The 2021 Land Rover Discovery arriving at dealers in February sports a new engine lineup, a redesigned electrical system, revised styling, a revamped interior that has more luxurious touches and, of course, a higher sticker price.
Jaguar Land Rover is continuing a retreat from diesel engines by dropping the option for the 2021 model year Discovery. In doing so, the British automaker walks away from one of the most fuel-efficient midsize SUVs as rated by the EPA — 26 highway, 21 city and 23 mpg combined.
The Discovery’s base engine is an Ingenium 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder rated at 296 hp. The only other engine available next year in the North American model Discovery is a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder with a mild-hybrid system. The 335-hp, six-cylinder is JLR’s own Ingenium engine. It replaces a Ford-built V-6 engine and severs one of the final ties between JLR and its former parent company.
It’s possible that either new engine could deliver class-leading fuel economy for less than the cost of the outgoing diesel. Fuel-economy ratings will be released closer to launch.
The Discovery received several tweaks that include redesigned LED headlights, a new front bumper, new side vents and redesigned taillights. Perhaps the biggest change is one consumers won’t see: the electrical system.
The new system powers two modems that allow for seamless streaming of software updates. Land Rover says the over-the-air updates cover as many as 44 electric modules. The center console was redesigned and houses an 11.4-inch screen, which is nearly 50 percent larger than the screen in the 2020 Discovery.
The 2021 Discovery S has a base price of $55,250 — up from the 2020 base price of $53,650. Three other 2021 models will be available: the 2.0 S R-Dynamic, priced at $57,750; the 3.0 S R-Dynamic, priced at $63,250; and the 3.0 HSE R-Dynamic with a sticker price of $70,250.
All prices include $1,350 for shipping.