2017 Land Rover Discovery: A Comprehensive Review

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Land Rover Discovery, a vehicle that has a rich history and a reputation for off-road prowess. This model year marked a significant shift in the Discovery's design and engineering, so let's get into the nitty-gritty and see what makes it tick. We'll explore everything from its rugged capabilities to its luxurious interior and tech features. Ready? Let's go!

Unveiling the Redesigned 2017 Land Rover Discovery

Alright, guys, let's start with a little background. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery was a total revamp. It ditched the boxy, iconic design of its predecessors for a more modern, streamlined look. This was a bold move, and it definitely got people talking. Land Rover wanted to blend its off-road heritage with a more contemporary aesthetic, aiming to appeal to a wider audience. The result? A vehicle that looks great in the city but is still ready to tackle any trail. This redesign wasn't just about looks, though. It also brought some serious upgrades in terms of technology, comfort, and performance. The goal was simple: to create a premium SUV that could do it all. Did they succeed? Well, that's what we're here to find out. The new Discovery was built on a lighter, more rigid platform, which improved handling and fuel efficiency. This was a big win for those who wanted a capable SUV without sacrificing everyday practicality. The interior also got a major upgrade, with a focus on luxury and space. Land Rover wanted to make sure that the Discovery was as comfortable on long road trips as it was navigating tough terrain. And, of course, they packed it with all the latest tech gadgets to keep everyone entertained and connected. This model year was all about taking the Discovery into the future while still respecting its roots. This involved a complete transformation. From the exterior styling to the interior layout and the technological features, Land Rover pulled out all the stops to create a vehicle that would make a statement in the competitive SUV market. This was more than just an update; it was a reimagining of what the Discovery could be. This ensured that it could compete with the best in the class while still retaining its unique identity and appeal. So, if you're looking for a versatile SUV that combines luxury, capability, and modern design, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is definitely worth a closer look.

Exploring the Interior and Features of the 2017 Discovery

Okay, let's jump inside, shall we? The 2017 Land Rover Discovery offered a seriously luxurious interior. Land Rover really focused on creating a premium experience, using high-quality materials and a thoughtful design. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. Seriously, guys, this thing is massive! The seats are comfortable, even on long journeys, and the layout is intuitive and user-friendly. One of the standout features of the Discovery is its versatile seating configuration. It comes standard with seven seats, which is a huge plus for families or anyone who needs extra passenger space. And the best part? The second and third-row seats can be folded flat electronically, giving you a ton of cargo room when you need it. The infotainment system in the 2017 Discovery is pretty slick too. It features a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration. It's not the newest system out there, but it's still pretty functional and easy to use. The Discovery also comes packed with a bunch of other cool features. Think things like a panoramic sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light, a premium sound system for audiophiles, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems to keep you safe on the road. The interior design is all about creating a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The materials used, like leather and wood trim, give it a premium feel, and the attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin. Land Rover really wanted to make sure that the Discovery felt like a special place to be. With the spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, and a host of tech and luxury features, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery's interior is a major selling point. Whether you're hauling kids to soccer practice or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Discovery's interior is designed to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. The focus on comfort, convenience, and technology makes it a standout in its class. From the high-quality materials to the well-thought-out layout, every aspect of the interior is designed to enhance the driving experience. So, if you value a spacious, luxurious, and well-equipped interior, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery will not disappoint.

Performance and Capability: Taking the 2017 Discovery Off-Road

Alright, let's talk about what the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is really known for: its off-road capability. This thing is a beast when the pavement ends. Land Rover has always been synonymous with off-road prowess, and the 2017 Discovery is no exception. It's equipped with a suite of features designed to tackle the toughest terrain. First off, it has Land Rover's legendary Terrain Response system. This allows you to select different driving modes optimized for various surfaces like grass, gravel, snow, mud, and sand. Basically, it does the hard work for you, adjusting the engine, transmission, and suspension to provide optimal traction and control. The Discovery also boasts impressive ground clearance and approach/departure angles, which means it can clear obstacles that would leave other SUVs stuck. And if that's not enough, it has a sophisticated air suspension system that can raise or lower the vehicle to further enhance its off-road capabilities. This is particularly useful when navigating rocky trails or fording water. Under the hood, the 2017 Discovery offers a choice of powerful engines. You could get it with a supercharged V6 or a diesel engine, both of which provide plenty of power and torque for both on-road and off-road driving. The transmission is smooth and responsive, delivering power to all four wheels. Of course, the Discovery also has all the other features you'd expect from a capable off-roader, like a robust four-wheel-drive system, hill descent control, and a low-range transfer case. These features work together to give you the confidence to tackle even the most challenging trails. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery isn't just about off-road capability, though; it also offers a comfortable and refined on-road experience. The suspension system does a great job of absorbing bumps and potholes, and the cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise. So, whether you're cruising down the highway or exploring a remote trail, the Discovery delivers a versatile and enjoyable driving experience. From its advanced Terrain Response system to its impressive ground clearance and powerful engines, the 2017 Discovery is a true off-road champion. This is a vehicle that's built to handle whatever you throw at it. For those who love to explore the great outdoors or just want the peace of mind that comes with knowing your SUV can handle anything, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is a fantastic choice.

Tech and Safety: Features of the 2017 Land Rover Discovery

Now, let's talk about the tech and safety features that came with the 2017 Land Rover Discovery. Land Rover packed this SUV with a bunch of cool gadgets and safety systems to make your driving experience both enjoyable and secure. The infotainment system, while not the newest on the market, still provided a decent level of functionality. It featured a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration, so you could easily connect your phone and access your favorite apps. You'd find features like Bluetooth connectivity, a premium sound system for those who love their tunes, and a host of USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged. On the safety front, the 2017 Discovery was well-equipped. It came with a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. Features like adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and lane departure warning, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane, were available. You could also find things like blind-spot monitoring, which helps you avoid collisions when changing lanes, and a rearview camera to make parking and maneuvering easier. The Discovery also included a comprehensive airbag system and a strong safety cage to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These features worked together to provide a high level of safety and security. While the tech might not be as cutting-edge as the latest models, it still offered a solid package of features that enhanced both convenience and safety. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery's tech and safety features provided a well-rounded package. They're designed to enhance your driving experience while keeping you and your passengers safe. For those who appreciate advanced technology and peace of mind, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is a compelling choice. This ensures that you're well-connected and protected on every journey. This SUV delivers a balance of luxury, capability, and safety.

Driving Experience and Handling of the 2017 Land Rover Discovery

Alright, let's get into the driving experience of the 2017 Land Rover Discovery. How does it actually feel behind the wheel? Well, it's a mix of luxury and capability, guys. On the road, the Discovery offers a comfortable and refined ride. The suspension does a great job of soaking up bumps and imperfections, making long journeys a breeze. The steering is responsive and precise, which makes it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. You'll find it handles well for such a large SUV. It doesn't feel overly cumbersome or unwieldy. The available engines provide plenty of power, with brisk acceleration and smooth performance. Whether you opt for the supercharged V6 or the diesel engine, you'll have ample power for merging onto highways and overtaking slower vehicles. And when you get off the beaten path, the Discovery really shines. The Terrain Response system and other off-road features work seamlessly to provide exceptional traction and control. It's a confident off-roader, capable of handling challenging terrain with ease. The air suspension system further enhances its off-road abilities, allowing you to raise or lower the vehicle to clear obstacles. The 2017 Discovery offers a driving experience that's both enjoyable and capable. It provides a comfortable on-road experience while still being able to tackle tough trails. For those who value a versatile and enjoyable driving experience, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is a great choice. It delivers a blend of luxury, power, and off-road capability. This makes the Discovery a vehicle you'll look forward to driving every day, whether you're navigating city streets or exploring remote landscapes.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View of the 2017 Discovery

Okay, let's take a look at the good and the not-so-good of the 2017 Land Rover Discovery. Every car has its strengths and weaknesses, right? Let's break it down.

Pros:

  • Off-Road Prowess: The Discovery is exceptionally capable off-road, thanks to its Terrain Response system, ground clearance, and other features. This makes it perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Luxurious Interior: The interior is beautifully designed, with high-quality materials and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It offers a premium feel.
  • Versatile Seating: The available seven-seat configuration is a huge plus, offering flexibility for families or those who need extra passenger space.
  • Powerful Engines: The available engines provide plenty of power and smooth performance, both on and off the road.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension system delivers a comfortable and refined ride, even on rough roads.

Cons:

  • Infotainment System: The infotainment system, while functional, might feel a bit dated compared to some of its competitors. It's not the most modern system out there.
  • Potential Reliability Concerns: Land Rovers, in general, have a reputation for potential reliability issues, which can be a concern for some buyers.
  • Fuel Economy: Fuel economy isn't the best in its class, especially with the more powerful engines.
  • Price: The Discovery can be expensive, particularly when loaded with options. It's a premium SUV, and the price reflects that.

Overall, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is an excellent SUV with a lot to offer. Its strengths lie in its off-road capability, luxurious interior, and versatile seating. The infotainment system might feel a bit dated, and there are some potential reliability concerns. Weighing these pros and cons is essential to determine if this SUV is the right choice for you. The Discovery delivers a combination of luxury and capability, but it's essential to consider these factors. From its off-road prowess to its luxurious interior, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery brings a lot to the table, but it's not without its drawbacks. Make sure you consider your needs and priorities before making a decision.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2017 Land Rover Discovery Right for You?

So, after everything we've covered, is the 2017 Land Rover Discovery right for you? Well, it depends on what you're looking for, of course. If you value off-road capability, a luxurious interior, and versatile seating, then the Discovery is definitely worth considering. It's a capable and comfortable SUV that can handle both city streets and rugged trails. However, if you prioritize fuel economy or are concerned about potential reliability issues, you might want to consider other options. The infotainment system, while functional, isn't the most modern, so that might be a factor for some. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery is a fantastic SUV that combines luxury, capability, and versatility. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a premium SUV that can do it all. Its off-road prowess, luxurious interior, and versatile seating make it a standout in its class. For the right buyer, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is a compelling choice. If you're looking for an SUV that can handle any adventure while providing a comfortable and luxurious experience, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery is definitely worth checking out. Weigh the pros and cons, and see if it fits your needs and budget. But if you value adventure, comfort, and a touch of luxury, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery might be the perfect SUV for you. Happy driving, everyone!