With no changes from the outgoing model, the 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic continues to be made available in two trims; the base S and higher-placed, feature-packed SE trim. Amongst them, both trims share a standard engine option, drivetrain, and transmission setup. While the trim options may seem limited, the restricted levels allow Land Rover to fill the SUV with first-class features from the base variant itself. As standard, you find a powered tailgate, premium headlining, and 12-way powered front seats. Some other trim-wise features include:

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As mentioned, the base S trim has abundant potential and with its standard features like heated mirrors, a comprehensive airbag system, and premium material inside the cabin can satiate all your needs. Moreover, with no changes to the powertrain, it performs similarly to the higher-placed variant. However, if you do not want to miss out on any luxuries, the SE trim will make for an apt choice.

Release Date

The 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic is scheduled for launch by the fall of 2021. Though a date is yet to be made official, the SUV falls in a similar release timeline as other big-buck SUVs from competitive brands.

Depending on the trim one opts for, the 2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic is available with a standard engine option. Both trims make use of a standard 2.0L P250 inline-4 unit that outputs 246hp and 269lb.-ft of torque. Power delivery is linear and even for a hefty SUV that weighs almost 5,000 lbs, a 0-60mph sprint in 7.3 seconds seems fitting and quick-firing, but in reality, is sluggish when compared to the rivals. 

The 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic makes use of a standard 9-speed automatic transmission unit and is channeled as an AWD variant across all its trims. You get a cushiony ride at your disposal and uneven terrains do not turn into road imperfections. Even during off-roading, bumps and twists can be covered without an iota of difficulty, and body roll is contained well at higher speeds. However, the transmission unit does seem to have an evident turbo lag to it. 

In comparison, the 2022 Audi Q5 produces the highest power of 261hp but its torque outputs are limited to 273lb.-ft. While all competitors make use of a turbocharged inline-4 unit and transfer power to all the wheels through an automatic transmission, performance varies from brand to brand. 

The 2022 Audi Q5 emerges victorious in the segment, clocking 5.7 seconds to 60mph, and gains a lead of more than a second over the Land Rover. While the BMW and Mercedes-Benz are evenly matched taking just over 6 seconds, they remain quicker than the Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic and even manage to record higher top speeds.

The 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic’s efficiency has neither been rated by EPA nor has any communication been made by the brand. In that case, with no changes to the powertrain, we feel that the SUV will continue averaging 19 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway feels adequate. It manages 20 MPG in combined driving conditions, but again it remains lower than its competitors. While the mileage and range are not specifically known, the Discovery R-Dynamic will help buyers save some extra dollars by reducing the trips to the gas station, thanks to its sizable tank that can hold 17.7-gallons.

When compared to its competitors, the 2022 Audi Q5 and 2021 BMW X3 average similar efficiency. While the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class lies only a notch below the two, it averages a comparable range. Perhaps, the ascendancy of the Q5 extends even further with its efficiency, and thanks to a sizable tank that can store 18.5-gallons of fuel, it manages a best-in-class combined range of 462 miles. 

The 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic’s cabin design is typical of the brand; an ergonomic setup that is filled to the brim with high-grade features. You get the latest gizmos in the form of wireless charging, a digital gauge cluster, and a heads-up display, and the cabin gets adorned with premium quality materials. You get two-tone Ebony leather seats as standard, and with the SE trim, it also adds an interactive driver display. There is an ostentatious aura that surrounds the cabin and this feeling of plushness is further extended by options of ventilated seats that get power adjustability.

The central console gets a neat gloss finish to it and the transmission and terrain selector and climate control knobs are easy to get used to. Land Rover also adds the R-Dynamic badge inside the cabin to distinguish it from its mainstream counterpart. Amongst other quirks, you get a leather-wrapped steering wheel and premium ambient lighting available with the SE trim to justify the price tag that comes attached to the SUV.

In terms of space and comfort, the 2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic can seat five to seven passengers depending on the configuration. The first and second rows of seats have ample space at their disposal, however, when added, the third row feels claustrophobic for adults and is best suited for kids due to its constrained leg space. Irrespective, each seat feels adequately bolstered and provides unparalleled under-thigh, knee, and lumbar support. There is no shortage of space on the inside and the SUV gets a standard trunk volume of 26.6 cu.-ft.

In the segment, all other SUVs can seat five passengers only. However, the provision of two rows of seating helps improve the cargo space considerably. At 28.7 cubic feet, the BMW X3 leads the segment in terms of cargo space, while the Mercedes-Benz GLC Class remains at the bottom of the table. 

Each SUV in comparison has a large boot opening which makes loading and unloading of cargo and luggage easy for the buyer. A plethora of features are available as standard in all four SUVs and there is no dearth of premium quality materials.

Some standout interior features of the 2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic include:

• Dual-zone climate control
•  Shadow aluminum trim finish
• Premium leather upholstery
• Power Liftgate
• Tilt and Telescopic Multi-function Steering Wheel
• 12-way electronically adjustable front seats

How intuitive is the 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic’s infotainment system?

Like the Land Rover Discovery, the Sport R-Dynamic makes use of the PIVI Pro system and gets mated to a 10-inch display screen. This unit has crisp graphics and feels easy to use, however, the occasional lag in response might irk some buyers. As standard, the infotainment system comes equipped with Bluetooth Connectivity, USB charging ports, and a wireless charging pad. Additionally, it supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sound duties are handled by the brand’s 8-speaker sound system and a 14-speaker Meridien system is available for buyers of the SE trim. Some salient infotainment features include:

• SiriusXM Satellite Radio
• Navigation System
•  Voice Recognition
• Optional Wi-fi Hotspot
• Auxiliary Audio Input
• MP3 Player

The Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic continues to be prepossessing and invigorating. It looks contemporary and ultramodern and has a new take on how boxy SUVs look. There are subtle lines and curves that run through the body in place of sharper elements found on the Range Rover, which make it look rather optimistic. Its elevated stance makes it apt for off-roading and the heightened roofline ensures extra headroom for the passengers on the inside.

Upfront, the fascia is a combination of aggression and sublimity. The LED headlights look furious and imposing, while the rather smallish grille and the block-letter “DISCOVERY” badging look premium and subtle. The rear end is upright and makes the SUV look colossal and stately, while the wrap-around LED taillights have a buoyant feel to them, leaving one in a cheery mood every time he looks at the SUV parked in the driveway.

The compact stance of the 2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic is evident in its dimensions. It is 181 inches long with a wheelbase of 107.9 inches. However its width and height of 87.4 and 74.3 inches are defining and with a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, off-roading will never be a problem. Additionally, it is also the lightest SUV having a curb weight of 4,035 lbs.

Amongst the competition, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a wheelbase of 113.1 inches, which is also the longest in the segment. The 2021 BMW X3 and 2022 Audi Q5 are almost similar to the Land Rover in terms of ground clearance, however, they are less wide and tall. 

Each SUV has a unique design language and what styling one likes the most is undoubtedly subjective. However, if we had to specifically mention our favorite, we would always go with the 2022 Audi Q5 that looks sharp and striking from the word go. 

Some notable exterior features of the 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic include:

• 20/22-inch five-spoke wheels
• Powered tailgate
• Heated exterior mirrors
• Front fog lamps
• Panoramic sunroof
• Rear spoiler and power-retractable running boards

Land Rover’s attempt to make the 2022 Discovery Sport R-Dynamic an all-rounded and holistic vehicle is perceptible by the number of driver-assistance features offered onboard the SUV. While it has not been tested by the NHTSA and IIHS, we expect the vehicle to carry forward its exceptional performance in the crash-tests like before. The D7 platform that it gets based on, is completely made from aluminum and while it is resilient, it also helps the SUV drop essential weight.

As standard, the 2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic comes equipped with a plethora of safety features from the base trim itself. Some of these features include :

•  Comprehensive airbag system with a total of 8 airbags
•  Traffic Sign Recognition
•  Forward Collision Warning
•  Adaptive Cruise Control 
• Blind-spot monitor and cross-traffic alert
• Auto-leveling headlights

2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic vs 2022 Audi Q5

Perhaps, the 2022 Audi Q5 is the primary competitor to the 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic. Both these SUVs cater to a family-oriented audience but the latter does get an advantage with its three rows of seating space. But delve into the specifics and it’s clear that the former has a stronghold over the latter. Credit the Q5’s likability to its long-standing history or its performance potential, either way, amongst the two it remains our paramount choice. At a similar price tag, the Audi provides better acceleration capabilities, similar efficiency, and has a more commodious cabin. The infotainment system is precise and spot on and with a better warranty policy, we feel it’s tailor-made for family hauling.

2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 BMW X3 is the brand’s attempt to make its presence felt in a rather competitive and ever-growing segment. When compared directly to the 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic, the X3 is quicker, more efficient, and easier to drive. the LR loses out in all other practical aspects. However, the BMW can seat only five passengers and lacks the third row of seating that gives the Discovery R-Dynamic a slight advantage. But with a commodious cabin and better cargo space, the X3 manages to win the battle of practicality. With suspected design changes with the upcoming MY, we’d place our bets on the BMW.

2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

As an entry-level luxury SUV from a reputed brand, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Class has high expectations to live up to, and it is safe to say that it does its job with great aplomb. However, in an ever-evolving segment, it faces stiff competition, especially from the 2022 Land Rover Discovery R-Dynamic. While both SUVs are closely matched in acceleration and efficiency categories, their interior space and cabin design are major points of contestation. While the Mercedes-Benz can seat five passengers, the Discovery R-Dynamic gets equipped with an optional seven-seat configuration. Moreover, the LR is easier to drive and feels sophisticated over road bumps. Its off-roading capabilities are unmatched and by being equipped with all class-leading specifications from the base variant, it presents itself as an alluring proposition.

Amidst the rising popularity of its corporate sibling, the Range Rover Velar, the Land Rover Discovery Sport has lost the recognition it bore a few years ago. However, in no way does its reducing popularity translate into displeasing performance. It continues to be one of the strongest contenders in the segment, which does not compromise on luxury and performance and the R-Dynamic variant is evidence of the fact. You get all the niceties you expect from a luxury SUV alongside jaunty engine options that are tailored for daily driving. While the third row of seats is not the best, the 2022 Land Rover Discovery Sport R-Dynamic performs decently well in all practical aspects. While we do recommend it amongst the available options, however, if you aim at opting for a more mainstream option, the German trio should rank higher-up on your list.