Land Rover Discovery 2.2 SD4 Engine Problems
Land Rover’s Discovery Sport is a popular vehicle choice among enthusiasts and regular users alike. One of the crucial considerations when purchasing a Discovery Sport, or any car for that matter, is the engine type. For those considering the Land Rover Discovery Sport, the choice between the 2.2 and 2.0 engine variant can be quite challenging, especially with the murmurs about potential issues with the 2.0 version.
A Glimpse into the 2.2 SD4 Engine
The Discovery Sport (DS) 2.2 was available from its launch in 2015 to the early months of 2016. This variant features a Ford engine, which had been previously used in the Freelander 2. The general consensus among users who have had the vehicle for a few years is quite positive. For instance, vehicles nearing the 35,000-mile mark have reported minimal issues, with one of the few being the Haldex pump. This is noteworthy considering that some other Land Rover engines, particularly the Ingenium, seem to have had more problems.
Performance-wise, the 2.2 SD4 has proven satisfactory for many users. Despite not matching the power of something like a V8 400bhp Jaguar, it does the job efficiently. Plus, the vehicle offers the added benefits of being spacious and comfortable for passengers.
The Emissions Dilemma
One of the notable drawbacks of the 2.2 SD4 engine is that it adheres to the EU5 emissions standard and not the more stringent EU6. The importance of this distinction becomes clear when considering the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) issue. Vehicles with a transverse engine installation, like the Discovery Sport, do not have adequate space for a combined DPF/Adblue unit in the engine bay. As a result, the unit is positioned under the vehicle where temperatures can be less than optimal. This placement can cause complications, especially during active regenerations when diesel is used to burn off exhaust soot.
For those not familiar with the intricacies of DPFs, frequent short journeys can interrupt regenerations, leading to oil dilution. Thus, the 2.2 SD4 is not ideal for those who primarily use their vehicle for short trips or town usage.
Comparing the 2.2 and the 2.0
While the Ingenium engine (2.0 variant) is more refined and conforms to the EU6 emissions standard, some users argue that the primary issue isn’t the engine itself but rather the Euro6 compliant exhaust system attached to it. With the 2.0, several users have experienced multiple oil changes within short periods, which can be an inconvenience.
For those considering mileage and fuel consumption, real-world feedback indicates that there’s not a significant difference between the 2.2 and 2.0. For instance, a 2015 DS 2.2 might give around 38 mpg on a long journey and 33-35mpg in city conditions. Comparatively, the 2.0 variant might hover around 33-34mpg in mixed conditions.
The Verdict
In conclusion, for those primarily concerned about DPF issues and short trips, the 2015 Discovery Sport 2.2 SD4 seems like a more reliable bet. Not only is it potentially more reliable in this regard, but it’s also often cheaper to purchase. However, it’s essential to remember that each vehicle is unique, and individual experiences may vary. For a more extensive discussion and insights from users, it might be beneficial to check out dedicated forums and threads discussing these engines.
