A touch of refinement

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

Land Rover has moved upmarket with its new Discovery 3, a more refined and capable on-road/off-road package than the outgoing four-wheel-drive model.

The price of the Discovery 3 reflects its high-tech design, flexible interior layout and all-new drivetrain: the base model seven-seater starts at $89,500 against the outgoing seven-seater's $72,500.

The differences between the two vehicles are immediately visible, highlighted by welcome changes to the interior:

* The driving position is better, as is the seating. So, too, is the expansive view from the wheel, a Discovery strength all along.

* Access to the roomier rear third row of seats is now via the second row and not the rear tailgate.

* The second row uses a similar stadium seating design but allows oodles more room for passengers, especially around the legs.

* Seats in the second and third row fold flat to provide a broad load space or sleeping room for two, while watching the stars through the standard sun roof and optional alpine roof.

* There is more storage space, enough cubby holes and cup holders for 17.5 litres of liquid.

* The tailgate is a two-piece design, rather than the outgoing model's large one-piece door with spare wheel attached. The only inconvenience is that the spare wheel is mounted under the rear of the vehicle, where most off-road enthusiasts don't want it.

The flexibility and roominess of the interior was a deliberate design ingredient. "The vehicle was designed from the inside out," said design director Geoff Upex. "Our priorities were cabin space, comfort, the driving position and elevated stadium seating in the rear."

The new model is clearly aimed at the on-road market. The wheelbase has been increased by more than 300mm, front and rear overhangs have been shortened, and the wheels are positioned more in the corners - geometry that aids handling and ride comfort.

A brief drive north of Sydney the other day shows its rack-and-pinion steering is more accurate than the outgoing model.

Also, despite its 2.7 tonnes, it feels more nimble and easier to position in traffic, where most high-end, four-wheel-drives spend their lives.

Handling is further helped by fully independent suspension and height adjustable air springs, similar to those used on the Range Rover.

But the Discovery 3 hasn't forgotten its roots. It comes with some serious off-road technology, including Land Rover's patented Terrain Response system, which optimises driveability and comfort, as well as maximising traction.

The driver chooses one of five terrain settings via a chunky rotary dial on the centre console: a general driving programme, plus one for slippery conditions (known as grass/gravel/snow) and three special off-road modes, namely mud and ruts, sand, and rock crawl.

Vehicle functions include ride height, engine torque response, Hill Descent Control (a Land Rover patent which limits downhill speed), Electronic Traction Control, transmission and differential settings. A lockable centre differential is standard; a lockable rear diff is a $1000 option.

The well-equipped Discovery 3 and its high-end Harmon Kardon audio system will go on sale in New Zealand next April in SE and premium HSE guise.

Two engines will be available: a 4.4-litre V8 delivering 220kW at 5500rpm and 425Nm of torque at 4000rpm and mated to a six-speed ZF automatic gearbox, and a 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel producing 140kW at 4000rpm and 440Nm at 1900rpm and mated to either the ZF automatic or a six-speed ZF manual. Maximum braked towing weight of both vehicles is 3.5 tonnes.

Prices are: V6 SE automatic and manual $89,500; V6 HSE automatic and manual $102,000; V8 SE automatic $97,500; V8 HSE automatic $110,000.