Review: 2025 Land Rover Discovery Metroplitan Edition
The Forgotten Hero?
Once the saviour of Land Rover, the Discovery is now the forgotten middle child, awkwardly wedged between the Defender’s rugged charm and the Range Rover’s posh appeal. Back in the day, the Discovery was the go-to 4x4 for families, farmers, and overlanders alike. But with the new Defender stealing the limelight and the Range Rover keeping the luxury crowd happy, where does the Discovery stand in 2025? Time to find out.
On-Road Ride & Handling
Driving the Discovery on tarmac is a curious experience. It’s undeniably comfortable, wafting along motorways like a luxury barge. The air suspension does a cracking job of smoothing out the bumps, and the cabin is whisper-quiet at speed. But chuck it down a B-road, and that hefty kerb weight starts to make itself known. It’s not wallowy, per se, but there’s a definite sense that this is a big old bus. That said, steering is light yet precise, and while body roll is well-contained, you’re always aware of its size. Thankfully it’s nowhere as near as bad as the new Toyota 250 Land Cruiser I recently had for on-road manners!
Despite having a 3.0 litre 6-cylinder churning out 350bhp, compared to the BMW X5 or Audi Q7, the Discovery feels more relaxed, less about ‘sporty dynamics’ and more about effortless cruising. And frankly, that’s fine, it suits the character of the thing. But if you’re after a sharp, engaging drive, a Range Rover Sport might serve you better. That said, it’s no slouch.
How fuel efficient is it? I averaged mid 30s, so quite good, really.
Off-Road Capability
This is where the Discovery still shines. Stick it in the rough stuff, and it proves it hasn’t forgotten its roots. Terrain Response 2 works a treat, optimising grip for everything from deep mud to rocky inclines. With a wading depth of 900mm and proper low-range gearing, the Disco will get you through gnarly ‘lanes that most luxury SUVs wouldn’t dare attempt. Seriously, it was a joy to take ‘laning, and whether it was on all four, three or even its two opposing wheels, the Discovery made the most gnarly lanes seem like an ASDA carpark. My only problem was with its mighty girth, as on a couple of occasions I found myself reversing and performing a u-turn as it wouldn’t fit through some gateposts.
Interior Spec & Comfort
Inside, the Discovery remains a lovely place to be. Leather, wood, and metal accents give it a premium feel, though some hard plastics sneak in where you wouldn’t expect them. Seats are superb, supportive, comfortable, and adjustable in many ways imaginable. And the massaging feature was a dream after a long day exploring our ancient right of ways. Rear passenger space is excellent, and the third-row seats are genuinely usable for adults (unlike the Audi Q7’s token gesture seats).
Infotainment-wise, there’s a large curved touchscreen that dominates the centre console, and fear not, it’s slick, responsive, and feature-packed.
I’m also happy to report that all heater controls, included heated and cooled seat controls are via the chunky dials below the touchscreen - 10/10.
Practicality – Will It Swallow All Your Tat?
If you need a cavernous boot, the Discovery delivers. With all seven seats in place, there’s still enough room for a few bags of shopping. Fold the third row down, and you get a van-like 1,137 litres of space. Drop the second row, and it turns into a furniture-hauling monster with over 2,400 litres of room.
Loading a muddy dog? Easy. The boot lip is low, and there’s even an air suspension button to lower the rear further, a godsend for short-legged pooches. Camping gear, bikes, or whatever other junk you lug around? No problem, you even get a shelf for sitting on while drinking a cuppa at the end of a long green-laning day.
Guess what? It has an optional full size 22” spare wheel with jack and wheel brace - it’s a £1,010 extra cost, but worthwhile.
Verdict: The Middle Child Syndrome
The Discovery is still a brilliant all-rounder. It’s comfortable, spacious, and effortlessly capable both on and off-road. But it’s lost some of its old charm. The Defender has stolen the ‘rugged, go-anywhere’ mantle, while the Range Rover continues to set the luxury standard. That leaves the Discovery in a bit of an identity crisis.
Would I have one? if I needed seven seats, proper off-road ability, and a luxurious cabin, absolutely. However, it’s still a bit too posh for me, it’s also a little too fat to squeeze through some gate posts that are scattered along our ancient Rights of Ways!
The Discovery: still a hero, just a bit forgotten.
