2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport debuts, starts under $40K

Land Rovers have long carried a reputation of exclusivity and go-anywhere capability, but the last decade has shown us that the British off-road/luxury brand is willing to ease up on said exclusivity in the name of increased sales. Just look to vehicles like the Range Rover Sport, LR2/Freelander, and their latest offering, the Discovery Sport—a three-row crossover for the common driver.

The Discovery Sport is joining the 2015 Land Rover lineup as the smaller stablemate (and eventual replacement) to the blocky LR4, offering everyday capability in a more efficient package.

Fitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Discovery Sport makes 240 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent through a nine-speed automatic transmission (with available paddle shifters) to an all-wheel drive system. The chassis setup features 8.3 inches of travel, Land Rover’s proven Terrain Response system, and the ability to climb a 45-degree slope.

Fuel economy figures have not yet been stated, but the vehicle boasts a unibody construction, with use of ultra-high strength boron steel and lightweight aluminum—all in the name of shaving weight.

In addition to available lane departure and blind-spot warning systems, an optional Traffic Sign Recognition system will read street signs and remind the driver to obey them. We are eager to get behind the wheel see just how intrusive this feature might be.

The Discovery Sport also has “5+2” stadium-style seating, with a 60/40 split-fold second row and 50/50 third row. The cabin is also outfitted with six USB charging ports and a quartet of 12-volt outlets for everyone’s gadgets.

The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport is slated to go on sale in the first quarter of next year. It will carry a base MSRP of $37,995 (not including $925 destination fee), but expect well-optioned models to run into the upper $40,000 to low $50,000 range—making it more attainable than the outgoing LR4.

—George Kennedy

More from Consumer Reports:
Top scoring cars in Consumer Reports' tests
5 best used cars for teen drivers
How to choose long lasting tires

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.