What makes the base S trim distinctive?
The entry-level Discovery Sport S establishes the foundation for the Land Rover compact luxury SUV offering with a comprehensive suite of standard features. Exterior highlights include 18-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5075’ alloy wheels with Gloss Sparkle Silver finish, LED headlights with signature Daytime Running Lights, and heated power-fold door mirrors with approach lights. The S trim features Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights for added convenience in varying weather conditions.

Inside, the S trim comes with premium-grain leather seats in Ebony or Light Oyster, 12-way electric front seats with 2-way manual headrests, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The technological suite includes the Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a 180W sound system with six speakers. Standard driver assistance features include 3D Surround Camera, Emergency Braking, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Driver Condition Monitor, and Lane Keep Assist.
The powertrain features the P250 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Ingenium engine producing 246 horsepower and 365 Nm of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and the Terrain Response system that adjusts vehicle settings for different driving conditions. The S trim offers a 5+2 seating configuration as an option, providing versatility for families requiring occasional third-row seating.
How does the R-Dynamic S elevate the Discovery Sport experience?
The R-Dynamic S trim enhances the Discovery Sport with sportier styling elements and additional features. Distinctive exterior elements include R-Dynamic bumpers with Burnished Copper accents, 19-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5076’ alloy wheels with Satin Dark Grey finish, and unique R-Dynamic badging. The front and rear lower bumper sections feature Shadow Atlas details that distinguish this trim from the standard S model.
Inside, the R-Dynamic S adds sport seats with perforated grained leather in Ebony, Acorn, or Light Oyster with contrast stitching, a leather-wrapped R-Dynamic steering wheel with Atlas bezel, and Metal Bright pedals. The cabin atmosphere has configurable ambient lighting offering a choice of ten colours. Technology upgrades include wireless device charging and an Interactive Driver Display with fully digital instrumentation.
The R-Dynamic S maintains the same P250 powertrain as the S trim but adds Configurable Dynamics, allowing drivers to personalize throttle response, gearshift points, steering settings, and suspension characteristics for a more engaging driving experience. Standard equipment also includes Adaptive Dynamics with continuously variable damping that monitors vehicle movements up to 500 times per second, providing optimized comfort and control.
What premium features define the R-Dynamic SE trim?
The R-Dynamic SE builds upon the R-Dynamic S with enhanced luxury and technology features. Exterior upgrades include premium LED headlights with signature DRLs and Auto High Beam Assist, 20-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5079’ alloy wheels in Gloss Black, and a powered tailgate with gesture control that allows hands-free access to the cargo area. The SE trim also features automatic headlight leveling and sequential animated indicators that enhance both functionality and visual appeal.
Inside, the R-Dynamic SE offers Windsor leather seats with 14-way electric memory front seats that include 4-way lumbar adjustment. The cabin features enhanced storage solutions, including a deep center console with removable cup holders and a secondary compartment for small items. Technology upgrades include a Meridian™ Sound System with 12 speakers and a 400W amplifier, Traffic Sign Recognition with Adaptive Speed Limiter, and Blind Spot Assist.
Additional driver assistance systems exclusive to this trim and above include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality, Rear Traffic Monitor, and Driver Condition Response that recognizes signs of driver fatigue and suggests taking a break. The SE trim also includes ClearSight Interior Rear View Mirror, which uses a camera mounted on the roof to display a video feed when the traditional mirror view is obstructed by passengers or cargo.
What luxury elements distinguish the R-Dynamic HSE trim?
The R-Dynamic HSE represents the pinnacle of luxury within the Discovery Sport lineup, offering premium materials and advanced features. The exterior has 21-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5078’ alloy wheels with Gloss Black finish, Matrix LED headlights with signature DRLs that selectively dim individual LEDs to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers while maintaining optimal illumination, and premium door handles with proximity sensing for elegant entry.
The interior showcases Windsor leather seats with a unique diamond perforation pattern and contrasting stitching, 16-way electric memory front seats with heating, cooling, and massage functionality, and extended leather on the dashboard and door panels. The steering wheel is heated for cold-weather comfort, while the cabin features three-zone climate control, allowing separate temperature settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear occupants.
Technology reaches new heights with a Head-Up Display that projects key information onto the windshield, a Meridian™ Surround Sound System with 14 speakers and 650W output, and an advanced cabin air filtration system that removes allergens, airborne bacteria, and odours. The R-Dynamic HSE exclusively offers a ClearSight Ground View camera system that renders the hood “transparent” on the touchscreen, allowing drivers to see obstacles directly beneath the front of the vehicle during challenging off-road maneuvers or tight parking situations.
What unique elements are featured in the Discovery Sport Edition?
The Discovery Sport Edition is a special variant that combines distinctive styling with enhanced capability. Exterior highlights include a unique Lantau Bronze paint option exclusive to this edition, 20-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5089’ alloy wheels with Dark Satin Grey finish and contrast diamond-turned face, and extended Black Exterior Pack that includes a gloss black contrast roof, black mirror caps, and black Discovery lettering on the hood and tailgate.
Inside, the Edition features exclusive Ebony Windsor leather seats with Lunar stitching, Natural Shadow Oak veneer trim, and a panoramic roof with power gesture blind. The cabin includes illuminated metal treadplates with “Edition” script and a premium Ebony Morzine headlining that creates a more intimate atmosphere. Technology includes all features from the R-Dynamic HSE plus Activity Key. This wearable, waterproof wristband allows the key fob to be left securely locked in the vehicle during outdoor activities.
The Edition models are equipped with the Terrain Response 2 system, an enhancement over the standard Terrain Response, adding an automatic mode that continuously monitors driving conditions and selects the most appropriate terrain setting. This trim also includes Wade Sensing, which uses ultrasonic sensors to measure water depth when fording streams or floods, providing real-time information to the driver via the touchscreen display. The Edition offers the same P250 powertrain as other trims but adds the Advanced Tow Assist feature that helps drivers reverse with a trailer by controlling the steering while the driver operates the accelerator and brake.
How do the technology packages vary across trim levels?
Technology features are progressively enhanced as you move up the Discovery Sport trim hierarchy. While all models include the core Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4-inch touchscreen, the implementation and supporting features differ significantly. The S trim offers standard navigation, smartphone integration, and voice control, while the R-Dynamic S adds the Interactive Driver Display and wireless charging pad.
The R-Dynamic SE introduces online connectivity with over-the-air software updates, real-time traffic information, and connected navigation that can display fuel prices, parking availability, and weather at your destination. The R-Dynamic HSE enhances the experience with remote smartphone integration that allows owners to check vehicle status, lock/unlock doors, and pre-condition the cabin temperature using the Land Rover Remote app.
Advanced driver assistance features also vary by trim. The base S includes essential safety systems like Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist. The R-Dynamic SE adds more sophisticated features such as Blind Spot Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control. The R-Dynamic HSE and Edition models include the full suite of driver aids, adding Park Assist, High-speed Emergency Braking, and Steering Assist that works in conjunction with adaptive cruise control to maintain lane position.
What exterior design elements differentiate the various trims?
Each Discovery Sport trim level features distinctive exterior elements that create a progressively more premium appearance. The base S trim offers a clean, sophisticated design with 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. Moving to the R-Dynamic S introduces sportier styling with unique bumpers featuring Burnished Copper accents and 19-inch wheels with a Satin Dark Grey finish.
The R-Dynamic SE elevates the exterior with 20-inch Gloss Black wheels, premium LED headlights with signature DRLs, and a powered tailgate with gesture control. The fog lights receive chrome surrounds, and the window trim has a bright finish instead of the black trim found on lower models.
The flagship R-Dynamic HSE stands out with 21-inch Gloss Black wheels, Matrix LED headlights, and premium door handles with proximity sensing. The Edition model creates a distinctive appearance with its Black Exterior Pack, exclusive Lantau Bronze paint option, and unique 20-inch wheels with a two-tone finish.
Roof options also vary by trim, with the S and R-Dynamic S offering a fixed panoramic roof as an option, while the R-Dynamic SE, HSE, and Edition include a sliding panoramic roof as standard equipment. Additionally, roof rail finishes progress from Silver on the S to Black on the R-Dynamic models and Edition.
How do the seating configurations and interior materials evolve across trims?
Interior appointments become increasingly luxurious as you progress through the Discovery Sport lineup. The S trim features grained leather seats with 12-way electric adjustment, while the R-Dynamic S adds sport seats with perforated leather and contrast stitching. The R-Dynamic SE upgrades to Windsor leather with 14-way electric memory adjustment.
The R-Dynamic HSE offers the most premium seating experience with Windsor leather featuring a distinctive diamond perforation pattern, 16-way electric adjustment with memory, heating, cooling, and massage functionality. The Edition model maintains this high-end seating but adds exclusive stitching and unique trim elements.
All trims offer the 5+2 seating configuration as an option, allowing for occasional third-row seating when needed. The second row features 40:20:40 split-folding seats with slide and recline functionality across all models, but the R-Dynamic SE and above add heating for the second-row seats. The R-Dynamic HSE and Edition models also feature extended leather on the dashboard and door panels for a more cohesive premium appearance.
Interior trim materials also evolve across the range, from Gloss Black finishers in the S to Shadow aluminum in the R-Dynamic models, culminating in Natural Shadow Oak veneer in the Edition. Headlining options progress from Light Oyster Morzine in the S and R-Dynamic S to Ebony Morzine in the R-Dynamic HSE and Edition for a more sophisticated cabin ambience.
5 Facts About the 2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport Trim Levels
- Hidden Easter Egg: Each Discovery Sport features a subtle Jaguar silhouette motif hidden in the lower corner of the windshield—a nod to the Land Rover corporate partnership with Jaguar and a tradition started by designers in 2020.
- Terrain Response Origins: The Terrain Response system, available across all trims but enhanced in higher-end models, was originally developed by testing prototype vehicles in over 50 countries, including extreme environments from the Arctic Circle to the Sahara Desert.
- Naming Evolution: The “Sport” designation in Discovery Sport doesn’t just indicate a sportier driving experience—it references the vehicle’s position as a spiritual successor to the Freelander model, which was marketed as the Land Rover LR2 in North America until 2015.
- Sound Engineering: The Meridian™ audio systems in higher trim levels use cabin microphones to continuously monitor ambient noise, automatically adjusting volume and tone to compensate for different road surfaces and driving speeds—a technology called Trifield™ 3D that was originally developed for recording studios.
- Material Innovation: The Edition model’s exclusive Lantau Bronze paint contains microscopic aluminum flakes oriented in a specific pattern that creates a deeper, richer colour appearance that changes subtly depending on viewing angle and lighting conditions.
Q&A: 2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport Trim Levels
Which Discovery Sport trim offers the best balance of features and value?
- The R-Dynamic SE typically offers the best balance of features and value in the lineup. It includes significant upgrades over the S and R-Dynamic S, such as premium LED headlights, 20-inch wheels, Windsor leather seats, the Meridian™ Sound System, and additional driver assistance features like Blind Spot Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, without reaching the premium cost of the HSE or Edition models.
Are there any powertrain differences between the Discovery Sport trim levels?
- All trim levels feature the same P250 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Ingenium engine producing 246 horsepower and 365 Nm of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. However, higher trims add performance-enhancing features like Configurable Dynamics (R-Dynamic S and above) and Adaptive Dynamics with continuously variable damping (R-Dynamic SE and above).
Which Discovery Sport trim levels offer the 5+2 seating configuration?
- The 5+2 seating configuration, which adds two occasional-use seats in the third row, is available as an option across all trim levels from the base S to the Edition model. However, when the third row is in use, cargo capacity is significantly reduced, making this configuration most suitable for families who only occasionally need the additional seating.
How do the headlight technologies differ across the Discovery Sport range?
- The headlight technology progressively improves through the trim levels. The S and R-Dynamic S feature standard LED headlights with signature Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The R-Dynamic SE upgrades to premium LED headlights with signature DRLs and Auto High Beam Assist. The R-Dynamic HSE and Edition models include Matrix LED headlights that can selectively dim individual LEDs to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers while maintaining optimal illumination elsewhere.
What unique features are exclusive to the Discovery Sport Edition model?
- This trim offers several exclusive features, including the Lantau Bronze paint option, 20-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5089’ alloy wheels with Dark Satin Grey finish and contrast diamond-turned face, extended Black Exterior Pack, illuminated metal treadplates with “Edition” script, Natural Shadow Oak veneer trim, and Activity Key wristband. It also includes Terrain Response 2 with automatic mode and Wade Sensing as standard.
Does the Discovery Sport offer any hybrid powertrain options?
- While it does not offer a full hybrid or plug-in hybrid option in the North American market, all models feature a 48-volt mild hybrid system integrated with the P250 engine. This system recovers energy during deceleration, stores it in a small battery, and uses it to assist the engine during acceleration, improving both performance and fuel efficiency.
How do the driver assistance features progress through the trim levels?
- Driver assistance features become increasingly comprehensive in higher trims. The S includes Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, and 3D Surround Camera. The R-Dynamic SE adds Blind Spot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Rear Traffic Monitor. The R-Dynamic HSE and Edition models complete the suite with Park Assist, High-speed Emergency Braking, and Steering Assist.
What are the differences in wheel options across the Discovery Sport trims?
- The wheel options increase in size and design sophistication across trim levels. The S features 18-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5075’ alloy wheels with Gloss Sparkle Silver finish. The R-Dynamic S includes 19-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5076’ alloy wheels with Satin Dark Grey finish. The R-Dynamic SE offers 20-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5079’ alloy wheels in Gloss Black. The R-Dynamic HSE features 21-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5078’ alloy wheels with Gloss Black finish. The Edition model includes unique 20-inch 5-split spoke ‘Style 5089’ alloy wheels with Dark Satin Grey finish and contrast diamond-turned face.
Does the audio system vary between different Discovery Sport trim levels?
- Yes, the audio system gets progressively better through the trim levels. The S and R-Dynamic S include a 180W system with six speakers. The R-Dynamic SE features a Meridian™ Sound System with 12 speakers and a 400W amplifier. The R-Dynamic HSE and Edition models offer a premium Meridian™ Surround Sound System with 14 speakers and 650W output, providing a more immersive audio experience with Trifield™ 3D technology.
Which trim levels include the ClearSight Ground View technology?
- The ClearSight Ground View technology, which uses cameras to create a virtual “transparent hood” view on the touchscreen, is exclusive to the R-Dynamic HSE and Edition trim levels. This feature is handy for off-road driving, allowing drivers to see obstacles directly beneath the front of the vehicle, and for urban navigation, helping to avoid curbs and other obstacles when parking.