FLEETS are getting a sneak preview of the new Discovery as Land Rover attempts to make inroads into the executive company car market. Fleet NewsNet has learned that the more 'refined' vehicle is being put through its paces by the managing directors of several 'exclusive and valued' companies.

And with the new Discovery believed to be coming in on November 21 with a hefty price increase of about 10% across the board, bringing the basic model price up to around £23,500, fleets will be looking for some major improvements. Officially the Discovery will first come under public scrutiny at its world debut at the British International Motor Show in Birmingham, which runs from October 21 until November 1.

A Rover spokesman said: 'Obviously at this stage we cannot say too much, but can confirm that a number of exclusive and valued customers are being allowed to view the vehicle. Fleets are certain to be interested in the changes to the Discovery and we are allowing highly regarded managing directors to see the vehicle. It is not possible to name names.'