an electrically adjustable steering column as standard. Discovery continues to be the most capable and versatile full-sized SUV, with all models offering a 3,500kg towing capacity and Advanced Tow Assist technology for stress-free reversing maneuvers.
Supported by Land Rover’s comprehensive range of accessories, including a ‘For Dogs’ pack for canine comfort and a ‘Biking Adventures’ pack for two-wheeled excursions, the Discovery remains the ultimate go-anywhere family SUV.
As Land Rover celebrates 35 years of the Discovery, the 35th Anniversary Edition stands as a testament to the SUV’s legacy of innovation, versatility, and capability. With its powerful new engine, enhanced specifications, and luxurious features, the Discovery continues to set the standard for family SUVs, turning everyday activities into exceptional experiences. Orders for the Discovery 35th Anniversary Edition are now open, with prices starting from R1,808,400 (OTR) in South Africa. For more information, visit www.landrover.co.za/discovery.
