Disco Sport to replace Freelander 17 | 04 | 2014
LAND ROVER HAS confirmed its Freelander replacement will be badged Discovery Sport. The new model will enter Scottish showrooms in 2015.
The announcement, which had been expected for some time, was confirmed today at the New York Motor Show. It also coincided with its preview of the design themes for a whole new family of Discovery vehicles, with the unveiling of the Discovery Vision concept (pictured).
"I'm proud to confirm the nameplate that will make Discovery a family of vehicles for the first time," Gerry McGovern, Land Rover design boss, said. "It will be called Discovery Sport and will go on sale in 2015.
“This will be the most versatile and capable SUV in its segment and is the first expression of the Discovery Vision Concept unveiled here in New York."
Related: Discovery Vision concept leaked
The naming follows the company's existing convention, where the Range Rover Sport sits alongside the larger range-topping Range Rover model.
Initially the Discovery Sport will be launched as a five-seater: expect to see a full production version of the car before the end of the year. It will be followed by a seven-seat Discovery Sport , which will form part of a four-strong range of Discovery models planned initially.
The larger Discovery model will be replaced by a more premium and more plush version of its present incarnation: it's this model which is expected to follow closely the lines and styling of the Discovery Vision concept.
Related: New Ford Escort returns
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Jim McGill