CLAIMING to build the most versatile and capable premium compact SUV is a bold statement of intent by Land Rover.

So its new Discovery Sport, launched earlier this year to replace the popular Freelander model, is a massively important vehicle to the brand.

And if our tested version proves an accurate gauge, then this first member of the new Disco family will continue going above and beyond expectations.

The Discovery Sport features five plus two stadium-style seating, but in a vehicle footprint no larger than existing five-seat prestige off-roaders.

That's in addition to a beautifully appointed cabin with its vertical centre console, 8-inch touchscreen, multiple storage areas, four 12V power points and USB charging sockets for all three rows of seats.

Upmarket HSE Luxury trim with its pale grey perforated leather seats and ebony interior combine with a large glass sunroof to add a bright, airy ambience to a family-friendly cabin.

On that score there's ample space too, provided the third row of seats isn't in use.

If that's the case then you need to slide the middle ones a bit further forward, so reducing legroom.

As for ease of use the back pair of seats couldn't be easier to raise or lower - just a light pull on a tab.

But they are only suitable for kids - in fact only kids would be able to extricate themselves from the back. It's not all claustrophobic though and there are small ideally positioned windows for them to look out of, as well as a couple of cupholders.

In time-honoured Land Rover fashion there's enough technology aboard to launch a space rocket, even if the majority of drivers will seldom use the car's Terrain Response set-up.

This ensures greater off-road ability and operates at the push of a finger for general conditions; sand; mud and ruts; and grass, gravel and snow.

Dial in the latest hill descent control system and there a few conditions the Discovery Sport can't fend off.

This model's power comes via a 2.2 litre turbodiesel engine producing 190bhp, though a 2.0-litre derivative of Jaguar Land Rover's new Ingenium diesel unit - available with either 150 or 180bhp and capable of up to 57.7mpg in 4WD - is about to join the party.

Both nine-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmissions are available.

Safety measures include a bonnet airbag, autonomous emergency braking and a bodyshell constructed from both ultra high strength steel and lightweight aluminium, and the car has also been awarded a five-star Euro N-CAP safety rating.

And customers can choose from 12 exterior colours while an eyecatching Black Pack adds a gloss black grille, door mirror caps, front fender vents, bonnet and tailgate lettering and 20-inch alloy wheels.