2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport: Review, Specs & Reliability

The 2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport tries to blend upscale British flair with the practicality of a compact SUV. It sits between the smaller Range Rover Evoque and the larger Discovery, promising off‑road chops without sacrificing daily comfort. If you’ve ever wondered whether this model lives up to the Land Rover badge, this review breaks down its key specifications, on‑road feel, and long‑term reliability record.

What’s Under the Hood?

Two gasoline engines dominate the lineup. The base 2.0‑liter turbo‑charged inline‑four pumps out 190 hp and 207 lb‑ft of torque, while the optional 3.0‑liter V6 delivers a muscular 340 hp and 332 lb‑ft. A 2.0‑liter diesel (available in some markets) offers around 180 hp with better fuel economy. All powerplants are paired with the nine‑speed ZF automatic transmission, a first for this segment when the model launched.

All variants come standard with Land Rover’s “All‑Terrain” full‑time four‑wheel drive, a low‑range transfer case, and the brand’s famed Terrain Response system that tailors throttle, gear‑ratio, and traction settings to the surface beneath you.

• Wheelbase: 2,745 mm (108 in)
• Overall length: 4,564 mm (179.7 in)
• Width (mirrors folded): 1,892 mm (74.5 in)
• Height: 1,659 mm (65.3 in)
• Curb weight: 1,700–1,880 kg (3,750–4,145 lb) depending on engine

Fuel‑economy figures vary: the 2.0‑liter gas gets roughly 20 mpg combined, the diesel nudges up toward 26 mpg, while the V6 sips around 18 mpg. Those numbers aren’t class‑leading, but they’re respectable given the vehicle’s weight and off‑road hardware.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The cabin feels more like a lounge than a utility wagon. Soft‑touch plastics, leather‑trimmed seats, and a panoramic glass roof create an upscale atmosphere. The standard infotainment system—Land Rover’s Touch Pro—features an 8‑inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and optional navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto arrived in a later update, so many owners retrofit the software to stay current.

Seating capacity is five, but the rear bench folds flat to reveal up to 69.7 cu ft (1,974 L) of cargo space. With the seats up, you still enjoy a respectable 39.9 cu ft (1,129 L) for groceries or gear. The second‑row seats slide forward and recline, a small touch that adds versatility without compromising the SUV’s sleek roofline.

Driving Impressions

On city streets, the Discovery Sport feels composed. The 2.0‑liter engine delivers adequate pull for most situations, though you’ll notice a slight lag when merging onto the highway. The V6, by contrast, offers a surge of power that makes overtaking effortless and injects a dash of excitement into weekend drives.

Off‑road, the Terrain Response modes truly shine. Engaging “Grass/Gravel/Snow” or “Mud/Ruts” adjusts throttle response and torque distribution, allowing the vehicle to tackle moderate trails without the driver needing to think about torque split. The air‑suspended walk‑around (available on higher trims) smooths out bumps, but its complexity is a double‑edged sword when it comes to long‑term durability.

Reliability – The Good, the Bad, and the Questionable

Land Rover’s reputation for reliability has always been a point of debate, and the 2017 Discovery Sport is no exception. Early‑owner surveys from JD Power and Consumer Reports typically place the model in the “below average” bracket, often scoring around 2.5 out of 5 for overall dependability.

Common issues reported include:

• Electronic gremlins such as infotainment freezes and faulty sensors.
• Air‑suspension leaks that trigger costly repairs after the warranty expires.
• Premature wear on the transfer case and front differential in high‑mileage units.
• Minor oil leaks from the turbocharger’s gasket on the 2.0‑liter engine.

That said, many owners praise the vehicle’s durability once the early‑life quirks are resolved. Routine maintenance at a certified Land Rover service center—particularly software updates—can stave off many of the electronic hiccups. The cost of parts and labor remains higher than average, a factor to weigh against the brand’s premium cachet.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros:
  • Luxurious interior with high‑quality materials.
  • Impressive off‑road capability for a compact SUV.
  • Spacious cargo area with flexible rear seats.
  • Powerful V6 option for those craving performance.
• Cons:
  • Reliability concerns, especially electronic and suspension components.
  • Fuel economy trails rivals in the same class.
  • Maintenance and repair costs are above average.
  • Base engine can feel underpowered in heavy traffic.

Is It Worth Buying Used?

If you’re eyeing a pre‑owned 2017 Discovery Sport, look for a well‑documented service history and consider a model equipped with the extended warranty that Land Rover sometimes offers on certified‑pre‑owned inventory. Units with the 2.0‑liter diesel tend to have better fuel efficiency and, anecdotally, fewer engine‑related complaints. However, the V6 remains a compelling choice for those who prioritize performance over fuel savings.

Overall, the Discovery Sport delivers the hallmark Land Rover experience—refined interior, capable off‑roading, and a sense of adventure—while demanding attentive ownership to keep reliability issues at bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the 2017 Discovery Sport’s fuel economy compare to its competitors?

A: It generally falls short of rivals like the Mazda CX‑5 or Subaru Forester, which often achieve mid‑20s mpg combined. The diesel variant narrows the gap, but the gasoline models remain a few miles per gallon behind the class average.

Q: Are there any known recalls for the 2017 model?

A: Yes, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration listed a few recalls, including a brake‑light switch issue and a potential fuel‑pump fault on certain diesel engines. Owners can verify recall status through the NHTSA website using the VIN.

Q: What’s the typical cost of ownership for five years?

A: Factoring in depreciation, insurance, fuel, and higher-than‑average maintenance, many owners estimate total cost of ownership around $45,000–$55,000 over five years, depending on mileage and service history.

Q: Does the Discovery Sport retain its value well?

A: Land Rover’s resale values are modest; the Discovery Sport usually holds about 45–50 % of its original price after five years, slightly lower than the segment average.