While the second generation of the Discovery was marketed as evolution more than a revolution, the 2002 model was just a minor facelift.
In 1998, Land Rover thought that electronics could replace the old-school mechanical parts that transformed a regular 4x4 into a serious off-road vehicle. Shortly after, it noticed the hard way that a computer-controlled traction system cannot replace the locking differentials.

For 2002, Land Rover introduced a series of modifications that changed the car’s look and added more comfort features inside. On the outside, the new headlights offered a multi-lamp arrangement while its predecessor featured plain, squared units. The bumper was also revised, and, depending on the trim level, it featured a pair of fog-lights.

Inside, the carmaker was keener for details and installed better seats and new upholstery options. Like its predecessor, it offered with an option for seven seats, but only for vehicles fitted with rear air suspension. In the safety department, Land Rover added side airbags and an all-leather interior. The Active Cornering Enhancement system (ACE) acted as an anti-roll-over one. It used the brake system to balance the vehicle, and, due to the electronically controlled stabilizer bars, it reduced body-roll.

On the technical side, the most significant improvement was the reintroduction of the locking center differential. The base version had it available as an option, while it was standard on the HS and HSE versions.