The Discovery one had a long and distinguished life, eventually being superseded by the Sires two version I 1998. It retained the V8 petrol engine, but the diesel gained an additional cylinder and a new name. Td5. This fine new motor was smoother still than the 300 Tdi and boasted a power hike of motor than 20 per cent. But it it wasn’t just the power plants that had changed. Land Rover addressed the concerns of body roll by fitting rear air suspension and Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE) on higher spec vehicles. This hydraulic system takes readings from sensor on the vehicle and responds to roll before any takes place. And, what a difference it makes.
Climbing out of the Discovery one into the second generation vehicle is a revelation. Corners that would have previously had you gripping the steering wheel to stop you sliding off the seat can be taken faster. And the Td5 certainly allows you to keep up the pace. The dash layout can be traced back to the previous models and switchgear is in the same place as the earlier models retaining familiarity. The same could be said for the view from the driver’s seat that reassuringly big, Discovery shaped bonnet was still there. Other refinements included rethinking the occasional, third row seats. Although they kept the earlier models foldaway design the two’s rear pair of seats faced forwards, complete with head restraints that folder from the headlining.
The other seats were redesigned as well, receiving adjustment head restraints and better back support. Although the wheelbase remained the same, the axle tracks were widened, which also contributed to its improved stability. Other improvement had benefits both on and off road. The electronic traction control did away with the need for a central locking dif and gave full four wheel drive in ice as well still mud. The diff lock mechanism was still there inside the transmission it just wasn’t connected. Coupled with the rear air suspension, the Discovery two is fine off roader.
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