Used 2003 Land Rover Discovery SUV Consumer Reviews
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So Far It's Great!
picked up my Discovery S after handing in my EB Ford Explorer (had tons of problems with it). While there are less bells&whistles than the EB, my Disco is solid, fun to drive, and feels very safe. Just getting used to the wheel on the back door,makes it hard to see when backing up. But love the ride!
She's a beast!
Overall, I am very pleased with my '03 Disco SE. It adopted the 2002 Range Rover's silky 4.6L engine, and is as powerful as it sounds. Shifting is smooth and quality-sounding. Sharp- looking inside and out. With a skilled driver and without ACE, it still corners remarkably well. Surprisingly quick acceleration - very deceptive at stoplights. :) Plows through heavy rain, puddles and soft sand like a hot knife through butter. Will pull anything you can think of, yet is refined enough to shame the H2. Very easy to park. Looks like a box, but is as nimble as a sedan.
- S 4dr SUVMSRP: $8,950827 mi away
- S 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,500894 mi away
- SE 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,950960 mi away
Rather Be Walking
Bought my 2003 Disc.SE new and experienced problems ever since. Replaced electronic control units in both sunroofs, fixed the driver's side window and front sunroof as they were stuck open, cigarette lighter and heated seats stopped working after 2 months, and gas tank door fixed several times-it refuses to stay closed. Tail lights burn out continuously, back door bolts rusted since month 2 and bolts under hood corroding. Vehicle is very loud. Control panel layout is awkward at best. After sale service was so bad that I would never go back to that dealership. Take a very long test drive before purchasing this vehicle. Can't wait to get rid of mine.
GREAT VEHICLE
THIS IS OUR SECOND DISCOVERY BOTH HAVE BEEN EXCELLENT VEHICLES,GREAT HIGHWAY RIDE,VERY STABLE IN BAD WEATHER AND NO PROBLEMS.
best 4x4xfar
bought my disco2 in november and have been thrilled with it every day. Never have i had such a capable vehical. This from a guy who owned a jeep wrangler,bronco and f150 for the past 20 years. took it to the dunes of Yuma,CA.in stock condition and went where no other 4x4 could. Even dunebuggies had difficulty and h2's were left stranded in camp. winter driving is profoundly better due to the incredible traction control and ABS that actually works. As a bonus you can take it to a swanky restaurant and feel as good about it as you would a great sports car.
LUV My Land Rover
I absolutely love my Land Rover. It sounds like some folks have trouble with theirs, but I have had none. I am going on almost a year now with it. I love the seating position, it drives through anything (including 18 inches of snow this last winter). There is tons of room for anything you would ever want to take with you. My Dad bought a 4Runner at the same time I bought the Discovery and is ready to get rid of his car now that he has driven mine. The dealership is great. They are friendly, keep to their appointments and finish on time. Just budget for GAS!!! I spend about $200 a month driving around town. It's a lot - but well worth it to me.
Consumer SUV lover
Great midsize vehicle-fun to drive, nice to look at. Third row seats are a snap to use and to pur away. Only complaints are poor stereo sound quality, poor placement of CD changer (under passenger seat) and poor gas milage. Plus, I think they could do something a little different with exterior design, but overall a fun and stylish vehicle!
Power to spare
Rugged and powerful... Makes my '93 Wrangler look like a toy. Truly an off raoad vehicle with tremendous towing capacity. Installed cat-back "real" dual exhaust with K&N intake... 20% performance increase plus and honest 20 MPG an trips
Perception is Everything
Buy it only if your intentions include offroading. Only then could you truly enjoy this vehicle. There are a plethora of better handling and more fuel efficient SUV's, but none that are as truly capable off road. Some people suggest the Touareg, but I would highly disagree. Every major component on the lower 50% of that SUV is susceptible to damage due to its independent suspension. One more suggestion to people who are buying this rig... Get the Old Man Emu steering stabilizer as a first order of business. Especially if yours comes with the 18" wheels. It will eliminate, for the most part, rut-tracking on the freeway and bump- steer.
An off-roading machine
My land rover discovery has been everyithing i have expected it to be. It is truly a fun car to own and drive. It is not only great off road, but its road performance is excellent.
To our Black and Tan, ...cheers!
A vehicle designed as if by Architect! Drove it the first week from Phoenix to Telluride, and back by way of the Grand Canyon. With 2 kids and the awesome 2-screen DVD/playstation option on back of both headrests (does not fold down from ceiling in the way of visibility thank goodness!). We all had a blast! Handles great, and has a smooth powerful ride. No downside other than a little more knee room for a 6'-3" driver would be nice. Chevy Tahoes are just for the practical masses. Nothing compares to the Disco if you are a car enthusiast with design taste and kids!
I love this Land Rover
Traded a Freelander for the Disco. Should have bought the Disco in the first place. Don't get me wrong, the Freelander is a great vehicle, but the Discovery has better build quality, more space, luxury features, and feels much more solid. And it almost begs to go off-road. We opted for the 7- passenger version (SE7).
You get what you pay for.
This is my 2nd Discovery and I have gotten what I paid for with both, a very capable on and off road vehicle, with great benefits in the fact that it is weighty and stable. I got out of a Dodge 2500HD diesel 4x4 crew cab into this and was looking for something substantial, and found it in the Discovery. I have had no major service issues. The "command position" seating is great because you can see almost everything. I feel very safe hauling around my precious cargo in the Discovery and would buy another. Don't get it if you are looking for good gas mileage, that isn't what these were built for.
You'll need to make it yours
I have owned my Disco for 3 years, I average over 20,000 miles a year. No major problems at all. This vehicle is not a car, it is a truck, and once you replace the oem goodyear tires and put a multifunctional roof rack on it, you will be on your way to owning the most capable SUV on planet earth.
Awesome Presence
Finally picked up the Disco! 03'SE7- Zambezi/Alpaca. I agonized while considering and driving everything that may even be remote competetion. I believe this vehicle is the best in it's class. It is also the lowest priced SUV that qualifies for SEC179 IRS tax code. Quality/fit/finish look great. Gas mileage is what I expected. I can write it off anyway. although due to great pricing you see more on the road, the Disco still has more presence and exclusivity than the others, I like to be different. I'll report periodically with updates
Don't do it!!!!
This vehicle was a bust from day one. The electrical system went out multiple times, the A/C drains got clogged (for no apparent reason) and flooded the front of the car, the Goodyears they put on them cupped within the first 10K miles making it loader than a semi. The steering wheel is way too low for anyone over 5'10". This was the worst automotive choice I ever made. Do yourself a favor, look around, there are much better vehicles out there.
Discovery
I haven't had the truck too long, but it is fun to drive.
Enjoyable but disappointing
I love driving my Land Rover. It is great in Houston's frequent high water and I take it off road about a dozen times a year. It has been disappointing, though, due to the amount of times I've had to take it in for repairs (approx every 3,800 miles while under warranty). Maybe the bugs have been worked out? It is a good working vehicle, not a lot of bells and whistles that most of today's cars have. Is the trade-off worth? I can't tell yet.
Weekend Fun
I bought the Disco used as a third vehicle for weekend fun. After driving across the Santa Cruz river and trudging through 2 feet of mud and silt... I'm totally impressed if not shocked. So were the heavily modified trucks and Jeeps I drove past. Rocky terrain found here in Arizona is a non issue as my new backcountry driving experiences have taught me. This truck may not be refined (I've owed a Lexus and a baby Benz) but it's endearing, fun, versitile and more stares and positve comments than the shiny Lexus and little Red Benz. People just seem to gravitate towards its bold styling and appreciate its brutish stance. It guzzles gas no doubt, but the V8 sounds way cool, especially on start up
Slow and Overpriced
A good SUV in allot of way. Its strong, solid and safe. However its a thirsty, under-powered slug with a nice leather interior. Also the ongoing service will take the fun out of having it. I cant tell you how disappointed I am with this SUV, not to mention the hit Im going to take to get out from under it. Never again
Discovering Excellence
I love driving the '03 Discovery! I got an HSE, and it's amazing! Even though all the gadgets are in strange places, it is definitely a luxury vehicle! It handles all sorts of weather wonderfully, and it drives very smoothly! The 2003 Land Rover Discovery HSE is overall a great vehicle!
Good Value For Your Money and its Fun
I have now been driving a Discovery Diesel for the last 15 months. The car is fun to drive on highways, in the mountains as in town. Reliability and finishing is great. The view for driver and codriver enhances the road safety.
The Best
One of the best cars I have had the pleasure of driving.
She will go where others can't follow
I have taken my 03 Disco off road twice now (serious mud up to the frame off- roading) and believe even with stock tires she is unbeatable. However, I have serious reservations about the quality... leaking sun roof, punchy cruise control, oil leak, warning lights come on for no reason... where to start and where to end. With that said, she is a blast to drive (when things are working) and with the new design, turns heads on every street corner...
wish test drives were a 1000 miles
cruise control surge. gear box high pitched whine,both fixed now there worse than they were before.factory says to bad. 5 times in shop
Concerned, Happy So Far!
I always liked the exterior design of the Land Rover. I have clients who are mechanics and they said stay away from these vehicles. Therefore I leased my wife one b/c she loves it and does to date. I hedged my bet by leasing and keeping ownership under warranty. I must say I love driving it on the weekends. Lot's of fun, I can't wait to go off-road if my wife lets me. Very happy thus far!
Disco Series IIA
This is my second Disco and I must say it's been the most complete vehicle I have ever owned.
Fun to drive every day
I am finding myself driving a little slower, leaving a little earlier, and taking different routes just to spend more time driving. It may not be a rocket but I can keep up with the rest of the traffic. It handled very well on a weekend trip via the interstate during moderate to high cross-winds. It wasn't pushed around like the van that we once owned. My wife likes the fact that she can see the road and traffic ahead because it places her higher than an auto. My 6 foot 3 in pluss sons appreciate the leg and head room in the front and back seats. All in all it is fun to drive every day.
The Java Giant--Comfort and Fun
I purchased the 2003 Landrover Discovery SE in May of this year. We lovingly call it the "Java Giant" based on its size and distinctive Java Black color. The Java Giant is a luxurious vehicle, with functionality, that performs well on road and off road. The improvements over previous models make this vehicle a pleasure to own and fun to drive. It cruises on the roadways and tackles the backroads with ease. The only downside to the Giant is gas, it has the appetite of Goliath when it comes to fuel ecomomy. All and all, the Java Giant is a true SUV, and if it is worthy of the Queen of England, it is good enough for me.
Concerned, Happy So Far!
I always liked the exterior design of the Land Rover. I have clients who are mechanics and they said stay away from these vehicles. Therefore I leased my wife one b/c she loves it and does to date. I hedged my bet by leasing and keeping ownership under warranty. I must say I love driving it on the weekends. Lot's of fun, I can't wait to go off-road if my wife lets me. Very happy thus far!
8 MONTHS INTO MY DISCO
I FIRST WROTE WEEKS AFTER PICKING UP MY 03 DISCO. NOT MUCH HAS CHANGED. RELIABLE , SOLID RIDE, ALL SEEMS TO BE HOLDING UP WELL. DON'T KNOW IF I WOULD GET ANOTHER ONE THOUGH. COMFORT LEVEL NEEDS A BOOST!! A "RANGE" WOULD BE THE NEXT BEST THING, BUT THE STICKER IS KILLING ME!!!!
Climbs Rock
If you are looking for an adventure, this is the vehicle to go in. I have owned the 2003 model for a few months and have gone rock climbing with the vehicle a few time. I luv it!!
Classic!
These are phenomenally built trucks that can deliver under the most grueling conditions. 2003 redesign totally transformed these vehicles.
4x4xFAR
I have had my new disco se7 for 12 days now, and I can't get enough it yet! Took it to the Sand dunes and it handled pretty awesome. I always wanted a 4x4, this is my first, and I hope I never have to change from a Land Rover ever. Double sunroof is a plus, leather all around looks great. 12 speakers sound like a party inside. 6 cd changer cool. The list goes on and on. I hope I never have anything bad to say as months come around.
Bargain Style and Luxury
These are now cheap! Why get a new SUV that can't match the style or the capability of the legendary Land Rover Discovery? $13K gets you a nicely equipped, low-miles, unmolested Disco 2003, and from what I hear, the last of the Discos are holding their value (similar to the Defenders, and I can see why). So far, reliability has been top notch (beating the last Lexus I owned) and with scheduled oil changes at 7500 miles, fairly cost-effective to own. Get one and put the savings in a 401K. Of course, be prepared for the less than stellar gas mileage.
Curiosity caravan
The first day I bought it I went out looking for some off-road fun. Since then I have taken my family a crossed the country and back, on and off the road. The dealership I bought it from did not tell me the first owner hit a fire hydrant. That lead to problems for about a year, but it was all covered. Since then I have had no problems. It is not under warranty anymore. So I save money by doing all minor maintenance myself. Yes, the gas mileage stinks bad. To be honest that is the only bad thing I have to say about it. I will get another or rebuild when the time comes.
Surprisingly good!
Unique design looks better than most SUVs today! Head-turning, good looks complemented by elegant, quality interior. Unbeatable combination of off-road prowess and every day practicality.
Quirky but beautifyl
Quite possibly one of the best looking vehicles out there. The 2003 redesign really helped in many areas, and mine has run flawlessly. Both the exterior and the interior holds up well.
NIGHTMARE
Bought the car with 65,000 miles. It overheated on my cross country move at 67K (left me stranded with my family in Nebraska) and now there is irreparable damage done to the engine. I need a new engine which costs $12,000!!! WTF this is a total NIGHTMARE. Be careful Head gaskets go early and often. Land rover makes a horrible engine. I thought I was getting a unique car that would be a beast offroad, but it couldn't even handle on-road driving. I would not use this car to tow anything. It says there is a 7700 lb towing capacity but the weak engine shouldnt be forced to tow anything but the car itself.
A Classy Vehicle never goes out of style
I just purchased a 2003 Land Rover Discovery SE7, with 44.5k miles (vienna green). I love driving my Rovie thus far; classy, beautiful looks with refinements, all leather, and plush interior. I get alot of looks from other drivers, envious perhaps or maybe its not their cup of tea. Have not had any problems or issues, however I need to purchase the original oweners manual, since there was none at the time of purchase. I am going to baby my land rover or at least attempt to feather the gas pedal...I used to have a 1995 Chevrolet Silverado ex- cab...this rangie still gets better gas mileage than most SUV'S. Check all vehicles before buying and perhaps purchase and extended warranty for used vehi
Not a good vehicle to me
my 2003 land rover discovery is fun but the engine has sounded like a Maytag ever since I got it at 165,000 miles now 167,000 miles it just blew up.I know everyone has their favorite vehicles and I believe that ford had something to do with the welfare of mine.Well,that's just my opinion.Happy motoring.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I'll never drive any thing else
It is everything I thought. The clear view, the comfort. I am 5,2 112 lbs. This is the only SUV that fits me. My husband hates it but that's ok. It is my birthday gift. I love clearly seeing everything when I drive. I have found my second love.
Best 4x4 ever!
I'm a 16 year old high school student and I love my Disco. It has a good sound system, and it sits really high. The ladies love it. Lots of storage room and great on the snow and ice. The V8 has lots of power and pulls away from my friend's 6 liter V8 gmc sierra. Great for off roading and camping.
Bad, bad, bad
Purchased this vehicle as a demo model. Has been nothing but unreliable since day one. Yesterday I had to junk it because the engine failed totally! Beware of this year and model car. Look online for issues involving oil pump engine failures. The car was in the shop more than out -- sometimes months at a time -- power window failures, leakage, tailgate failure, numerous mechanical issues and basically a very rough riding car. Since this model year, I will pride Land Rover in coming out with the LR3 --I have heard a much better designed car. But don't buy a 2003 Discovery!
Nice Vehicle/Awful Dependability
What can I say, I fell in love with the design but quickly fell out of love with the constant time in the shop. I have had engine problem after engine problem plus the ABS lights are constantly on. I have spent over 7k just this past year and almost 2 months of being in the shop. If you get one of these MAKE SURE you have a warranty!
HSE Disc II
I purchased the 2003 HSE Disc II. I received everything I expected and more from my Land Rover. I love the redesigned look for the 2003. The vehicle has great acceleration and towing capacity. If your lloking for a luxury SUV with great off road handling, this is the vehicle for you.
Need to be Different!
After reviewing all of the SUVs out there, the LandRover DIscovery stands out!! 2003 offers abigger, more powerful engine, exterior changes, better warranty and noise reduction. She is tough, rugged and drives great!! If you care about gas mileage, she is not for you. If you wnat to be middle of the road, she is not for you. If you want class, power and toughness, call your nearest LandRover dealer. PS she has a bit of snob appeal, as well!!
NO LIMITS
The Discovery 2003 does have some inconvenient characteristics like the gas consumption and the turning radius .end; Maybe a range rover is too expensive, and maybe a hummer is a bit too big for driving in the city You want to drive a luxurious and practical car for a nice price and feel UNLIMITED!!!! .Discovery is what you are looking for.
The best there is to offer
Great vehicle for all occations.