New Land Rover Discovery vs Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC90

Land Rover’s new Discovery promises to be the definitive do-anything seven-seater. But first it has to beat the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. We find out which is best...

Infotainment systems

Audi Q7

 

New Land Rover Discovery vs Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC90

Audi’s MMI system is operated via a rotary dial controller by the gear selector, but you can also make inputs using a touchpad. This, along with its responsive, intuitive menus – viewed on a pop-up 8.3in screen – makes it the least distracting to use on the move. Sat-nav, Bluetooth, a DAB radio and an embedded 4G data connection are standard, as is a 10-speaker sound system.


Land Rover Discovery

 

New Land Rover Discovery vs Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC90

HSE trim comes with the top-spec InControl Touch Pro system and a 10.0in touchscreen. Mostly it works well enough, but there’s distinct lag after some inputs and hitting the icons on the move can be difficult. Rather than mirroring your phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the Discovery has its own system of connectivity and apps and includes a wi-fi hotspot. The stereo has the most power and sounds the clearest.


Volvo XC90

 

New Land Rover Discovery vs Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC90

Volvo’s 9.0in touchscreen is arranged like a tablet and controls most of the car’s features, including the climate control; we’d prefer easier-to-use physical buttons for this. It’s packed with features, including sat-nav, Bluetooth and a DAB radio. The screen is an extremely high-definition one that’s quick to respond, but the bewildering array of menus and numerous small icons can prove distracting while driving.