2007 Land Rover LR3

For 2007, the Land Rover LR3 receives a number of enhancements.

All models receive a driver’s power lumbar control, three-flash lane change, a clock in the instrument cluster, one-touch actuation on the passenger window, and front power seat controls that operate with the ignition key on or off.

All V6 models now receive the SE Premium Package as standard equipment, while the V8 SE receives a standard Rear Seat and Climate Package for three-row seating, and rear park distance control. Both V6 and V8 SE models receive new 18-inch alloy wheels.

The LR3 is available as the V6, with a Ford-sourced 4.0-litre V6, while the V8 SE and V8 HSE use a Jaguar-sourced 4.4-litre V8. All models use a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, permanent four-wheel drive, four-corner height-adjustable air suspension, and electronically-controlled, infinitely-variable locking centre differential. All models also feature Terrain Response, with five driver-selectable settings for general driving, grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, sand, and rock crawl.

Features on the V6 include 18-inch alloy wheels, speed-sensitive steering, six airbags, leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, leather-wrapped wheel, power front sunroof, fixed second-row Alpine glass roof, rear wiper/washer, keyless entry, six-CD stereo, and cargo cover. The V6 can be optioned with a third row of seats.

The V8 SE adds third-row seating, eight airbags, fog lights, automatic headlamps with washers, rain-sensing wipers, rear park distance control, auto-dimming mirror, garage door opener, and puddle and footwell lights.

The HSE adds 19-inch alloy wheels, on- and off-road navigation system, driver’s seat and outside mirror memory, bi-Xenon headlamps, front and rear park distance control, premium stereo and Bluetooth telephone capability.

Available options on the various models include heated seats, centre console cooler box, and rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

The LR3 is Land Rover’s entry-level offering – at least, until the all-new LR2 debuts for 2008 – offering legendary off-road capability in a smaller package. The midsize SUV segment is a crowded one, but with the LR3’s combination of rugged ability, top-end luxury and brand loyalty, it’s pretty much in a spot of its own.