What We Like
Timeless exterior design
Comfortable and premium interior
Impeccable ride quality
Punchy 2.0-litre diesel engine
What We Dislike
Not the most refined diesel unit on the market, especially in the noise department
Let's say that your vehicular space-needs have increased, and you are in the market for a seven-seater Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). What are your options? At the lower end of the price spectrum, you can choose among the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Kia Sorento, the Mitsubishi Outlander and the likes. But what if you are looking for a step up brand-wise and want something more premium, but don't want to take the huge financial step up that your full-size Audi, BMW or Merc requires?
Well, you have the Land Rover Discovery Sport. In its compact SUV segment, the Disco Sport is the only one that offers the option of seven seats. Now, you have the option of an even more affordable alternative - this Discovery Sport Diesel.
A diesel engine?
Yes, the Disco Sport can now be had with a 2.0-litre turbocharged TD4 Ingenium engine, also featured on the Jaguar XE. It puts out 148bhp and 380Nm of torque, more than capable of propelling the 1,844kg vehicle with relative ease. Being a diesel, it has a punchy low end that is adept for getting up to speed, as well as overtaking manoeuvres.
The main criticism we have with the engine is that it is lacking in the refinement department, particularly in terms of noise. The low-end diesel clatter is definitely there. When you put your foot down, you'll experience the rush of torque, but the sound that accompanies it isn't a pleasant one. But we suspect most owners won't really worry too much about this - the kids in the back will probably be making such a din that you can't hear the engine anyway.
Of course, the upside of a diesel is better fuel economy - we achieved about 15km/L, an improvement of 2.8km/L over the petrol variant.
What about the rest of the car?
Visually, the Disco Sport has a timeless appeal. It's not super flashy or striking, but has an overall visual coherence and elegance that has aged well over the two years that it has been on our roads. This diesel variant doesn't change the car's aesthetics one bit.
Well, you have the Land Rover Discovery Sport. In its compact SUV segment, the Disco Sport is the only one that offers the option of seven seats. Now, you have the option of an even more affordable alternative - this Discovery Sport Diesel.
A diesel engine?
Yes, the Disco Sport can now be had with a 2.0-litre turbocharged TD4 Ingenium engine, also featured on the Jaguar XE. It puts out 148bhp and 380Nm of torque, more than capable of propelling the 1,844kg vehicle with relative ease. Being a diesel, it has a punchy low end that is adept for getting up to speed, as well as overtaking manoeuvres.
The main criticism we have with the engine is that it is lacking in the refinement department, particularly in terms of noise. The low-end diesel clatter is definitely there. When you put your foot down, you'll experience the rush of torque, but the sound that accompanies it isn't a pleasant one. But we suspect most owners won't really worry too much about this - the kids in the back will probably be making such a din that you can't hear the engine anyway.
Of course, the upside of a diesel is better fuel economy - we achieved about 15km/L, an improvement of 2.8km/L over the petrol variant.
What about the rest of the car?
Visually, the Disco Sport has a timeless appeal. It's not super flashy or striking, but has an overall visual coherence and elegance that has aged well over the two years that it has been on our roads. This diesel variant doesn't change the car's aesthetics one bit.
Engine aside, it's all basically the same - both diesel and petrol variants are offered in SE trim, which means you get all the same equipment and goodies. The interior is comfortable, relatively spacious and feels premium. Yes, the third bench is best served to be used occasionally rather than regularly, but it's still an entirely practical seven-seater SUV. It'll do everything you need an SUV for - daily school runs, grocery shopping on the weekend, fetching the kids to Sunday soccer, even the occasional foray to Malaysia.
On the roads, the ride comfort is impeccable. The car soaks up bumps effortlessly, and makes for an always pleasant drive. The steering is also quite light, which helps to disguise the overall size of the car. Of course, the Discovery Sport is also packed chock-full with the best in off-roading capabilities - definitely useful if you join the brand on its off-road drives overseas, as we did.
So wherein lies the difference?
Ultimately, it will come down to price. This diesel model will appeal to the more budget-conscious - it's cheaper to buy and cheaper to run. Buying the Disco Sport Diesel will set you back $196,999 (as of 30th June 2017).
If you're looking for a compact luxury SUV that packs seven seats, this Disco Sport Diesel is pretty much the most affordable choice you've got. The diesel engine isn't without its flaws, but then again, considering the cost savings you will have, the sub-$200k pricepoint is certainly an appealing one.
On the roads, the ride comfort is impeccable. The car soaks up bumps effortlessly, and makes for an always pleasant drive. The steering is also quite light, which helps to disguise the overall size of the car. Of course, the Discovery Sport is also packed chock-full with the best in off-roading capabilities - definitely useful if you join the brand on its off-road drives overseas, as we did.
So wherein lies the difference?
Ultimately, it will come down to price. This diesel model will appeal to the more budget-conscious - it's cheaper to buy and cheaper to run. Buying the Disco Sport Diesel will set you back $196,999 (as of 30th June 2017).
If you're looking for a compact luxury SUV that packs seven seats, this Disco Sport Diesel is pretty much the most affordable choice you've got. The diesel engine isn't without its flaws, but then again, considering the cost savings you will have, the sub-$200k pricepoint is certainly an appealing one.
