Say Goodbye to Body-on-Frame Construction and Hello to Monocoque
For 2005, Land Rover will introduce a new breed of Discovery. The rugged model has received a major rework from the wheels up, redefining Land Rover priorities in the
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| Land Rover will be introducing an all new version of its classic Discovery for 2005. (Photo: Land Rover) |
What's so different? For the first time it will be built on a monocoque platform as opposed to the traditional body-on-frame layout, which was the chassis architecture for all Land Rovers prior to the compact Freelander.
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| The boxy shape of the Discovery has been preserved, but everything else has been updated with 21st century style. (Photo: Land Rover) |
On the surface, the Discovery's "box-on-wheels" shape has been preserved, but within it's a completely different vehicle. Many of the British SUV's styling details, such as the multi-unit headlamps and distinctive fender fins are borrowed from the Range Rover, but the large windows, upright posture and roof-mounted vista are true Discovery traits. Alongside these changes are scratch-resistant bumpers and fenders, as well as an asymmetrical rear tailgate.
Another important change is the addition of an independent suspension system, rather than the current live axle and leaf spring layout, benefiting ride and handling on paved and gravel surfaces. The Discovery will now be as fit for tackling corners as it is the trail.