The Land Rover Discovery IV, produced from 2009 to 2017, represented a significant evolution for the Discovery line, moving away from the more rugged, utilitarian focus of its predecessors towards a more luxurious and family-oriented SUV. The 5.0 LR V8 (375 hp) AWD Automatic variant, available from 2011 to 2013, occupied the top performance tier of the fourth-generation Discovery (designated the L359), offering a blend of off-road capability and on-road refinement. This model aimed to compete with premium SUVs from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, appealing to buyers seeking a spacious, capable vehicle with a powerful engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Discovery |
| Generation | Discovery IV |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 LR V8 (375 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.8 l/100 km (11.9 US mpg, 14.3 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.1 l/100 km (16.7 US mpg, 20 UK mpg, 7.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 328 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 375 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75 Hp/l |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 3500 rpm (376.16 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AJ133 |
| Engine displacement | 5000 cm3 (305.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 17 l (17.96 US qt | 14.96 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 86.3 l (22.8 US gal | 18.98 UK gal) |
| Length | 4829 mm (190.12 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2176 mm (85.67 in.) |
| Height | 1887 mm (74.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2885 mm (113.58 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.40 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Discovery IV 5.0 LR V8 was the AJ133 engine, a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 developed by Jaguar Land Rover. This engine featured direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and a relatively high 11.5:1 compression ratio. The direct injection system allowed for precise fuel delivery, improving both power and efficiency. The engine produced 375 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and all-wheel-drive configuration were standard for the Discovery IV. Paired with the engine was a ZF 6HP26 six-speed automatic transmission, known for its smoothness and reliability. This transmission was electronically controlled and offered a manual shift mode for greater driver involvement.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.0 LR V8 provided a significant performance upgrade over the lower-powered four-cylinder and V6 options available in the Discovery IV. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in around 7.5 seconds, making it one of the quicker SUVs in its class. The automatic transmission offered smooth and responsive shifts, although some reviewers noted that it could occasionally feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various conditions, making the Discovery IV a capable off-roader. However, the V8 engine’s thirst for fuel meant that real-world fuel economy was considerably lower than the combined figures suggest, especially with frequent use of the vehicle’s full performance potential.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.0 LR V8 typically came with a high level of standard equipment. This included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a rear-seat entertainment system, and upgraded navigation. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally, the V8 model represented the highest level of luxury and refinement available for the Discovery IV. Interior appointments were generally focused on comfort and practicality, with ample space for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Discovery IV utilized a robust body-on-frame construction, providing excellent strength and durability. The suspension system consisted of independent double wishbones at both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The V8 models typically featured upgraded suspension components to handle the increased weight and power. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). While effective, the braking system wasn’t particularly noteworthy compared to some of its competitors.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Discovery IV 5.0 LR V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, its high fuel consumption and relatively high price tag were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the lower-powered Discovery IV models, the V8 offered a significant performance boost but came at a considerable cost in terms of fuel economy and purchase price. The V6 models offered a better balance of performance and efficiency for many buyers, while the four-cylinder versions appealed to those prioritizing fuel economy.
Legacy
The AJ133 5.0-liter V8 engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent oil leaks and other common issues. The ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission is also known for its robustness, provided it is serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Today, the Discovery IV 5.0 LR V8 holds a respectable position in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and luxurious SUV with a powerful engine. However, potential buyers should be aware of the higher running costs associated with the V8 engine, including fuel consumption and maintenance expenses. The Discovery IV, particularly the V8 variant, remains a popular choice for those who value a blend of off-road capability, on-road comfort, and a distinctive British character.
