2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.0 Si4 Petrol SE Review

In Malaysia's D-segment SUV market, 7-seater models have always been a popular choice among family users – they need to meet daily commuting comfort, cater to occasional multi-passenger trips, and offer features that match their price point. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.0 Si4 Petrol SE targets these demands, boasting turbocharged power of 240PS, standard 7-seater configuration across the range, and Land Rover's signature full-time all-wheel-drive system as its core selling points. The purpose of this test drive is straightforward: to see if this vehicle can balance the aspects of "premium brand," "practical space," and "everyday driving," providing potential buyers with a clear reference.

In terms of exterior design, the 2017 Discovery Sport retains the rugged outline of the Land Rover family, but with more rounded lines compared to the previous model. The front fascia features a trapezoidal grille with chrome accents, and the LED daytime running lights form a distinctive "boomerang" shape, which is highly recognizable when lit. The waistline flows from the front fender to the rear, while the floating roof design adds a modern touch. The 18-inch alloy wheels are proportionate to the car's size, avoiding a bulky appearance. Matching the front lights, the LED tail lights at the back also follow the family-style design, while the silver skid plate on the lower part of the rear bumper enhances the SUV's off-road aesthetic. Overall, the design avoids excessive ornamentation, achieving a timeless and brand-consistent look.

Stepping into the interior, the layout prioritizes practicality. The dashboard features a symmetrical design with an 8-inch touchscreen placed at the center. The operation logic is straightforward, with a response speed considered average among vehicles of the same era. Below the screen, some physical buttons are retained for convenience during driving. Regarding materials, the upper part of the dashboard and the door armrests are wrapped in soft-touch materials, complemented by silver trim. While it lacks the opulence found in some luxury brands of the same class, the texture is acceptable for its approximately 390,000 MYR price range. In terms of features, keyless entry, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control are standard; the front seats support 8-way electric adjustment, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The inclusion of rear air conditioning vents and a 220V power outlet also caters to rear passengers' needs.

Space is one of the core advantages of this car. Its dimensions measure 4597mm × 2069mm × 1727mm, with a wheelbase of 2741mm. The trunk has a standard capacity of 479 liters, sufficient to fit three 20-inch suitcases without issue. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward and feature adjustable backrest angles. Legroom in the second row is outstanding among 7-seater SUVs in the same class — a 175cm tall passenger sitting in the second row will still have a two-fist-gap of space between their knees and the front seatback. The third-row seats are more suitable for children or short-distance adult passengers, as headroom is slightly constrained, but they work well for emergency use. Notably, the second-row seats can be folded in a 60:40 split, and the third-row seats in a 50:50 split. When folded, the trunk forms a flat space, making it very practical for carrying large items.

In terms of power, the 2.0T turbocharged engine has a maximum output of 240PS, with peak torque kicking in at 1750rpm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. During daily driving, the low-end torque is abundant, making the initial acceleration light and the throttle response swift. It handles overtaking or changing lanes effortlessly in urban areas. When switched to sport mode, the transmission delays gear shifting, maintaining higher RPMs, which enhances the acceleration feel. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 8.1 seconds, which is commendable for a 1.8-ton 7-seater SUV. In terms of fuel consumption, the measured average under mixed driving conditions is about 9.5L/100km, slightly higher than the official 8.3L. However, considering the weight and 7-seater layout, this result is within an acceptable range.

The handling and chassis performance align with Land Rover's tuning style. The steering is precise, with minimal play, and feels steady at high speeds, providing ample confidence. The suspension system employs a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned towards comfort. It filters out most minor bumps from the road, and vibrations when crossing speed bumps are well-dampened. However, during high-speed cornering, body roll can be noticeable, which is a common issue among 7-seater SUVs due to their higher center of gravity. With the addition of the all-wheel-drive system, its stability improves on rainy days or muddy roads. While it’s not suitable for heavy off-roading, it can handle unpaved countryside roads with ease.

In terms of driving comfort, the noise insulation performance is commendable. At high speeds, wind noise and tire noise are controlled within a reasonable range, ensuring that conversations inside the cabin are not interrupted. Engine noise becomes noticeable inside the cabin when the RPM exceeds 3000, but daily driving rarely reaches this level. The seats provide good wrapping support and are comfortable enough for long drives without causing fatigue. The adjustable backrest angles of the second-row seats allow passengers to find a more comfortable posture. The only minor downside is the rather firm padding on the third-row seats, which may lead to fatigue during long trips.

Overall, the 2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.0 Si4 Petrol SE's core strength is its balance—it offers 7-seater space for family needs, 2.0T power that’s sufficient for daily use, an all-wheel-drive system that enhances driving stability, and a range of features that cover most everyday scenarios. Compared to the Toyota Highlander in the same price range, it boasts a more premium brand image and has an edge with its all-wheel-drive system. Compared to the BMW X1 (imported 7-seater version), it offers more space and better value for money. This car is suitable for families who value brand image, require a 7-seater configuration, and occasionally drive on unpaved roads. It serves well both as a daily commuter and as a weekend family-outing vehicle.

In conclusion, the 2017 Discovery Sport 2.0 Si4 Petrol SE is not a model that seeks extreme performance or luxury. However, it strikes a well-rounded balance among space, performance, features, and brand value. It is a worthwhile 7-seater luxury SUV option in the 390,000 MYR price range.