2014 Land Rover LR4 goes supercharged V6, stop/start tech

Land Rover revealed the details of the 2014 Discovery on Tuesday. In the States we know the big SUV as the Land Rover LR4. A supercharged 3.0-liter V6 will replace the 5.0-liter V8 and an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission will replace the old six-speed. Other fuel-saving measures are also on the docket for the new model year.

The new V6 engine will make 335 hp with forced induction, along with 331 lb-ft of torque. Top speed is limited to 121 mph while the 0-62 mph sprint will take a respectable—for an SUV—8.1 seconds. Curb weight is a hefty 5,655 pounds.

Land Rover

Visually, the new Land Rover doesn't seem to change too much. It gets the new headlight setup from the Range Rover, the grille looks a little more rounded, and that's about it. New 20- and 19-inch wheels are offered, while the Black Design Pack remains available. The selection of new photos conspicuously leaves out a rear-view shot, so we figure it has changed little.

Stop/start technology is standard for all gas and diesel engines, while emissions are cut to 433 grams/mile of carbon dioxide, whatever that means. It's also rated at 20 mpg combined, keep in mind that number is based on the European cycle.

Land Rover

Two four-wheel systems continue to be offered, with either a new, single-speed transfer case or the carryover twin-speed case that offers high and low range. The single-speed case weighs 39.7 pounds less than the dual.

A few new driver aids are thrown in the mix. Wade-sensing technology, blind-spot monitoring, closing vehicles sensing, reverse traffic detection and T-junction cameras are now offered. Also offered is a premium sound system with 825 watts and 17 speakers.

The LR4 will hit dealerships in the United Kingdom in mid-November, and later in the United States. Prices will be announced closer to launch.

By Jake Lingeman