This week Land Rover introduced the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport, described as a “versatile premium compact SUV.”

Designed to meet the luxury and performance standards expected of the marque while earning its Sport badge and keeping within the compact classification, the Discovery Sport comes standard as a 5-seater with an optional 5+2 three row option.

The Discovery Sport comes standard with the same turbocharged 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine in the Evoque. The engine produces 240 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed transmission with gearing ratios designed to maximize efficiency and power and a Haldex all-wheel drive are also standard. In addition to performance, Land Rover adds to their premium designation through refinement and convenience:

• Sound dampening materials as well as specially shaped A-pillars and side mirrors reduce interior sound
• Rebound control in suspension struts reduce the road noise from potholes and other obstacles
• Up to four 12V power points and as many as six USB charging sockets are available depending on trim level
• Available sliding armrest with a roller-style cover for the storage bin—the storage bin features removable cup holders allowing the space to be reconfigured quickly with room for a two-liter bottle
• Ample storage space in front and rear doors as well as available third row storage
• Second row stadium-style seating with the second row seats mounted two inches higher than the front row
• Available luggage compartment rails for securing cargo

As part of it’s R&D, Land Rover put 200 Discovery Sport prototypes through a combined 6,800 weeks of testing to ensure on and off-road capability. Vehicles were rigorously tested in the sands of Dubai, the snow in Sweden, Land Rover’s off-road testing facility in the UK as well as several other globe spanning locations.

Also, Land Rover brought compact SUV’s to their design center and studied several families as they accessed third-row seating, installed car seats, synced electronics, and put drinks in cupholders along with other tasks in order to design a family-friendly cabin.

images courtesy of Land Rover