2009 Land Rover LR3
by Jim Prueter -02/2009

Thinking outside the box

It’s been a little over four years since we first tested the LR3, the replacement for the Land Rover Discovery.

The LR3 was initially offered in a single model powered by a Jaguar-built V-8 engine. For 2009, it’s available as SE ($49,300) or HSE ($54,800) models.

Both models are well-equipped and come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, two-speed transfer case and full-time four-wheel drive, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Power is provided by the 4.4-liter 300-horsepower V-8 supplied by fellow Brit manufacturer, Jaguar. Both vehicles are built in the United Kingdom, but are owned by Indian auto manufacturer Tata Motors.

Beginning in 2009, two-row seating is now standard and three-rows, previously standard, is optional. The LR3 also gets standard 19-inch aluminum wheels for 2009.

We tested a top-of-the-line HSE model with optional third-row seating and rear climate control ($1150).

Our weeklong test drive in the LR3 included a trip to Bisbee and some mild off-road driving. It’s a terrific sport utility with a surprisingly comfortable on-road ride, unusual for such a capable “go-anywhere” off-roader. Most vehicles can do one or the other, but not both. Handling and cornering is a bit on the tippy side, but standard stability control keeps it under control in emergency maneuvers.

Like all Land Rover products, the LR3 has considerable all-terrain capabilities and features the Terrain Response System. A console-mounted dial displays five icons that can be selected for conditions including snow-grass-gravel; mud and ruts; sand; and rock crawl. Simply select the condition and the vehicle automatically sets itself to adapt.

But I found the LR3 to be a bit like rabbit hunting with an elephant gun. Its off-road capabilities far exceed what any city-dweller or suburbanite will ever encounter. Try as I might, I just couldn’t find any off-road terrain worthy of the numerous Terrain Response System settings. And, at a price point only the well-to-do can afford, and with luxury markers like plush leather interior and fancy exterior paint jobs, it’s unlikely that many LR3s will ford much more than a deep puddle or hop a curb marker at the country club. Car-buyers of this ilk tend to fume over door dings, let alone off-road brush scratches. But then, not everyone who buys $150 running shoes jogs.

That doesn’t diminish the immense capabilities. Surprisingly, Land Rover says that 40 percent of their owners take their Rovers off-road.

The 300-horsepower V-8 felt smooth, but only adequate, due mainly to the nearly three tons of curb weight it has to haul around. That’s several hundred pounds heavier than a Chevy Suburban and it punishes the wallet by returning just 13 miles per gallon on the required premium gas.

The added weight is attributed to the heft of the Rover’s unique suspension. LR3 uses car-like unibody construction, mounted on a truck-style full frame. Most vehicles employ one or the other, but not both. The benefit is a rattle-free car-like ride on paved surfaces, plus the off-road toughness and towing capacity of a truck.

All three rows of seats are comfortable with ample room for adults, unusual for mid-size vehicles with a third row. Seating positions are high, with second row stadium style, affording excellent visibility from all seats. In addition to a sunroof, the LR3 has two additional glass roof panels that don’t open but add light and contribute to a spacious feeling inside.

Inside, the LR3 is thoughtfully crafted with a look that’s unmistakably Land Rover — albeit re-crafted for a more contemporary appeal. The look is more functional and utilitarian than luxurious a la Cadillac SRX, Volvo XC90 or Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

The seats are trimmed in rich perforated English leather, matte-finish metal, and grained plastics rather than glossy wood and shiny chrome. The dash is functional with a geometric look. All gauges and dials are simple and intuitive to use.

Outside, the LR3 is basically a three-box design with short overhangs, a Range Rover-like grille and a tiered roofline, a carryover from the Discovery it replaced. It’s great looking up front, but not so much out back where you’ll find an exaggerated box look and odd-styled tailgate and window.

The standard safety gear includes the expected front, side and curtain airbags. LR3 also includes anti-lock brakes with brakeforce distribution, cornering brake control, emergency brake assist and hill-descent control.

If you like to off-road, appreciate luxury appointments and aren’t concerned with gas mileage, then the LR3 is a sweet ride you should consider. If you prefer an SUV more on the luxury side and could care less about off-road abilities, check out the Cadillac SRX, BMW X5 or Volvo XC90. The Lexus GX 470 will deliver luxury and off-road ability but the third-row will barely accommodate an adolescent.

With the demise in popularity of crossover utility vehicles that can do nearly everything, and with unstable gasoline prices, it remains to be seen where vehicles like the LR3 fit in. Then again, with its off-the-beaten-path capability and its distinctive nameplate, the LR3 should be around for the long haul.