Rather than making drastic changes, the Discovery 4, known as the LR4 in North America and the Middle East, was a continuation of the Discovery 3 (LR3). Land Rover introduced the Discovery “Disco” at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1989. “Nobody could have predicted the impact this ostensibly niche British vehicle would have on the future of car design for decades to come.” [Source]
Today most every car manufacturer offers a family 4×4. However, at the time it was an entirely novel concept. And it would end up providing a much needed lifeline for Land Rover – bringing in a growing market of family and lifestyle enthusiasts attracted to true 4×4 SUVs.
An iconic car company, Land Rover was facing financial difficulty. By the early 1980s Land Rover was losing money. Competition was fierce. Still, “there was nothing quite like a Land Rover and this fact had cemented itself into customers’ minds.” [Source]
The Camel Trophy was started by 3 friends as a real-world test of endurance, survival, and team spirit. It grew into a competition with teams from around the world competing for the title. Land Rover became the official vehicle supplier in 1981. From then on, Camel Trophy gained fame for using near-stock Land Rovers in some of the world’s harshest environments.
For 2010 Land Rover released their new Lr4 powered by the Jaguar 5.0L V8 AJ133 engine. It’s an enthusiast’s engine. When well-maintained, this engine can run smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles. (Note: The timing chain is a service item on this engine.)
Offering an improved power of 375HP and 375 lb-ft of torque. It is an extremely refined V8 with a linear power output and instant throttle response. By 2014 the LR4 switched to the SCV6, marking the end of the gasoline V8 in the Disco.
The LR4 came with an improved version of the ZF six-speed transmission (2010-2013). Tuned for smooth acceleration, it pairs well with the power delivery of the V8 engine, and optimizes torque for the terrain response modes. The AJ133 aluminum block is engineered for good heat management, with precision-cast coolant galleries and has proven durable in the high heat climates of the Sahara and Australian outback. In 2014 it came with the ZF eight-speed. ZF transmissions have a well known reputation for longevity and are used in BMWs, Mercedes and even Royals-Royce. In short it’s a solid engine and transmission.
Land Rover’s one mistake with the LR4 were the factory service intervals. At the time car manufacturers were competing for the fleet market. As a result, to lower cost of ownership some auto makers set longer service maintenance intervals. Land Rover specialists and enthusiasts report significantly improved durability by simply shortening the oil service intervals to 7,500 miles and the transmission service to 60,000 miles.
The Lr3 was released in 2003 to 2009. This marked a significant change from the Discovery 2 and Discovery 1. It combined a ladder frame chassis with a monocoque body. Making for a very strong vehicle. Land Rover pushed the envelope introducing independent air suspension. A marked improvement for towing and on-road handling, auto-leveling based on tongue and load weight. And has since proven both surprisingly reliable and versatile for off-road driving.
Land Rover got it right with the LR3.
The traction control system was years – if not decades – ahead of its time. It was the first vehicle in the world to be offered with Terrain Response modes. It wasn’t a gimmick. The Terrain Response is a remarkably clever system. You can set it in different modes such as “Sand”, “Grass, Gravel & Snow”, “Mud & Ruts” and “Rock Crawl”. The modes adjust the throttle response of the engine, the torque vectoring of the transmission, the height and valves of the suspension, and how the traction control engages the brakes and the diff lock(s).
When in sand, for example, power delivery is reduced until the vehicle gains traction, then additional power and slip is delivered. Whereas in “Rock Crawl” the valves open between the air suspension. When one wheel lifts, the air is pushed to the opposing wheel forcing it down – increasing articulation.
The 4X4 academy Military Mobility did an interesting comparison of coil sprung suspension versus air suspension and the results are surprising.
An optional Heavy Duty package was available which included a rear locking differential. Different years of the LR3/LR4 introduced minor refinements to the traction control system. Some LR3/LR4s come with a 3-stage rear locking differential. It’s different from mechanical locking differential. It allows the system to engage the differential in 3 stages, simulating a limited slip, to a fully locked differential, based on conditions. The differential clutch engagement is silky smooth, nearly instantaneous, and entirely unnoticeable by the driver.
The LR3 comes with a very good 4.4L V8 offering 300 HP. Rather than introducing a new platform, the LR4 is a continuation of the LR3. Along with additional power, it comes with a refined interior. The HSE LUX model has Range Rover quality leather interior. And in 2012 it comes with an upgraded infotainment/nav system that included bluetooth.
One other improvement high trim LR’s4 received was a leather-upholstered dashboard. The LR3 dashboard has a known-cracking issue in hot/cold climates. Land Rover improved the materials with more durable vinyl and leather in the LR4.
The LUX version came with an optional 360 degree camera view. Which also enables tow-assist designed to make reversing a trailer significantly easier. It uses cameras, on-screen guidance lines, and steering angle sensors to help you reverse a trailer accurately. You have to input the trailer dimensions, then the system will determine the articulation angle and steering angles accordingly. All LR4s also came with Trailer Stability Assist, designed to mitigate sway.
Arguably, the part that makes the Disco iconic is the raised passenger roof and staged seating. Which gives all occupants a clear view of the scenery while driving. The best part is that all rear seats are independent and can fold flat. Providing a perfectly level sleeping area with 3 moon roofs for star gazing.
The LR4 is not perfect for everyone and it’s not trying to be. And that may be its best quality. Quietly conquering obstacles, carrying families or towing trailers – without claiming greatness – only proving it, one mile at a time.
