2007 Land Rover LR3 Review

The LR3 is a midsize SUV that replaced the Discovery in 2005. Able to seat up to seven passengers, and possessing Land Rover’s legendary off-road prowess, the LR3 brings everything you’d expect from a Land Rover. It was named Motor Trend’s “SUV of the Year” in 2005, and was nominated for the “North American Truck of the Year” that year.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Land Rover LR3 is an all-around solid off-road luxury SUV. This year’s updates make its high pricetag much more palatable, and bring it in line with the likes of BMW and Lexus. However, its rather inefficient engine provides substandard horsepower and fuel economy. But all in all, it’s one of the most advanced off-road vehicles on the planet that other luxury marquees just can’t match.

What’s New For 2007:

A number of upgrades come for this year. A leather interior, power moonroof, and a Harman/Kardon sound system are now standard. One-touch power windows, driver lumbar adjuster, and a clock are now standard. The V8 model now include a standard third row seat, among other upgrades.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power information is not available. Problems with the LR3 include malfunctioning electrical components in the doors, water leaks, and damaged wiring. It’s been recalled for detaching fuel tank pipes, park not engaging, and incorrectly built seat belt buckles. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, hill-descent control, parking sensors, and stability and traction control come standard. Adaptive headlights are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Advanced safety features
+ Plenty of cargo space
+ Strong off-road performance

Cons
– Weak engine
– Unknown crashworthiness
– Poor gas mileage

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Acura MDX includes a standard third row and navigation, but costs $2,000 more. The BMW X3 offers over 40 more hp and four more miles to the gallon, but costs nearly $4,500 more, and lacks leather seats, and a CD changer. The Lexus RX 400h has 50 more hp and gets up to 16 more miles to the gallon, but costs $1,000 more and lacks standard leather.

What Others Are Saying:

“After all day in the LR3, my personal adventure quota for the day was definitely fulfilled. On the way back to the hotel, I couldn’t help keeping an eye out for tawny fur in the underbrush, or listening for a roar in the distance. I didn’t get to go on safari, but I did feel the pull of the outdoors and the satisfaction that if I needed to go off-road, I was in a vehicle built for it.” – Road and Travel

“LR3 is a terrific sport-utility vehicle if daily practicality and honest, go-anywhere capability are dear to you, and if adornment, sleek styling, good fuel economy and a low price aren’t.” – USA Today

“But, with most of the competition being both lighter and more equipped for on-road duty, the LR3 lags behind the likes of the Volvo, VW and especially the BMW X5. The LR3 makes its way through turns rather than carving them; push harder and the traction and stability controls push back. That’s great for safety, but the fact that these electronic babysitters are necessary even under light attempts at sporty driving highlights some of the shortcomings of having a tall, square framework.” – Forbes

Read more about the 2007 Land Rover LR3 at the Land Rover manufacturer web site.