Update: Introduction, ‘Design’, ‘Specifications,’ and ‘Release Date’ updated.
The modern-day Defender’s huge success has overshadowed the Discovery within the Land Rover portfolio, but that does not mean the end of the road for the ‘Disco.’ JLR has confirmed that a brand-new Discovery is in the pipeline, and here’s everything we know about it so far.
Benefits of electrifying the Discovery
The Discovery would benefit greatly from full electrification. For one, it will run in absolute quietness, elevating its luxury quotient. A better weight distribution should also improve its driving dynamics and make it more stable on highways.
Furthermore, it is likely to be more nimble in urban driving and more potent on off-road trails thanks to instant peak torque availability. The higher ground clearance, underbody shielding, and torque vectoring can make it a better off-roader than the gas model.
Design
The next-gen Land Rover Discovery will be the sixth generation of the versatile family SUV. The fifth-gen model is strikingly different from its predecessor, and the design of the sixth-gen model could take another detour, as it would need strong visual differentiation from the Defender.
Mark Cameron, the Managing Director for Defender and Discovery, has said that JLR has to make sure the latter has a unique positioning, Autocar reported on August 26, 2024. The company will pitch it more strongly as a family adventure vehicle in the next generation.
The British publication says JLR may give the next-gen Discovery a slightly MPV-esque design to put a greater emphasis on its family-friendliness. It could look strikingly different from the current SUV, which, in turn, would further distinguish it from the Defender.
While Land Rover designers have been tasked to redefine the Discovery, we feel that the nameplate’s unmistakable DNA should still be evident in the future version. Sleeker, digital LED lights and flush door handles could be among the new design elements of the sixth-gen model.
A clean look with a closed-off upper grille, more aerodynamic wheels, a flat roofline, and streamlined bumpers can make the car feel practical and efficient.
Interior
The interior is also expected to be a major departure from the current model, but it should continue offering three rows of seats, retaining its “family adventures” values.
The Range Rover Sport lost the third-row option when it moved to its third generation. So, customers seeking a family-sized Range Rover have to go for the full-size Range Rover. Additionally, there’s less cannibalization for the Disco, since it belongs to the same segment as the Range Rover Sport.
Specifications
EMA Platform
The next-gen Land Rover Discovery will not share the MLA-Flex platform with the latest Range Rover (L460) and Range Rover Sport (L461). Instead, it will use the EMA architecture which is developed exclusively for all-electric models, former JLR CEO Adrian Mardell revealed during a conversation with Auto Express in 2023.
The British magazine has received confirmation that the EMA can underpin a three-row, seven-seat vehicle.
Elektrobit/EVA Continuum
Elektrobit’s software platform and Automotive OS are set to support JLR’s EVA Continuum electrical architecture, which the company plans to use across its vehicle lineup. A common software base should make it easier to manage ECUs, enable over-the-air updates, improve cybersecurity, and add new features after launch.
Range & Charging
e-AWD with two motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear axle, could be standard in the Land Rover Discovery Electric. The power and torque figures may vary, though. It’s early to talk about the battery pack and specs at the moment, but customers will expect 300-350 miles of range (EPA).
Since the EMA is an 800V architecture, rapid charging speeds of up to 350 kW should be possible, allowing a 10-80% charge in around 20 minutes.
Heat Pump
ThermAssist is JLR’s new onboard thermal management technology, is also expected to help the Discovery EV’s range, charging performance, and winter cabin comfort. The system, which debuts in the Range Rover BEV this year, is designed to reduce heating energy consumption by up to 40%, recover waste heat, and warm the propulsion system or cabin in temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C).
Release Date
JLR will start rolling out its next range of EVs beginning with the Range Rover Electric, Range Rover Sport Electric, and Jaguar Type 01. The so-called ‘Defender Sport/baby Defender‘ and next-gen Velar will also be EVs, following in 2027.
Following this cadence, the Discovery EV should go on sale in 2028, although JLR may share a glimpse of its design and some key technical details next year. “You should expect to hear from us, future plans on Discovery, sooner rather than later,” JLR CEO P.B. Balaji told journalists earlier in May 2026, as per a recent Auto Express report.
TopElectricSUV says
We imagine the upcoming Discovery striking a balance between the VW ID. Buzz and the Volvo EX90, offering the best of both worlds.
Land Rover Discovery Electric FAQs
What is the Land Rover Discovery Electric’s release date?
The Land Rover Discovery EV is expected in 2028, riding on the EMA platform.
Which models will be Land Rover Discovery Electric rivals?
The Discovery Electric would compete with the Volvo EX90 & Lexus TZ.
What will be the Land Rover Discovery Electric’s price?
The base Discovery Electric could cost around USD 70,000.
Featured Image Source: Jaguar Land Rover
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
