The 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport builds on the automaker’s reputation in all the right ways. It’s comfortable, relatively affordable, and still capable.
Pros Capable off-road Well-equipped at every trim level Handsome exterior Comfortable for four adults
Cons No standard heated seats? Somewhat thirsty Pricey uprated engine Gets expensive with just a few options
The 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport ranked #15 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Land Rover Discovery Sport has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Outstanding interior Plenty of standard tech features Quiet, smooth ride
Cons Unimpressive handling Infotainment system unresponsive at times Transmission has poorly timed shifts Below-average fuel economy
The 2018 Discovery Sport gains a few updates. Most notably, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine is now more powerful and efficient and is available with two different output levels. Changes have also been made to front-seat adjustments and comfort. Some changes have been made to trim-level equipment and options.
PROS Above-average off-road and all-weather capabilities Available third-row seating Plenty of passenger and cargo space
CONS Active safety features and driver aids are pricey extras Cabin is well-made but less luxurious than those of rivals Below-average fuel economy
The 2018 Ford Edge has an eager feel and crisp design; safety scores and Sport ride quality give pause.The Edge satisfies more than a few needs. It’s sleeker than the truck-infused Expedition, even the Explorer. It’s more spacious than the Escape. It’s also devoid of any off-road pretense, any faux-SUV ruggedness.
Pros Quick steering Cabin’s muted details Wide range of engines Composed ride on small-tire models Edge Sport lives up to name
Cons Seats are a big letdown Real-world fuel economy Stiff Sport ride
The Ford Endura is Ford Australia’s first large soft-road SUV since it stopped producing the Territory. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel that’s both powerful and relatively economical. It is good to steer, with polished cornering manners for a large SUV. There are front-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, and auto-braking is standard.
Pros Punchy engine; roadholding, cabin space, standard features.
Cons Dated dashboard, no petrol option.
Many Australians sorely miss the locally built Ford Territory. We’ve had our first local drive of the imported Endura to discover whether that large-SUV product gap has been adequately filled…
Pros Spacious rear seat and big boot Good steering Ride comfort and secure handling on country roads Smooth and quiet turbo diesel Lots of technology/features from entry model upwards
Cons No third-row seating despite vehicle’s size Performance only adequate Urban ride quality still an unknown Cabin presentation a bit underwhelming $4000 charge for AWD