When we contacted the...

When we contacted the Midlands 4x4 marque, a spokesman told us: "No decision has been made yet." However, our sources insist the Disco will appear first at the New York Motor Show in early April. As Americans don"t buy diesels, this will be a petrol model - leaving the way clear for the oil-burner to take the stage for the first time at the British exhibition a month later.

The news illustrates how important bosses at Land Rover view their home motor show, and is another shot in the arm for the revamped event. If, as we expect, it"s confirmed by the company in the next few weeks, it does mean British fans will probably be denied the chance to see the new Range Stormer, featured on the cover of last week"s magazine. That"s partly because this model would steal some of the limelight from the Discovery, although the fact that bespoke motor show prototypes cost a fortune to keep in pristine condition will also have a bearing. The Range Stormer"s designer, Geoff Upex, explained: "The new car will appear at Chicago next month and then Geneva in March, but that will probably be it."

Four manufacturers have confirmed they will have cars taking part in the outdoor 4x4 course at the British Motor Show. The event will let visitors put the latest off-roaders through their paces or be driven around the course by experts.

Toyota will have the RAV4 and Land Cruiser, Nissan will offer the X-Trail, Hyundai the Santa Fe and Terracan and Volvo the XC90. Two or three more firms are tipped to reveal their participation soon.