The Land Rover Discovery has long been known for its rugged off-road capabilities and luxurious on-road comfort. But for those who need to tow boats, trailers or other recreational vehicles, one key specification is the Discovery’s towing capacity.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 2020 Land Rover Discovery towing capacities, including:
- Max towing capacity
- Towing packages and upgrades
- How towing capacity compares to other Land Rover models
- Tips for safe towing in the Discovery
2020 Land Rover Discovery Max Towing Capacity
The maximum towing capacity for the 2020 Land Rover Discovery is 8,201 pounds when properly equipped with the available heavy duty towing package. This allows the Discovery to confidently pull a variety of recreational trailers and toys.
Without the heavy duty package, the standard Discovery tow rating is 7,716 pounds. While still quite respectable, the heavy duty package provides an extra 485 pounds of towing muscle.
Towing capacities can vary slightly by powertrain and drive configuration. Here’s a breakdown of the different 2020 Discovery tow ratings:
- Discovery S w/ 3.0L Supercharged V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery SE w/ 3.0L Supercharged V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery HSE w/ 3.0L Supercharged V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery HSE Luxury w/ 3.0L Supercharged V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery S w/ 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery SE w/ 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery HSE w/ 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery HSE Luxury w/ 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6, 8-speed automatic: 7,716 lbs
- All models with Heavy Duty Tow Package: 8,201 lbs
As you can see, the different gas and diesel engines offer identical tow ratings. Only the heavy duty tow package unlocks the maximum 8,201 pound towing capacity.
Towing Packages for the 2020 Discovery
To reach the full towing potential of the Discovery, you’ll need to add the available Heavy Duty Tow Package. This is an optional upgrade that adds:
- Heavy duty engine cooling system
- Upgraded rear suspension components
- Wider rear tires
- Tow hitch receiver with trailer light module
With these enhancements, the Discovery’s towing system is strengthened to handle loads up to 8,201 pounds without straining.
The Heavy Duty Tow Package is standard on the top-trim HSE Luxury and available on other Discovery models for $1,015 added cost.
Without the package, the Discovery is still rated to tow a substantial 7,716 pounds. But for anyone who needs maximum towing muscle, the heavy duty upgrades are important.
How Discovery Tow Ratings Compare to Other Land Rovers
The Discovery has excellent towing capabilities for a luxury SUV. But how does it compare against other Land Rover models?
Here’s a quick rundown of max tow ratings across the Land Rover lineup:
- Range Rover Sport: 7,716 lbs
- Range Rover Velar: 5,512 lbs
- Range Rover Evoque: 4,409 lbs
- Range Rover: 7,716 lbs
- Discovery Sport: 4,409 lbs
- Discovery: 8,201 lbs (with Heavy Duty Tow Package)
The Discovery clearly leads the pack with its 8,201 pound max tow rating. The Range Rover Sport ties the Discovery’s rating without the tow package, while the Range Rover matches it as well.
But for sheer towing muscle, the Discovery is King of the Land Rover hill. The available heavy duty upgrades allow it to confidently tow where other luxury SUVs would falter.
Tips for Safe Towing in the Discovery
While the Discovery has phenomenal towing capabilities, it’s important to tow responsibly and safely. Here are some tips:
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Follow tow ratings – Never exceed the Discovery’s max towing capacities, even if you have the heavy duty tow package. Overloading can risk damage or accidents.
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Use a weight distribution hitch – This transfers tongue weight across all axles for stable handling. The Discovery’s air suspension can self-level when hitched.
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Load trailer correctly – Balance the load evenly and don’t exceed your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. Nose-heavy trailers can sway.
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Adjust driving habits – Accelerate, brake and take corners more gradually when towing. Allow extra distance for stopping.
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Check side mirrors – Properly adjusted mirrors are vital for seeing around a tow trailer. The Discovery’s power-folding mirrors help tow visibility.
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Verify lights work – Make sure all trailer brake lights, turn signals and running lights function properly before each trip.
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Maintain speed – Obey all posted speed limits, but avoid travelling too slowly on highways. This can be just as dangerous as speeding.
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Use Tow/Haul mode – This adjusts transmission shifting patterns to better handle heavy loads.
Following these tips will keep you and your Discovery safe while confidently towing all your recreational gear. With a max capacity of 8,201 pounds, the Discovery can handle virtually any non-commercial towing need.
The Takeaway on Discovery Towing
With the available Heavy Duty Tow Package, the 2020 Land Rover Discovery provides an exceptional max towing capacity of 8,201 pounds. This allows it to confidently tow boats, ATV trailers, horse trailers, campers and more that exceed the limits of other luxury SUVs.
The Discovery matches the tow ratings of larger Range Rover models, while besting the capacities of the Range Rover Sport and other Land Rover SUVs. So whether you need to pull sports gear into the wilderness or hitch up at the boat ramp, the Discovery has the strength to handle it.
Just be sure to follow all safe towing practices, never exceed vehicle or trailer weight limits, and equip your Discovery properly for heavy towing needs. Used wisely, the Discovery’s robust towing capabilities let you bring all your recreational toys wherever adventure takes you.
