Happy birthday, Land Rover Discovery. The first example of Land Rover’s famous family 4×4 hit showrooms in 1989 – to celebrate, here’s the inevitable special edition model. It’s the Land Rover Discovery XXV, based on the top-spec model of the recently revised Discovery 4, and packing a few bespoke touches. It’ll be among the Land Rovers on display at the 2014 Geneva motor show.
What makes the Land Rover Discovery XXV special?
Wing badges read ‘XXV’ – the Roman numeral for 25. They’re joined on the exterior by exclusive 20in forged alloy wheels, black grille surrounds and mirror caps, plus a contrasting grey finish for vents and roof rails. The Disco XXV also benefits from stainless steel kickplates.
No changes are reported to have been made to the 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6, which develops 253bhp and 442lb ft.
Inside, the rugged-meets-luxury theme continues. The Discovery XXV is based on HSE Luxury spec, so it doesn’t want for on-board kit. However, Land Rover has included a leather-topped dashboard, fascia, instrument hood and door tops to ramp up the quality feel, plus deep-pile carpet and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Doesn’t sound like the sort of stuff you’d want to get mucky, but nevertheless the Discovery XXV maintains its all-wheel drive, Terrain Response control and superb wheel articulation to keep the ageing Disco’s status as a king among off-roaders.
No word yet on how many Discovery XXVs will be produced, or what the premium over the regular Discovery HSE Luxury – which sets you back £59,450 – will be.
>> For CAR’s complete guide to the 2014 Geneva motor show, where the Discovery XXV will make its debut, click here