Land Rover concept targets the shooting set

Time was that a Land Rover was the choice of the rural hunting, shooting and fishing set, and the legendary British brand has now unveiled a Discovery-based concept with that audience very much in mind.

The one-off 'Country Pursuits' concept has been created by Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, with estate managers and conservation organisations in mind, but it's sure to appeal to those who enjoy traditional countryside sports, too.

Tackling the roughest of rural roads should be child's play for the beefed-up Discovery, whose off-road prowess is enhanced by chunky mud-terrain Goodyear Wrangler tyres around its 19-inch alloy wheels, while a subdued Aintree Green paint finish and contrasting grey roof should ensure the big SUV isn't a blot on the landscape.

Based on the HSE Luxury model with a 3.0-litre TD6 diesel engine, the Country Pursuits Concept makes good use of the Discovery's versatile interior. While the car's standard rear-seat entertainment package and ebony leather-trimmed climate seats remain in place, the third row has been replaced with something far more specialised.

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In its place, you'll find a lockable cabinet for four guns, incorporating two lower drawers for gun cartridges and accessories, finished in an ebony veneer. The rest of the concept's rear section is devoted to space for two hunting dogs, or for hanging the game caught after a day's shooting.

With the latest Discovery already a common sight in Britain's roads, the Country Pursuits was created by SVO in response to customer enquiries for just such a vehicle. The one example built will be shown to country estate managers and other rural organisations to gauge the reactions of potential buyers.

An HSE Luxury-based production model is a distinct possibility, priced at around £80,000. Alternatively, for around £5,000, existing Discovery owners could have the conversion carried out on their own car.