The introduction of the all-new Land Rover Discovery in April 1994 (as a late 1994 model) compact sport/utility broke new ground for this legendary marque. The Discovery was the first vehicle of its type to feature both driver- and passenger-side airbags as standard equipment. The Discovery was also the first sport/utility to offer a standard dual-temperature climate-control system.
Positioned in the middle of the compact sport/utility market, the Defender was designed to appeal to upscale buyers who were interested in uncompromised off-road performance, but also who preferred it in a comfortable, family-size package. The Discovery competed against the Chevrolet/GMC Suburban twins and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Year-to-year changes[]
1994[]
The first Discovery SUVs' one-and-only engine was a 3.9-liter aluminum ohv V8. The standard transmission was a 5-speed manual; a 4-speed automatic is an option.
The Discovery was available only in a 4-door body style. It also came in just one trim level, but the basic package was loaded with standard features including 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, power windows and heated side mirrors. The vehicle could further customize through the addition of such optional equipment as dual electric glass sunroofs, rear air conditioning, Connolly leather seats and a hydraulically retractable rear bumper step.
The standard seating arrangement included front buckets and a 3-passenger center bench. Two center-facing, stowable rear seats were optional.
The permanent 4-wheel-drive system featured a 2-speed transfer case with manually locking center differential for tackling really tough off-road situations.
Retail prices[]
- $28,900 (1994 Land Rover Discovery)
As of October 12, 1994:
- $29,350 (1995 Land Rover Discovery)
As of March 1, 1995:
- $29,950 (1995 Land Rover Discovery)
As of September 14, 1995:
- $29,950 (1996 Land Rover Discovery)