Land Rover already
started working on a revised version of the Discovery Sport, which should
arrive in early 2019, approximately 5 years after the current model made its
debut. In addition to the updated styling, the SUV is said to gain a modified
platform with emphasis on improved ride comfort, bigger boot space, and room
for a lithium-ion battery pack, reports Autocar.
The batteries are
said to be mounted under the floor, so they don’t affect the practicality and
handling of the vehicle, and they will provide an electric motor with the
required juice. In turn, the motor will work together with a new three-cylinder
engine. The PHEV Discovery Sport is expected to emit about 45 g/km of CO, thus
helping it stay within the lines of the new WLTP emissions tests.
Land Rover is
supposedly planning mild-hybrid versions that’ll be introduced when the SUV is
revamped, but it’s unknown at the moment whether they will use starter
generators or electrified turbochargers. Elsewhere, the 2020 Discovery Sport
will allegedly benefit from an improved throttle response and a reduction in
wind noise. The latter will improve cabin refinement, alongside other possible
updates in interior quality and design.
The British marque
seems to be planning new technology features, too, such as a ‘smart rearview
mirror’ and a ‘projected virtual reality view’ of the terrain right in front of
the vehicle that’s not visible to the driver.
