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Land Rover Discovery Station Wagon (1998-2004) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 16 - 30 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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Service and parts costs are expensive and V8 models thirsty so the frugal choice is the refined Td5 diesel. Insurance is above average, but depreciation is kept to a minimum, thanks to the Land Rover badge.

Discovery is a polluting model. With an average of 297 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are high for a large 4x4. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

The range is quite thirsty, averaging 26 mpg.

Previously noted for niggling faults it now enjoys better reliability thanks to advanced electronics but there are still reports of minor problems.