LAND ROVER Discovery 1990-1994 Photos, engines & full specs

Land Rover introduced the Discovery lineup in 1990 as a more affordable version for the Range Rover and a more comfortable option than the rugged Defender.

While it started its career as a three-door affair, the British carmaker understood that a five-door version had to be offered on the market. Thus, it was more appealing to those who looking for a high-rider, premium family vehicle. But despite its decent road behavior, the Discovery proved to be very effective on trails. Moreover, it was promoted during the Camel Trophy years.

Even though the aluminum was already more expensive than the regular steel panels, Land Rover still used it. At the front, the carmaker installed rectangular headlights and corner-mounted turn signals to comply with the latest road legislation from Europe and U.S. On the sides, the doors featured big windows and flush-mounted door handles. Behind them, Land Rover added a third side glass area between the C-pillar and the thick D-pillar. Finally, the British designers created a two-step roof with a raised area above the trunk.

Inside, there was a modern interior with front bucket seats at the front and a bench for three in the back. For the driver, the carmaker installed buttons on the sides of the instrument cluster. Furthermore, the split-folding rear seats increased the already big trunk space.

But the essential part of the car was under the bodywork. Its coil-springs in all corners with live axles ensured a long suspension travel and comfortable ride. Land Rover installed an all-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential and a two-speed transfer case. Under the hood, the carmaker offered a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter gasoline V-8 and a 2.5-liter turbo-diesel. The former was developed especially for the U.S. market, while the latter was the top-seller on the European continent. For specific countries, such as Greece, Italy, and Portugal, Land Rover provided the vehicle with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine.