| by Uncle Sha | 7th Dec 2009 |
Land Rover Discovery 4
The fourth-generation Discovery (Discovery 4) was launched in 2009, and went on sale in the United Kingdom on 1 September. Compared with the 2.7 litre TDV6 engine, which continues to be offered in the Discovery 4, the new TDV6 3.0 litre twin turbo diesel engine delivers a 9% fuel economy improvement (EU combined cycle) and 10% lower CO2 emissions, at the same time as increasing power to 241 bhp (180 kW); torque increases to 600 N·m (440 lb·ft).
The 0–60 mph time is given as 9.0 seconds, (0–100 km/h in 9.6 seconds). The new engine allows the the lock-up clutch of the ZF HP-28 automatic transmission to operate at lower speed. This reduces ‘slip’ in the hydraulic torque converter, improving fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The higher torque at lower engine speeds also enables longer gearing for more economical cruising.
Land Rover’s engineers have also altered the on-road ride, handling and off-road capabilities. The changes include new suspension components, revised steering, larger brakes, changes to the traction control, and to the Terrain Response system.
The exterior design of the Land Rover Discovery 4 has been updated, with smoother and simpler surfaces at the front, including a new, more aerodynamic bumper. Aerodynamic changes to the front end, with the revised front lower chin spoiler and new front wheel deflectors, help to reduce drag by increasing underfloor airflow. The new lights include LED technology front and rear. The front headlights include High Beam Assist, switching on or off, as conditions require.
The interior has been redesigned, with changes to the dash, centre console and new seats.
The Discovery 4 has new energy saving features. An Intelligent Power Management System includes Smart Regenerative Charging, so whenever possible the alternator charges the battery when it is most economical to do so. The new air conditioning pump is driven through a clutch which disengages when the air conditioning is not in use reducing parasitic losses and delivering improvements in CO2 emissions.
Amidst these innovations, the LR4 has also been subjected towards some criticism from old time Discovery fans around the world for not being a “real” Land Rover. For example, the LR4 doesn’t utilize a classic oil plug in the bottom of the oil pan as does almost every car and truck. The only way to change the oil in an LR4 is to have a Land Rover Dealership use a special device to “vacuum” the oil out of the engine.
