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2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 11, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport Report

Overall Score

5.7/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Discovery Sport's primary ownership concern revolves around a high number of recalls for seat belt retractors, indicating a potential systemic issue that requires verification of repair.
  • Despite a significant recall count, consumer complaints are notably absent, suggesting manufacturer proactive measures or incomplete complaint data.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 20 MPG, though premium fuel is required.
  • The vehicle's safety ratings are not available from NHTSA, making a thorough inspection of its safety systems, particularly the seat belts, even more critical.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport

The 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport presents a compelling blend of upscale interior appointments and off-road capability, wrapped in a practical compact SUV package. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, delivers adequate power for daily driving and confident traction in various conditions. While the cabin offers a refined atmosphere, buyers should be aware of the vehicle's 'Below Average' reliability assessment, largely influenced by a high volume of recalls related to critical safety components, specifically seat belt retractors. Despite a low complaint count, these recalls signal potential systemic issues that necessitate thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential issues with both front and rear seat belt retractors, specifically the automatic locking mechanism. This can prevent proper securing of child restraint systems or occupants.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls98
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.1/ 10

Practicality

3.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing a premium interior and brand cachet in a compact SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal ownership risk and predictable running costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
98 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport is 7.1/10. Reliability score is 7.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 98. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport is 5.7/10. Overall score is 5.7/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 3.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Seat Belt Retractor (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 Discovery Sport require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

10 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Land Rover Discovery Sport?▾

This model year has 98 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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