The Association of Scottish Motoring Writers has selected the Land Rover Discovery 4 as its 2009 SUV and Car of the Year. The Discovery 4, known as the LR4 in the U.S., was helped to its prizes by its all-around nature, new 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6, and fresh packaging.
“The Land Rover Discovery has always been a huge winner north of the border especially as our driving demands are different from anywhere else in the U.K., and the latest model has evolved into one of the best vehicles on the road today,” said Bill Caven, association president. “The new diesel powerplant is not only cleaner and more fuel-efficient but so beautifully flexible that you can’t fail to be impressed by it. In addition, the quality of the hugely versatile seven-seat cabin greatly impressed the judges and helped tip the balance in favor of Land Rover.”
According to Land Rover, the 2010 Discovery 4/LR4 features more than 1300 new parts. Although an all-new platform was deemed unnecessary, the Land Rover’s latest changes afford the luxury SUV increased capability and performance. The 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 puts out 244 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque.
On top of winning the awards, November 16 marked the 20th anniversary of the original Land Rover Discovery.