Discovery TD5 - Any Good?
Discussion
My wife is currently running a '01 Freelander TD4 as the family runabout for kids / dogs.
We bought the car against my better judgment (I didn't want a 4x4) but I have to say that i actually like the car now. It just feels like the right kind of vehicle to have all the kit thrown in and filth thrown at.
However, I've got 2 main problems with the car -
1. it's too small for our growing family and
2. it's underpowered (ours is an tiptronic auto)
I don't want to move to a Japanese SUV and wondered if a Disco TD5 would suit me better? Or would I just be buying a bigger version of my current car that was just as ponderous and underpowered. My budget will be about £15k so I guess a nice 3yr old one would be the kind of thing I'd be looking at. (I'd prefer to stick with an auto by the way - I think it just suits the style of car)
Can anyone share their experiences of owning / driving a TD5?
We bought the car against my better judgment (I didn't want a 4x4) but I have to say that i actually like the car now. It just feels like the right kind of vehicle to have all the kit thrown in and filth thrown at.
However, I've got 2 main problems with the car -
1. it's too small for our growing family and
2. it's underpowered (ours is an tiptronic auto)
I don't want to move to a Japanese SUV and wondered if a Disco TD5 would suit me better? Or would I just be buying a bigger version of my current car that was just as ponderous and underpowered. My budget will be about £15k so I guess a nice 3yr old one would be the kind of thing I'd be looking at. (I'd prefer to stick with an auto by the way - I think it just suits the style of car)
Can anyone share their experiences of owning / driving a TD5?
I've got an 03 td5 commercial which i've run from new...and its been a reliable bus, spending its time dragging race cars around the country, or being spiritedly driven point to point.
It seems to cope with most things fine and is much bigger than a freeloader inside ( wifies just bought one
) I spent a grand on a je ecu and intercooler upgrade which makes a very noticable difference to the performace, as unmodified the performance can be a little disapointing, but after the upgrade its great fun and economy doesnt suffer.
G
It seems to cope with most things fine and is much bigger than a freeloader inside ( wifies just bought one
) I spent a grand on a je ecu and intercooler upgrade which makes a very noticable difference to the performace, as unmodified the performance can be a little disapointing, but after the upgrade its great fun and economy doesnt suffer. G
We've got an '02 Td5 ES Auto which we're delighted with (*). Tows my Chimaera better than the V8 which preceded it. All the toys in the world. Does 23mpg round town (unlike the V8, which did 13!) About the only quibble I have is that the top speed is nothing like the V8, it's about flat out at 85mph, and has a very irritating habit of hunting in the gears if you try and accelerate hard from 60mph-ish.
I drove a chipped one as well when we were looking and I wasn't impressed enough to spend the £450.
(* Until my wife called this morning to say the driver's window wouldn't wind up. Sigh.)
I drove a chipped one as well when we were looking and I wasn't impressed enough to spend the £450.
(* Until my wife called this morning to say the driver's window wouldn't wind up. Sigh.)
thanks for the feedback - a '02/03 (post facelift) Td5 ES Auto is pretty much top of my shopping list
yeah, the performance issue is my major concern - 136 bhp to haul it around doesn't sound like much - what's a comfortable motorway cruising speed?
that said, it's predominantely my wife's car and she's no speed demon
what about handling? isn't there some sort of stability management system on the later facelift versions?
also, what about gereral running costs - my Freelander is serviced at a non franchised LR guy and he's pretty cheap. is the Disco more complex and therefore requireing main dealer attention?
yeah, the performance issue is my major concern - 136 bhp to haul it around doesn't sound like much - what's a comfortable motorway cruising speed?
that said, it's predominantely my wife's car and she's no speed demon
what about handling? isn't there some sort of stability management system on the later facelift versions?
also, what about gereral running costs - my Freelander is serviced at a non franchised LR guy and he's pretty cheap. is the Disco more complex and therefore requireing main dealer attention?
Just shy of 200BHP in mine 
there are a lot of conversions around, and some of the flash upgrades are a little suspect. Landrover themselves recommended the JE upgrade... and everyone who drives it notices the difference...
the options on the suspension are rear air and ace, which is the adjusting arb to control body roll. Mine has rear air but not the ace so i cant comment on how effective that is.. But mine handles fine, although it could maybe a little stiffer at the front... THe brakes are also light years better than the 300 series...
I've had mine serviced an a main stealer and its seemes reasonable... Although there is nothing special in it a good indy cant look after...
there are a lot of conversions around, and some of the flash upgrades are a little suspect. Landrover themselves recommended the JE upgrade... and everyone who drives it notices the difference... the options on the suspension are rear air and ace, which is the adjusting arb to control body roll. Mine has rear air but not the ace so i cant comment on how effective that is.. But mine handles fine, although it could maybe a little stiffer at the front... THe brakes are also light years better than the 300 series...
I've had mine serviced an a main stealer and its seemes reasonable... Although there is nothing special in it a good indy cant look after...
alfaspiderman2 said:
thanks for the feedback - a '02/03 (post facelift) Td5 ES Auto is pretty much top of my shopping list
yeah, the performance issue is my major concern - 136 bhp to haul it around doesn't sound like much - what's a comfortable motorway cruising speed?
Oh, it'll cruise at 80, the problem is what happens when you put your foot down, which is; it changes down, it changes up, it changes down, it changes up, repeat indefinitely.
alfaspiderman2 said:
what about handling? isn't there some sort of stability management system on the later facelift versions?
Yep. It has active suspension, aka ACE. A hydraulic pump stiffens the suspension on the outside on turns. And it works! It goes round corners like no LR I've owned before, and this is my fourth.
alfaspiderman2 said:
also, what about gereral running costs - my Freelander is serviced at a non franchised LR guy and he's pretty cheap. is the Disco more complex and therefore requireing main dealer attention?
Nope. I get mine done at an independent (Rogers of Bedford). The important thing is whether they have a diagnostic "book" (actually a laptop) or not. If not, there's a lot they cannot do.
(Oh, and the busted window was a spot weld failed on the window regulator. Rogers fixed it on the spot for nowt, even though it's slightly out of warranty.)
>> Edited by zumbruk on Wednesday 22 February 14:49
Graham said:
Just shy of 200BHP in mine
Oh, I noticed it - I just didn't think it was worth the money.
Although having had to abandon an overtaking manouver past an artic going up a hill recently, I might reconsider.
But then, I bought a diesel to save money on fuel. If it went like the V8, I might drive it like the V8, and we're back to 13mpg and new brake pads every 6 months.
Rather oddly, it tows 1.7 tonnes of Chimaera and trailer better than the V8 did.
this is really useful information - cheer guys
you're giving me the answer that I want - that a TD5 Disco is the right car for me
the upgrade and ACE should alleviate my concerns
more questions -
is ACE standard on the TD5?
I'd like to buy a higher mileage one (say 60-70k) as we only do low mileage (6k)- any problems that I should be aware of?
you're giving me the answer that I want - that a TD5 Disco is the right car for me
the upgrade and ACE should alleviate my concerns
more questions -
is ACE standard on the TD5?
I'd like to buy a higher mileage one (say 60-70k) as we only do low mileage (6k)- any problems that I should be aware of?
just been going through some old threads and came across one about MPG and the TD5 vs V8 debate
bearing in mind we only do 6k a year, should I be getting a V8 instead
if it's only the difference between 18 and 25 mpg then that's only about £500/yr more to have a V8?
my intial observations are that V8s are a couple of grand less to buy so I'd be quids in for the first few years.
or am I missing something here?
bearing in mind we only do 6k a year, should I be getting a V8 instead
if it's only the difference between 18 and 25 mpg then that's only about £500/yr more to have a V8?
my intial observations are that V8s are a couple of grand less to buy so I'd be quids in for the first few years.
or am I missing something here?
Standard fitment of ACE is bit confusing so from what I can remember here goes.........
ACE with rear air suspension (SLS) is standard on the "XS" and "ES" models whether its a 5 or 7 seat version.
ACE is also standard on 5 seat "GS" and optional on 7 seat "GS", which has SLS as standard.
ACE is optional on 5 and 7 seat "S" versions. As for the "E" version I'm not sure, but may not have been optional.
ACE is really excellent for handling but found it bit too harsh on some road surfaces, the SLS has acceptable body roll and softer ride. Depends on how hard you are pushing it, but if you are going for the top "ES" model anyway then you'll have it regardless.
Also a couple of buying tips that may be useful:
1)Watch out for leaks!! Sun-roofs on these as they are a real pain to put right, so make sure its 100% dry in the boot. Leaks are also common around front windscreen so try to see if the bulkhead where door hinges mount have gone rusty. Rear alpine windows also leak and can run anywhere.
2) If the engine idles roughly or has misfire this can be an injector on its way out and they are very very expensive to replace.
3) Trim tends not to wear very well, particulary leather seats can look very tired unless its been looked after with leather care etc
A lot of this is down to getting a good one in the first place, in which case its a good vehicle. Given your mileage I'd definately go for the V8 Auto ES model, which is superb value and super smooth.
ACE with rear air suspension (SLS) is standard on the "XS" and "ES" models whether its a 5 or 7 seat version.
ACE is also standard on 5 seat "GS" and optional on 7 seat "GS", which has SLS as standard.
ACE is optional on 5 and 7 seat "S" versions. As for the "E" version I'm not sure, but may not have been optional.
ACE is really excellent for handling but found it bit too harsh on some road surfaces, the SLS has acceptable body roll and softer ride. Depends on how hard you are pushing it, but if you are going for the top "ES" model anyway then you'll have it regardless.
Also a couple of buying tips that may be useful:
1)Watch out for leaks!! Sun-roofs on these as they are a real pain to put right, so make sure its 100% dry in the boot. Leaks are also common around front windscreen so try to see if the bulkhead where door hinges mount have gone rusty. Rear alpine windows also leak and can run anywhere.
2) If the engine idles roughly or has misfire this can be an injector on its way out and they are very very expensive to replace.
3) Trim tends not to wear very well, particulary leather seats can look very tired unless its been looked after with leather care etc
A lot of this is down to getting a good one in the first place, in which case its a good vehicle. Given your mileage I'd definately go for the V8 Auto ES model, which is superb value and super smooth.
IMHO the V8 is a much nicer motor and as you say the mpg isnt actually that different.. I would have had a v8 inmine but LR wouldnt do the commercial as a v8 for some reason.
( i've always found even with my spirited driving i tend to get good mpg in a v8 and poor in a diesel ( for a v8 or a diesel respecivly)
and if you can get it for a bit less than a td5 with the miles your looking at the reduced purchase price would make up for the mpg..
Ace was standard on some models and an option on others same with the rear Air.. mine was standard with rear air ( as i think all the 7 seaters are too) but no ace.
not all have passenger air bag either..
mines a manual so I cant comment on the auto box
G
( i've always found even with my spirited driving i tend to get good mpg in a v8 and poor in a diesel ( for a v8 or a diesel respecivly)
and if you can get it for a bit less than a td5 with the miles your looking at the reduced purchase price would make up for the mpg..
Ace was standard on some models and an option on others same with the rear Air.. mine was standard with rear air ( as i think all the 7 seaters are too) but no ace.
not all have passenger air bag either..
mines a manual so I cant comment on the auto box
G
Graham said:
IMHO the V8 is a much nicer motor and as you say the mpg isnt actually that different.
Aaaaeeeeiiiiii!!!!! I'm saving over £100/month on our piddly little mileage! If I won the lottery I'd go back to a petrol one tomorrow, but otherwise it's a diesel for me.
Would I buy another Disco Td5? Oh, yes. And shall, when we've had this one long enough.
Quite keen on a Series II Disco myself. The relative price of the V8 vs the TD5 on the used market is pushing me towards the V8 - I should be able to do a fair few miles on the saving in price.
Now - here's my question: there's been a couple of Discos on eBay listed as having "AMAZING Tornado chip fuel economy" - claims of 30mpg because of some kind of special chip?? Surely not?
Now - here's my question: there's been a couple of Discos on eBay listed as having "AMAZING Tornado chip fuel economy" - claims of 30mpg because of some kind of special chip?? Surely not?
"Church' was right about the leaks - we are about to get our third PDC unit, as the first two have fused due to water getting in. According to the dealer it is a manufacturing fault on the rear nearside body seams under the gutter, and nothing to do with the sunroofs.
We bought one of the 2004 'run out' editions, so got full leather, A/C, ACE, Air suspension, 17" wheels, centre-locking diff, HK hifi with SatNav, BIG roof bars, etc. - basically a whole load of extra toys that were thrown onto tghe car to sell them while the factory was gearing up for Discovery 3.
Boot space is much better than the Freelander (we have one of each), but curiously we have managed to get stuff back from B&Q in the Freelander that would never have gone in the Disco, thanks to the drop-down rear window. Rear seat space is also surprisingly limited in the Disco for such a big car.
All that said, the Disco is a great car, tows a Brian James Racebox full of Ginetta with ease, but is a tad thirsty at speed (aerodynamics of a house)and also round town - it is a big, heavy beast, at the end of the day.
I would also recommend that your lady test drives one, and takes it into a shopping centre car park - it is not the easiest car to drive in that environment!
We bought one of the 2004 'run out' editions, so got full leather, A/C, ACE, Air suspension, 17" wheels, centre-locking diff, HK hifi with SatNav, BIG roof bars, etc. - basically a whole load of extra toys that were thrown onto tghe car to sell them while the factory was gearing up for Discovery 3.
Boot space is much better than the Freelander (we have one of each), but curiously we have managed to get stuff back from B&Q in the Freelander that would never have gone in the Disco, thanks to the drop-down rear window. Rear seat space is also surprisingly limited in the Disco for such a big car.
All that said, the Disco is a great car, tows a Brian James Racebox full of Ginetta with ease, but is a tad thirsty at speed (aerodynamics of a house)and also round town - it is a big, heavy beast, at the end of the day.
I would also recommend that your lady test drives one, and takes it into a shopping centre car park - it is not the easiest car to drive in that environment!
thanks for the views
as for the V8 vs TD5 debate, I reckon the diesel will save me £50/month - not exactly a life changing sum
however, I'm more concerned about not being able to sell on the V8 in a few years
interesting that you raise the point about shopping centre car parks - that is a small concern although she though she would struggle with the Freelander and has had no problems at all (touches wood).....if we bought her a Disco maybe she would reduce her shopping levels so another bonus!
this is heracy, I know, but any views on the alternatives to a Disco (Range Rover, ML, jap stuff)?
as for the V8 vs TD5 debate, I reckon the diesel will save me £50/month - not exactly a life changing sum
however, I'm more concerned about not being able to sell on the V8 in a few years
interesting that you raise the point about shopping centre car parks - that is a small concern although she though she would struggle with the Freelander and has had no problems at all (touches wood).....if we bought her a Disco maybe she would reduce her shopping levels so another bonus!
this is heracy, I know, but any views on the alternatives to a Disco (Range Rover, ML, jap stuff)?
alfaspiderman2 said:
thanks for the views
as for the V8 vs TD5 debate, I reckon the diesel will save me £50/month - not exactly a life changing sum
£600/year. Buys a weekend away in a posh hotel or a very serious dinner at the Fat Duck. And petrol isn't going to get any cheaper.
alfaspiderman2 said:
however, I'm more concerned about not being able to sell on the V8 in a few years
And rightly so.
alfaspiderman2 said:
interesting that you raise the point about shopping centre car parks - that is a small concern although she though she would struggle with the Freelander and has had no problems at all (touches wood).....if we bought her a Disco maybe she would reduce her shopping levels so another bonus!
Bear in mind that a Disco is the same size, in plan, as a Mondeo. It's just taller, is all.
alfaspiderman2 said:
this is heracy, I know, but any views on the alternatives to a Disco (Range Rover, ML, jap stuff)?
If I win the the lottery, I shall be ordering a RR the following day. Until then, I'll stick to a Disco. I won't buy Japanese cars, so I can't advise on them.
To add to shopping centre discussion - 'wife' here - I manage my freelander fine in shopping centre car parks but the Disco is a slightly different kettle of fish - steering seems heavier (may be psychological) and judging where front and back are is very entertaining ... and dangerous for Nissan Micras if I get too fed up with them being in the way!
As for restraining retail therapy urges - the biggest aid (from your point of view!) is the head room question - a lot of multi stories round here have reduced headroom to stop the white van man dumping vans for the day and it does hit roof barred Discos too.
Oh yes, and before I get the 'girlie who can't drive' comments - I can drive a ;ittle bit - I regularly hurl my other other car round sprints and up hill climbs quite happily and that requires precision judgement!! And I've been accused of having spherical objects at times (which I don't!)!!
As for restraining retail therapy urges - the biggest aid (from your point of view!) is the head room question - a lot of multi stories round here have reduced headroom to stop the white van man dumping vans for the day and it does hit roof barred Discos too.
Oh yes, and before I get the 'girlie who can't drive' comments - I can drive a ;ittle bit - I regularly hurl my other other car round sprints and up hill climbs quite happily and that requires precision judgement!! And I've been accused of having spherical objects at times (which I don't!)!!
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