Disco 4 best for touring Aust?

**101RRS** · 6th January 2020, 01:05 PM

Originally Posted by Tombie

It’s not a Ford engine

Part of their group, however it’s Pug

Yes (PSA) with design input from Ford as part of the joint venture - but the engines are actually built by Ford in the UK.

**StewG** · 8th January 2020, 05:02 PM

For what its worth, three years ago I ordered a 2.5 tonne off-road caravan and then looked around for a good vehicle to tow it. The short list ended up with 2013 Disco SDV6 versus a Toyota 200 series. I test drove both and couldn't go past the Disco. The main pluses are better fuel economy, genuine flat floor with seats folded and carries 7 adults - not that I've ever used that feature... Also slightly smaller turning circle and air suspension that can be manually selected. The disco also looks smaller than a block of flats.

Any regrets? Only one - the cost of service by the stealers. I've been trying out the local LR specialist independents and have saved many hundreds of dollars in the process.
The Disco 4 MY13 SDV6 HSE that I bought second-hand has been (and continues to be) magnificent. It tows beautifully on all manner of roads/tracks, is reasonably fuel economic, quiet, comfortable, and my better-half loves the driving seat push-button memory. Also the air-conditioning is super cool; great on 40 degree days.

We've done one big lap (24,000 km) and plan on another this year. The vehicle has done 191,000 km and still feels and looks new. Sorry I can't speak about the other 4x4 brands - no experience there.

Do your research thoroughly, test drive as many vehicles as you can and make the decision with your head.

**Blackrex** · 20th January 2020, 07:54 PM

To be fair to your dealer, I have seen one of those hoses get sliced within 500k's of being replaced as the cause wasn't rectified when the original hoses was replaced. The original hose had survived 160,000k+ before it failed just after a service. This one was caused by the engine cover being put back on slightly out of line so that the hose contacted the cover.

Originally Posted by Barraman

I believe that it’s the one that is known to rub on the engine cover. You can be sure that I will be having a conversation with my local dealer - who serviced it 4 weeks ago.

**scarry** · 21st January 2020, 07:07 AM

Originally Posted by Blackrex

To be fair to your dealer, I have seen one of those hoses get sliced within 500k's of being replaced as the cause wasn't rectified when the original hoses was replaced. The original hose had survived 160,000k+ before it failed just after a service. This one was caused by the engine cover being put back on slightly out of line so that the hose contacted the cover.

Which is something any good mechanic that works on these vehicles should be aware of.

**shamirj** · 22nd January 2020, 11:41 AM

To answer your question of whether the D4 is the best tourer i need to reflect on my own personal experiences with the full range of Discos from D1 right thru to D4 that i have owned over the years.

Started with the defenders and had one break down near Central Coast something to do with the front diff if i recall correctly and then moved onto the Discos as my preferred 4wd. Defenders very capable, great ground clearance etc but not comfy in comparison to the Disco range.

Had a few D1 all from memory were diesels and never had a break down ever. Great tourer and simple to repair.

Owned few D2's, most Td5s and one V8. Great vehicles but one experience with the V8 left me questioning the LR brand. Upon driving home on a short distance to home, the V8 poked a hole on side of the block and caught on fire. All repaired under warranty but experience wont be forgotten. The D2 looked very different to the D1 but the luggage space was fantastic. Td5 though a good engine was very loud in my opinion.

Moved onto the D3s, big improvement in ride and comfort, reliable vehicles excellent tourer no issues to report there.

Then came the D4s which is on another level with regard to ride, comfort, luxury etc. Its a real joy to drive when all going well. Lost some faith in the D4 when i just had a break down (first ever in a D4) tow home to find the fuel was contaminated so could of happened to anyone driving anything really. Once i get the car back, i still think the D4 is the best tourer compared to any other LR or other makes really.

I have driven a D5 offroad and wow its on another level again. But the price is the big killer for me and others. Repairs are becoming more expensive and they do cost more in repairs but they are the best out there on the market. Not driven other makes have no interest.

So to answer your question i think the D4 and D5 are the best tourers on the market, just comes down to price and affordability. But they are not cheap to run and maintain so budget for some expenses here and there. good luck.

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