Land Rover Discovery Gets American Muscle: 550 HP V8 Transformation

Daily Car

17/12/2025

A remarkable transformation has turned a third-generation Land Rover Discovery, known in the US as the LR3, into an American muscle-inspired powerhouse. This unassuming SUV now boasts a potent 550 horsepower V8 engine, delivering performance that dramatically contrasts with its original capabilities. The project, undertaken by Legacy Overland, retains the vehicle's classic off-road character while injecting a significant dose of raw power.

Key Takeaways

A stroked 6.8-liter LS3 V8 engine now powers the LR3, producing 550 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque.
The original 4x4 system and British electronics remain functional.
Upgrades include custom driveshafts, reinforced crossmembers, new suspension, and an enhanced braking system.
The exterior remains largely original, with subtle additions like a winch and roof rack.
The interior features retrimmed leather seats, new gauges, and an updated infotainment display.

A Heart Transplant for the LR3

The original LR3, while capable, was never a performance vehicle, topping out at around 300 horsepower. This modified version replaces the factory engine with a GM-sourced LS3 V8, which has been stroked to 6.8 liters. This upgrade results in an impressive 550 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque, nearly doubling the original output.

Seamless Integration and Enhanced Capability

One of the most impressive aspects of this build is Legacy Overland's claim that both the new V8 engine and the GM 6L80 automatic transmission have been programmed to work in conjunction with the Land Rover's original electronics. This ensures that the full-time four-wheel-drive system and other core Land Rover systems remain fully operational, preserving the vehicle's renowned off-road prowess.

Beyond the Engine: Comprehensive Upgrades

In addition to the massive engine swap, the LR3 has received a suite of other enhancements. These include:

Custom driveshafts for improved durability.
Reinforced crossmembers to handle the increased power.
A completely new suspension system.
An upgraded braking system with new pads for better stopping power.

Subtle Exterior and Refined Interior

Visually, the modified LR3 maintains a low profile, avoiding ostentatious modifications that would betray its newfound power. Subtle additions like a front winch, a rear ladder, and a roof rack hint at its enhanced capabilities. Polished exhaust tips are among the few visual cues to the V8 lurking beneath the hood.

The interior also retains much of its original layout but benefits from significant refinements. The seats have been reupholstered in plush new leather, new gauges provide essential information, and an updated infotainment display has been integrated, connecting to key vehicle systems. While the upgraded audio system is present, it's likely the roar of the V8 will be the preferred soundtrack for the new owner.

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