Fifth-generation 2017 Land Rover Discovery full of surprises
As vehicles continue to become increasingly technology-driven, the upcoming fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery is about to debut a new world-first innovation: Intelligent Seat Fold Technology.
The redesigned 2017 full-size SUV has available seating for seven, and customers choosing the extra passenger capacity will get to use this unique feature that can electronically reconfigure the second and third rows straight from their Apple or Android smartphone.
By simply installing the Land Rover InControl Touch Pro companion app, users can rearrange the seats — like lay them flat — remotely using a few taps. As an example, this could be done while shopping to avoid fumbling awkwardly with latches in the parking lot afterwards to make room for fresh purchases.
All rows have optional heated seats, the first and second can be heated and cooled, and there is a massage function for occupants up front.
Similar to its smaller family member the F-PACE, the Discovery includes an “Activity Key” waterproof wristband that acts as the key fob. Adventurous types out swimming or hiking can leave the actual vehicle remote safely stowed inside the cabin and lock/unlock the doors by holding the band next to the rear tailgate.
The SUV is equally up to adventuring, receiving a second-gen Terrain Response 2 system that optimizes everything from throttle response to shift points depending on the mode selected such as Grass, Gravel & Snow, Mud & Ruts, Rock Crawl and more. Or, users can rotate the dial to Auto to have the computer determine the ideal settings for the environment.
At launch, two engines will be offered: a 340-horsepower 3.0-litre V6, as well as the 254 hp diesel V6 also found in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. Both are mated to the company’s signature ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.
Prices start at $61,500 (SE trim), topping out at an $82,500 First Edition model limited to 75 units in Canada, which comes with special badging, colours and an etched map on the aluminum trim of the doors and dashboard. The new Land Rover Discovery is slated to arrive mid-2017.
