LAND Rover's Discovery has netted a brace of national accolades - sparking a deluge of pre-orders at a Basingstoke dealership.

The two gongs, scooped at What MPV and 4x4? magazine's recent awards ceremony, has ignited interest with buyers at Webbers Land Rover.

The machine beat off stiff competition from the BMW X5 and Mitsubishi Outlander in the awards to take the coveted titles.

The firm picked up the "4x4 of the Year" title for the Discovery 3, while Land Rover was also named "4x4 Manufacturer of the Year" by the magazine.

Judges described the Discovery 3 as having "superb refinement, comfort and driveability".

They were also impressed with its "MPV-style seven-seat practicality".

Webbers Land Rover dealer principal Andrew Childs said: "We knew the new Discovery 3 would be an instant hit, but to win a national award before it has even been launched demonstrates the sheer ability of this amazing vehicle.

"Its appeal stems from its unique, bold styling and driver-friendly technology, described by the judges as a 'champion off-roader - whoever is behind the wheel'. We couldn't agree more."

The vehicle's dynamic control system - Terrain response - was singled out for praise by the magazine's experts.

They liked its ability to allow the driver to control the vehicle's functions, such as Hill Descent Control, throttle response, suspension settings and electronic traction control, simply by selecting one of five terrain settings.

Mr Childs added: "With Land Rover once again beating its competitors to the top spot in these awards, it's little wonder local drivers are clamouring to get their hands on the latest award-winning addition to the family.

"The critics are already big fans and it seems that Basingstoke drivers are too."

The new Disco starts at £26,995 for the entry-level five-seat TDV6 and rising to £46,995 for the high-specification V8 HSE.

The TDV6 five-seat model, featuring Land Rover's new V6 diesel engine, comes with alloy wheels, air conditioning, CD player and a six-speed manual gearbox as standard.

Drivers wanting the ultimate all-new Discovery can opt for the V8 HSE at £46,995.

This version boasts satellite navigation with voice-recognition technology, Hill Descent Control, a Harmon Kardon in-car entertainment system, leather seats and automatic Bi-Xenon headlights.

For further information on the Discovery 3, contact Webbers Land Rover on 01256 300615 or call into the dealership in Southern Road.