2023 Land Rover Discovery

The big news for the 2023 Land Rover Discovery is the introduction of a new Metropolitan Edition model, which becomes the most expensive trim in the range. There are no mechanical changes to this seven-seater SUV, though wireless device charging and three-zone climate are now standard on every model, along with a Meridian sound system and heated front seats.

Effectively a classier (and pricier) version of its Discovery Sport sibling, the 2023 Land Rover Discovery is available in four trims and with two engines. A two-liter turbocharged gas unit is fitted to base S models, a six-cylinder three-liter turbo unit goes into the flagship Metropolitan Edition, and buyers of mid-range R-Dynamic have a choice of either.

Prices start at $57,950 for an S, rising to $76,650 for Metropolitan, with R-Dynamic S models costing either $61,050 or $66,650 depending which engine you specify. The more luxurious R-Dynamic HSE will cost $72,850, but it can only be ordered with the three-liter engine.

The P300 engine available in lower 2023 Discovery trims is a two-liter gas engine, generating 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is supplied to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy stands at an EPA-estimated 19 miles per gallon city, 22 mpg highway, and 21 combined

The larger engine is a three-liter six-cylinder gas unit, outputting 355 hp and 369 lb-ft through the same gearbox and drive system. Mild hybrid technology means fuel economy is comparable, at 18 miles per gallon city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 combined.

Cargo capacity for the seven-seater 2023 Discovery stands at 9.1 cu ft with the rear seats in place, 45 cu ft with the third row buried, and 74.3 cu ft once the second row of seats is dropped.

As well as being one of the world’s most capable off-road vehicles, every 2023 Discovery benefits from automatic wipers and LED lights, a 3D surround camera, and blind-spot assistance. A driver condition monitor ensures attentiveness, while a suite of driver aids starts with traffic sign recognition and adaptive speed control, continuing through emergency braking and lane-keep assistance to wading depth sensors and parking sensors at both ends of the vehicle.

It would take a long time to list all the electronic systems installed on every model, but highlights include Land Rover’s iconic Hill Descent Control, torque vectoring by braking, a brake pad wear indicator, and gradient acceleration control.

A 400-watt 12-speaker Meridian sound system is fitted to every Disco, unless you move up to Metropolitan Edition, when it’s replaced with a 700W 14-speaker setup. Land Rover’s Pivi Pro infotainment and navigation system is fully smartphone-enabled, powered through an 11.4-inch touchscreen, and running both satellite and HD radio. Wireless device charging is standard with signal boosting technology, and USB/12V sockets are scattered throughout the cabin.

You certainly won’t feel short-changed with the most affordable Discovery. The outside mirrors alone are heated, electric, power-folding and memory-equipped with approach lights and automatic dimming on the driver’s side. There are two sunroofs (powered in the front, fixed in the rear), privacy glass, and three-zone climate control. Air suspension provides a smooth ride in tandem with adaptive dynamics, while convenient touches include keyless entry with a powered tailgate and push-button start.

Customization options include Windsor leather seating ($750), an upgraded sound system ($750), a head-up display ($1,000), and a powered gesture tailgate ($100). The Cold Climate Pack costs $600 and brings heating to the windshield, steering wheel, and washer jets, while the $950 Hot Climate Pack adds four-zone climate with air purification, a center console fridge and a solar attenuating windshield.

The main differences on R-Dynamic models are aesthetic – bespoke badging and different bumper designs, a black contrast roof and LED taillights, plus dark grey split-spoke wheels. The cabin receives metal R-Dynamic-branded treadplates, aluminum trim, and an ebony Morzine headlining.

Options are as outlined for S models.

While part of its near-$12,000 price hike over R-Dynamic S trim is accounted for by the bigger three-liter engine, HSE models also benefit from larger 22-inch gloss black wheels, auto high beam assistance for their premium LED headlights, an upgraded 14-speaker sound system, and Windsor leather interior seating.

The Climate packs remain identically priced.

If you look closely, the bespoke headlights with power wash and auto high beam assist help to distinguish Metropolitan Edition Discos, as does a gesture-operated tailgate. However, the main improvements are found internally. A head-up display sits behind a leather steering wheel in an air-purified cabin with adjustable lighting and four-zone climate. As well as incorporating power-folding, the third-row seats gain heating elements, while the driver gets to customize a larger 12.3-inch interactive display.

Only the Cold Climate pack remains available, for $500. By this point, everything else is standard.

Compare Discovery Trims Side-By-Side