Land Rover unveiled today the Discovery Sport, the model set to replace the ageing Freelander. The official photos reveal a new design language, heavily inspired by the current Evoque.
The compact SUV was designed and engineered at the Land Rover Development Center in the UK and can offer up to seven seats inside the cabin, thanks to a 2741 mm wheelbase.
The exterior design features a two-bar grille with hexagonal mesh, large outboard air intakes, LED fog lamps in the front bumper, slim, wraparound headlamps, rising beltline and robust wheel-arch moldings.
Land Rover will offer seven passenger seating with a 5+2 third row for occasional usage. When the third-row seat is folded, luggage volume equals that of the two-row model. Both the second and third rows can be folded down using one hand to create a spacious load area. Second-row passengers sit two-inches (50mm) higher than front-seat occupants. Five interior color options include Ebony, Cirrus, Ivory, Almond and Tan.
Land Rover has equipped the new Discovery Sport with up to four 12V power points. Three-row models can have as many as six USB charging sockets. Dual-zone electronic climate control system, Halogen headlamps and DRLs, 10-speaker audio system and leather upholstery will be standard in the US.
The engine range will include a 2.0 liter petrol engine, supercharged to offer 240 hp and 338 Nm of torque. The unit will be connected to a nine speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system.
In Europe, the Discovery Sport will be offered also with a 2.2 liter diesel, delivering 190 hp. It can be assisted by the same nine speed automatic, or by a standard six speed manual.
It goes on sale in early 2015 alongside the existing seven-seat Land Rover LR4 in the US, which is sold as the Discovery in over 170 markets worldwide. Prices will start at $37,995 USD, and excludes $925 destination and delivery fee.
