Volkswagen Touareg 2012 review
Volkswagen has announced styling changes to the 2013 model Touareg and at the same time has...
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We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?
WHAT IS IT?
This is the latest model of the fourth generation Land Rover Discovery,in this case, the entry level diesel five seater with a few options thrown in.
HOW MUCH?
The price kicks off at $68,900 but this one had extra stuff pushing that up to $76,900.
WHAT ARE COMPETITORS?
Numerous but few with the out and out off road capability of the Disco though a Toyota Prado is a genuine competitor in most respects except prestige value. The Disco has been refined over decades to the point where it will virtually go anywhere and get back. And it features Land Rover's brilliant Terrain Response dial select 4WD system. Every other fourbie manufacturer should copy this if possible.
WHAT'S UNDER THE BONNET?
This one has a 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 diesel and replaces the previous 2.7. The twin turbo system is sequential with a smaller VGT unit handling low speed stuff and a larger one chiming in further up the rev range. The engine is good for 155kW/520Nm in this model. There's an even more potent version of this engine in a more up-spec' Disco. Transmission is a sweet shifting eight speed auto.
HOW DOES IT GO?
Like a train. Bit tardy off the line but once up and running there are no complaints. Has strong roll on acceleration, makes little noise or vibration and has plenty of clever technology like auto neutral select at idle to cut fuel consumption.
IS IT ECONOMICAL?
LR claims 8.5-litres/100km but we saw better on a highway run. The tank is a handy 82 litres.
IS IT GREEN?
Moderately though moving 2.5 tonnes is going to make an environmental impact.
IS IT SAFE?
Five stars in the Euro NCAP rating
IS IT COMFORTABLE?
Superbly comfortable with a supple air suspension and large seats affording a luxury car feel. Floats over bad roads like they were smooth as a baby's bum. Minimal noise intrusion, plenty of interior room.
WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
We liked driving the Disco a lot. It is certainly a viable alternative to the expensive Japanese alternatives from Nissan, Toyota and Mitsubishi. Plus, the Disco has heaps more panache and that robust turbo diesel with an eight speed paddle shift auto. Blows them into the weeds on desirability alone.
IS IT VALUE FOR MONEY?
Yes until you start ticking the options boxes.
WOULD WE BUY ONE?
Absolutely love one. It looks like Range Rover but costs about a third as much as the big Rangey. Goes anywhere thanks to constant 4WD system, tows heaps, has plenty of driver assist features and safety kit. Not too big, superb ride, impressive array of infotainment. Particularly like the surround camera that looks sideways and back when you are reversing.
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY TDV6
Price: from $69,900
Engine: 3.0-litres 6-cylinder diesel, 155kW/520Nm
Trans: 8-speed sports automatic, 4x4 constant
Thirst: 8.5/100km, 224g/km CO2
Vehicle | Specs | Price* | |
---|---|---|---|
5.0 V8 | 5.0L, —, 8 SP AUTO | $39,270 – 46,200 | 2013 Land Rover Discovery 4 2013 5.0 V8 Pricing and Specs |
3.0 TDV6 | 3.0L, Diesel, 8 SP AUTO | $36,520 – 43,450 | 2013 Land Rover Discovery 4 2013 3.0 TDV6 Pricing and Specs |
3.0 SDV6 SE | 3.0L, Diesel, 8 SP AUTO | $37,400 – 44,000 | 2013 Land Rover Discovery 4 2013 3.0 SDV6 SE Pricing and Specs |
3.0 SDV6 HSE | 3.0L, Diesel, 8 SP AUTO | $39,710 – 46,750 | 2013 Land Rover Discovery 4 2013 3.0 SDV6 HSE Pricing and Specs |
$16,999
Lowest price, based on 22 car listings in the last 6 months