Land Rover LR3
Intro
This model is a recent offering from Land Rover that will replace the glory that was the Discovery series. From this model year on, the Discovery will be no more.
Specs
Engine: 216hp 4.0L V-6 or 300hp 4.4L V-8
Transmission: 6 speed automatic with Over Drive
0-60mph: ~9 seconds
Avg MPG: 14 in the city and 19 on the highway
What we Think
The new LR is a splendid little ride. Granted it is no Range Rover, but hey, it is also only $38 at its base model. You get a decent amount of SUV for that sub $40k price tag as well. The engine is rock solid even at the V-6 level and off-road capabilities are what you would expect from Land Rover. The new Terrain Response system is a definite plus and we certainly like the new powertrain on this baby. Much of an improvement over the Discovery series. The SUV comes equipped with permanent 4WD and a nice 6 speed automatic. The suspension is fully independent and provides superb handling (for an SUV) and the ride is pretty solid. When we say the ride is good, we are not saying you can compare it to that of the Range, but for the class it is quite good. The ride was a little stiff, but that again is to be expected from any LR offering.
The styling is a pretty big improvement over the Discovery series and horrible Freelander. That being said, it certaily isn't breathtaking. The stance is a little weak for us, but we do appreciate the refined and open rear-end. Many complaints have been hurled the LR3's way due to the large open window design in the rear, but we personally like it. The plastic surrounding the wheel well is hideous and makes the car look cheap. We wish they would have stuck with sharp clean lines that have made the Range so stunning over the past few redesigns. Continuing with our design rants, we move to the interior. It looks like Lego-Land in here. We don't know WHAT the designers were thinking. We don't even know how to describe the interior except it looks like a bunch of giant legos. Very unappealing. To top that off, the controls are next to impossible to use and the third row folding seat is very hard to get down.
Fuel economy is certainly an issue. Despite the engine's strong performance it is horrible on gas mileage. At 14 MPG in the city, you can expect to spend a good chunk of your time at the pump. And with gas prices trending the way they are, we suggest you look elsewhere in the $40k SUV market. There is just no excuse for numbers this low. Pure inefficiency. And our final rant is the overall cargo design. From the glove box to the rear main cargo storage, everything is poorly designed and not very functional. Stay away from the Land Rover LR3 like the plague!