Thinking outside the box

It’s been just a little over two years since I first tested the LR3, a 2005 replacement for the Discovery. The LR3 was initially offered in a single model powered by a Jaguar-built V-8 engine. It’s now available in three models: the V-6 SE ($42,150), the V-8 SE ($48,950) and the V-8 HSE ($53,950).

All 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.

New for 2007 are a standard power sunroof and a 240-watt Harman/Kardon nine-speaker sound system with steering-wheel controls for the V-6 model. V-8 models get standard three-row seven-passenger seating. Power lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat and front passenger-side one-touch up/down power window capability are available on most models. A clock has been added to the instrument cluster.

I tested a top-of-the-line HSE model with the optional Luxury Package ($1750) that includes adaptive front lights, cold-climate package with a center console refrigerator-like cooler box (it really keeps drinks cold) and optional Sirius satellite radio ($400).

My 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. The LR3 felt a bit tippy during cornering, but standard stability control keeps it under control during 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 like snow-grass-gravel, mud and ruts, sand, and rock crawl. Simply select the terrain, and the vehicle automatically adapts.

The standard air-suspension system raises ground clearance from the normal 7.3 inches to 10.6 inches when off-road is chosen. Land Rover says that 40 percent of owners take their Rovers off-road.

The 300-horsepower V-8 is smooth but merely adequate, due mainly to the nearly three tons of curb weight it has to haul around. LR3 is several hundred pounds heavier than a Chevy Suburban and punishes the wallet by returning just 13 miles per gallon on the required premium gas.

The added weight is attributed to the heft of Rover’s unique suspension. LR3 uses car-like unibody construction, mounted on a truck-style full frame. Most vehicles use one or the other, not both. The benefit is a rattle-free car-like ride on paved surfaces with 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. The third row is optional on the V-6 SE. Seating positions are high with a stadium-style second row affording excellent visibility from all seats. In addition to a sunroof, the LR3 has two glass roof panels that don’t open, but lend a spacious feeling to the interior.

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 functional and utilitarian rather than luxurious á la Cadillac SRX or Volvo XC90.

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

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

Standard safety gear includes the expected front, side and curtain airbags. Third-row side curtain airbags are optional on the V-6. LR3 also includes anti-lock brakes with brakeforce distribution (EDB), cornering brake control, emergency brake assist and hill descent control.

If you like to off-road yet appreciate luxury accommodations and aren’t concerned with poor gas mileage, then the LR3 is one sweet ride. Like an SUV with luxury and could care less about off-road abilities? Then check out the Cadillac SRX, BMW X5 or Volvo XC90. The Lexus GX470 will deliver luxury and off-road ability but the third-row will barely accommodate an adolescent.

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

 

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