Land Rover is introducing a new armoured version of its multi award-winning Discovery 4x4 vehicle.

The new Discovery Armoured combines Land Rover’s legendary all-terrain capability with discreet, state-of-the-art protection, whilst providing highly versatile and comfortable transportation for five people and a generous 500kg payload.

Benefiting from Land Rover’s extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, including the Range Rover Armoured, the Discovery Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians. “The broad range of capabilities provided by the new Discovery Armoured make it the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations,” says John C Wright, Land Rover’s manager, Government and Direct Sales. “The Discovery has been carefully engineered to help enable occupants to travel across challenging terrains with confidence.”

Ballistic armour
Although virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the Discovery Armoured features ballistic steel armour and glazing which provides B6 level ballistic and blast protection in acc. with European standard EN1522 level FB6. Standard specification includes run-flat tyres, bullet resistant glazing and under-floor shielding. The protection offered was certified by QinetiQ, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation. Detailed engineering changes were made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintained optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass of the armour. Modifications include uprated springs and dampers, larger diameter anti-roll bars, and upgraded front and rear brake callipers.

All-terrain capability
Like the standard Discovery, the armoured version comes equipped with the latest 4x4 technologies to deliver outstanding all-terrain capability. This includes Land Rover's acclaimed Terrain Response™ system, which enables the driver to configure the vehicle's performance to suit virtually any surface from tarmac to the off-road challenges of mud, grass, snow or sand. An advanced 2.7-litre V6 common-rail diesel engine provides effortless and refined power delivery, and is complemented by a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle features independent air suspension at all four corners, for a supple, level ride. The Discovery Armoured offers a commanding elevated driving position, with a flexible seating layout for up to five people. The practicality of the vehicle is also significantly enhanced by the generous 500kg payload.

Comprehensive support
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase, including a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty. A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met. Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme; a dedicated technician can also provide a number of scheduled visits each year, to assist with vehicle familiarisation and servicing.
 
Source: Defense Professionals

Tags: Discovery, Land Rover, Land Rover Discovery, SUV, Armoured, 4x4

On the eve of the New York Auto Show, Land Rover has released all the details on its new 2010 LR4. The new LR4 (the SUV formerly-known-as LR3) is packing a thoroughly revised, direct-injected 5.0-liter V8 sourced from Jaguar putting 375 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. Land Rover has updated its Terrain Response system to deliver five different settings to suit the terrain, ranging from a normal driving mode to the infamous "Rock Crawl" setting.

A new front end with revised headlamps and fascia joins a restyled rump with LEDs, while an all-new interior provides ample accommodations for five or seven passengers, depending on spec. A Surround Camera system joins keyless entry, push-button start, gradient release control and tow assist (max. towing is 7,716 pounds) to make jaunts to Grandma's through the snowy climes a breeze. A revised suspension architecture, improved steering and larger brakes (14.2-inch discs in front and 13.8-inch rotors in the rear) round out the major modifications.

The news:

• Refined, efficient and powerful new LR-V8 5.0L direct injection engine
• Impressive 375 lb/ft torque and 375 bhp
• ULEV2 compliant
• On-road dynamics transformed by comprehensive chassis system developments and a new super-smooth 6-speed adaptive transmission
• Updates to Land Rover's award-winning Terrain ResponseTM system reinforce class-leading all-terrain performance
• Fresh exterior design includes smoother new front end and revised lights, including LEDs
• All-new interior design delivers a more premium and functional five and optional seven-seat space
• User-friendly new features include available Surround Camera system, Gradient Release Control, Tow Assist, available Automatic High Beam Assist, and Keyless Entry, Push Button start.
• The new, fourth generation of Land Rover's supremely versatile SUV gains a new name – Land Rover LR4 – to go with its powerful and highly efficient new LR-V8 engine, fresh exterior identity and more premium cabin. The class-leading breadth of capability is extended even further with dynamic improvements for both on-road and off-road driving, and Land Rover has added a battery of user-friendly new technologies and features.

Tags: Discovery, LR4, Land Rover, Land Rover Discovery, Facelift, SUV, New York Auto Show

As a result of the world wide financial crisis, Land Rover has cancelled the G4 Challenge, which was suposed to be a fund generating activity for charity, mainly for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The aim was to generate approx. £1 million ($1.49 mill.) over the course of two programs.

When asked why the program was being abandoned, the managing director of Land Rover stated that "given the severity of the global economic downturn and trading conditions, we need to make some tough decisions and that means prioritizing our budgets on new product launches. We are disappointed for the competitors who have shown so much commitment and put tremendous effort into succeeding as representatives of their nation. We have and will continue to take swift and decisive actions for the benefit of the business; unfortunately that means the Land Rover G4 Challenge has to come to an early close."

The program was to take competitors through 18 countries and be an "ultimate test of team spirit and physical fitness". The entire Land Rover fleet was supposed to be involved, with the Range Rover Sport, Freelander 2 and Discovery 3 all earmarked for duty.

Tags: Discovery, Range Rover Sport, News, Freelander, G4 Challenge, Endurance Rally

A faceliftet Land Rover Discovery has been spotted during testruns in Sweden. Its said that the LR3 will be in the showrooms some time early next year. Pictures are courtesy of caradvice.com.au!

We will se the visual changes mainly will on the front end, with minor revisions awaited for the interior as well. At the front, these shots reveal a new grille with modified cross bars as well as new headlamps reminiscent of the Range Rover facelift.

The tail lamps are now equipped with new LED technology while new wing mirrors and sills complete the visual modifications.

Early reports suggest that Land Rover’s new 5.0-litre V8 engine will also find its way under the bonnet of the new Disco.

Source: caradvice.com.au

Tags: Motor, News, Discovery, LR3