2003 Land Rover Discovery

This rugged, lightweight V-8 has powered the top-of-the-line Range Rover for decades.

On the negative side, the power worm-and-roller steering seems slow and numb on the road, and the 39-foot turning circle is excessive. Until you adjust to rethinking parking angles and arcs accordingly, you'll often find yourself stopping, backing and readjusting to slot into normal-size spaces. And Discovery is the only vehicle I can recall (except for one long full-size van) that would not make the 90-degree arc out of my garage and down the drive in one sweep. This is largely due to the solid front axle, for which Land Rover claims advantages off-road compared to an independent front suspension.


"The slower turning ratio is beneficial in rutty, rocky off-road situations that can cause steering kickback and possible thumb injury," spokesman Bill Baker explains. "One has more control. Almost anything you might find quirky or antiquated traces its utility to off-road use, e.g., the long-travel throttle seems to need a lot of pedal to get performance, but when in low-range on the transfer case, that travel absorbs bumps and throttle input is smoother."


Other items in my negative column: The path to the ignition switch is partially blocked by a protruding edge of the dash, making insertion of the key awkward. The power seats, windows and sunroofs, even the single lighter/accessory plug, are powered with ignition "on" only. The only front compartment interior light is too large and bright for map-reading while driving at night, and there are no footwell courtesy lamps—you'll need a flashlight or a good sense of feel and experience to load or unload the CD changer under the passenger seat.


The auto-dimming inside mirror doesn't dim enough for my sensitive eyes, and the otherwise excellent sound system has no Random mode for CDs and no manual tuning knob for the radio. Though made of aluminum, the side-opening rear door is heavy due to the big spare tire mounted on it. The twin optional third-row seats use up a lot of room even when stowed, and (even without them) the Discovery provides only 63.3 cubic feet of storage behind its front seats vs. Explorer's and Grand Cherokee's 71 cubic feet and TrailBlazer's 80.


On the other hand, the permanent 4WD system boasts four-wheel electronic traction control (4ETC) for conditions ranging from rain-slick roads to stream-wading and loose-surface climbing. Land Rover's standard Hill Descent Control system (HDC) supplements engine braking by automatically applying brakes as necessary during steep descents. Inside, the climate control is dual-zone, there's small-item storage everywhere (even map slots over the visors), and the two sturdy cupholders cantilevered off the console will keep your coffee cups secure in the toughest terrain. Also, Discovery's four-year/50,000-mile warranty includes free scheduled maintenance and 24-hour Road Recovery service.