Land Rover Discovery 5 Buyer's Guide

The Land Rover Discovery 5, launched in 2017, represents the most refined and technologically advanced generation of the Discovery family. It's a very different ownership proposition to the Discovery 4 — this guide covers what to know before you buy, including the one update that matters more than any other: the 2020 facelift.

Discovery 5 Generations & the 2020 Facelift

This is the single most important thing to understand about buying a used Discovery 5.

2017–2019 (pre-facelift): Original Touch Pro infotainment, 2.0L Ingenium or 3.0L SDV6 engines. Some early cars suffered from software glitches and electrical niggles as the platform bedded in.
2020–present (facelift): Introduced the significantly improved Pivi Pro infotainment system, updated D300/D350 mild-hybrid engines, revised suspension tuning and resolved many of the early software issues.

We generally recommend 2020-onwards examples for the smoothest ownership experience, though well-documented pre-facelift cars with a full software update history can still be excellent value.

Discovery 5 Engine Options

Engine	Power	Years	Notes
2.0L Ingenium Diesel (SD4)	237-240 bhp	2017+	Common, efficient four-cylinder diesel
3.0L SDV6	255-306 bhp	2017-2020	Smoother six-cylinder diesel, pre-facelift
3.0L D300 / D350	300-350 bhp	2020+	Mild-hybrid, replaced the SDV6 at facelift
2.0L Ingenium Petrol / P400e PHEV	296-398 bhp	2017+	Less common on the used market

The 3.0L six-cylinder engines (SDV6 and D300/D350) are generally the more relaxed, refined choice for towing and long journeys, while the four-cylinder Ingenium diesel is the more affordable, efficient everyday option.

Discovery 5 Trim Levels

S — Entry trim. 18" alloys, 8" Touch Pro, heated front seats, DAB radio.
SE — 19" alloys, upgraded leather, 10" Touch Pro, sliding panoramic roof.
HSE — 20" alloys, premium leather, Meridian sound system, all-round parking cameras.
HSE Luxury — 21" alloys, heated/cooled front seats, rear entertainment, Meridian Surround.
R-Dynamic — Sport styling pack, black contrast roof, gloss black detailing, available across most trims.

What to Check Before Buying a Discovery 5

Software update history — ask specifically whether the vehicle has had the latest infotainment and engine software applied, particularly on pre-2020 cars.
Air suspension — listen for the compressor, check for uneven ride height and any warning messages on start-up.
Electrical gremlins — test every screen, camera and electric feature during a viewing; intermittent faults are more common on early cars than mechanical ones.
Service history — insist on documented, stamped service records from a main dealer or reputable specialist.
Tyres and brakes — the Discovery 5 is heavy; check tyre wear patterns and brake condition, both of which can be costly to replace.

For a broader look at fault areas across the whole Discovery range, see our common problems guide.

Running Costs

The Discovery 5 costs more to service and insure than a Discovery 4, reflecting its complexity and newer technology — but the four-cylinder Ingenium diesel is notably more fuel-efficient than anything in the Discovery 4 range. See our running costs guide for a full breakdown.

Discovery 5 vs the Competition

If you're also considering a Range Rover Sport alongside the Discovery 5, our Discovery 5 vs Range Rover Sport comparison covers the key differences in practicality, price and character.

Is the Discovery 5 Right for You?

The Discovery 5 makes sense if refinement, technology and a more modern driving experience matter to you, and your budget stretches beyond Discovery 4 money. If value and mechanical simplicity matter more, our Discovery 4 vs Discovery 5 comparison will help you weigh up the trade-offs.