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Are the Ford Explorer and Land Rover Discovery the same?

No, the Ford Explorer and Land Rover Discovery are not the same vehicle. They are two distinct SUV models produced by different automakers, Ford and Land Rover, respectively.


Differences Between the Ford Explorer and Land Rover Discovery


The Ford Explorer and Land Rover Discovery are both popular SUVs, but they have several key differences in terms of their design, features, and target market.


Vehicle Specifications



  • The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV, while the Land Rover Discovery is a full-size SUV.

  • The Explorer is available with either a turbocharged four-cylinder or a V6 engine, while the Discovery offers a range of engine options, including diesel and hybrid powertrains.

  • The Explorer is primarily designed for on-road use, with a focus on passenger comfort and cargo space, while the Discovery is built for both on-road and off-road capabilities, with features like four-wheel drive and advanced terrain management systems.


These differences in size, engine options, and intended use reflect the distinct market positioning of the two SUVs.


Brand Identity and Pricing



  • The Ford Explorer is part of the Ford brand, which is known for its affordable and practical vehicles, while the Land Rover Discovery is a premium SUV from the luxury Land Rover brand.

  • The Explorer is generally more affordable, with a starting price around $35,000, while the Discovery has a higher starting price, typically around $55,000.

  • The Discovery is marketed as a more premium, off-road-capable SUV, while the Explorer is positioned as a more family-oriented, on-road-focused vehicle.


In summary, while the Ford Explorer and Land Rover Discovery are both SUVs, they are distinct models with different design, performance, and market positioning characteristics. The Explorer is a midsize, on-road-focused SUV, while the Discovery is a full-size, off-road-capable luxury SUV.

What SUV is better than Explorer?


The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is a top choice among family-hauling SUVs thanks to its spacious, well-outfitted cabin. If you need an exceptionally roomy SUV, the 2025 VW Atlas is ready. The 2024 Chevy Traverse wears a crisply ironed exterior and loads up on tech, while it downsizes to a turbo-4.



What is the luxury version of the Ford Explorer?


Ford Explorer Platinum
Which Ford Explorer trim level is the best? The highest trim level in the 2024 Ford Explorer lineup is the Ford Explorer Platinum. This trim level comes with the most luxurious features, like leather upholstery with tri-diamond perforated inserts, an available twin-panel moonroof, and a premium 12-speaker audio system.



Is a Ford engine in a Range Rover?


The BMW M57 diesel engine was replaced for 2007 with the TDV8 engine developed by Ford and Land Rover at Dagenham and Gaydon.



Is Land Rover Discovery made by Ford?


Land Rover, along with Jaguar Cars, was bought by Tata Motors from Ford in 2008. The two British brands were joined under Tata Motors to become Jaguar Land Rover Limited in 2013.



Did Ford buy out Land Rover?


Ford had purchased Jaguar 19 years prior for $2.5 billion, and it bought Land Rover from BMW in 2000 for $2.7 billion. Ford's reasoning for the sale was a plan called One Ford, spearheaded by Mulally.



What are the disadvantages of the Ford Explorer?


Understanding the Disadvantages of the Ford Explorer
However, many buyers' potential concerns are fuel economy, limited third-row space, and lateral handling. Despite the praise for many of the model's generations, the midsize SUV offers an average of 28 mpg, with some models falling to 20 mpg.



Does Land Rover use Ford parts?


As of August 2012, most Land Rovers in production are powered by Ford engines. Under the terms of the acquisition, Tata has the right to buy engines from Ford until 2019.



What years did Ford own Land Rover?


Did Ford own Land Rover at one point? Ford began the Land Rover acquisition in 2000 and finalized the purchase in 2005. However, after 3 short years, Land Rover was sold to the Tata Group in 2008, ending the short-lived ownership stake by Ford.



What SUV is like the Ford Explorer?


Chevy Traverse
Compare The Chevy Traverse Vs. Ford Explorer. If you're shopping for a versatile midsize SUV with three-row seating for up to seven or eight passengers, you'll want to compare two front-runners: the Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer.



What Ford SUV looks like a Range Rover?


The Bronco may be a Ford SUV that looks like a Range Rover, but it differs from the Land Rover lineup in many ways.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.