Land Rover has been spotted once again pushing a prototype version of the next-gen Discovery around the Nurburgring in Germany, perhaps giving us some clues as to what to look forward to in terms of on-road driving dynamics.
The Nurburgring is regarded as the holy grail of proving grounds for manufacturers, with all types of bends kneading and stretching a vehicle’s platform. It is, however, not usually the place you might find a heavy-duty 4×4, like the Discovery.
We’re sure Land Rover will have more than a few surprises in store for us in terms of clever off-road technology and terrain-conquering gadgets, but it looks like it is taking on-road testing rather seriously. This is the second time we’ve seen the new Discovery being punishing around the circuit.
It’s understood this new model uses a fresh platform with lots of aluminium infused in it to help shake off some of its 2.5-tonne obesity status. Weight reduction alone could help to provide noticeable improvements in handling and driving performance.
Rumour has it Land Rover might be planning to release two different versions of the next Discovery; one to cater for mostly on-road stuff while accommodating seven passengers, and another version for proper off-road stuff (the next Defender?). If this is the case Land Rover could simply be testing the fundamentals of the new chassis, and ensuring it is strong enough for both applications.
There’s been no word as yet on what will power the new model. As far as we know it could get a new wave of engine options that the company is known to be planning, as well as its new Ingenium family.
A full debut is expected to take place in 2017, with market entry in some regions by the end of that year or early in 2018. The new model will likely take on the design of the Discovery Vision concept, which shares many elements seen on current models like the Discovery Sport.
Click play on the video below, provided by autoevolution, to see the big beast doing its dance.
