Over the years, Land Rover has provided plenty of classic models, but there are few that compete with the LR3. Discontinued in 2009, it might not be on the production line any longer, but this doesn’t mean that demand for the model has stopped. Today, we’re going to dig deeper into this model and learn more!
Table of Contents
History
First announced in April 2004, the LR3 took some key components from the Discovery. However, a new body construction method was devised and was quickly named IBF (Integrated Body Frame). Important features included the full independent suspension (FIS) and the other off-road components. Essentially, when off-road, users would have ground clearance by raising the vehicle. When driving at speed, the vehicle lowers, and handling improves.
In the first 2005 model, it came with a 300HP V8 engine, six-speed automatic, carried up to seven passengers, and was a permanent 4WD. One year later, the 2006 iteration entered the market and offered drivers an opportunity to enjoy a new V6 engine. What’s more, a five-passenger model was now available.
In 2007, the peak of the LR3, the SUV changed the engine again. Although the 300HP V8 was still available, the new option was a 216HP V6. Then came the classic, the 2008 LR3. On many websites across the internet, it has the best reviews of all five models and a whopping 97% of drivers recommend the vehicle to others on Cars.com. Land Rover went back to the 300HP V8 engine alone and the car seated seven people.
Finally, we saw the 2009 LR3. Fuel economy might have been a problem and the controls may have been a little awkward, but the off-road capabilities were stronger than most. Elsewhere, drivers enjoyed the Terrain Response technology and the vehicle seemed to enter a new world of technology without stepping away from the classic Land Rover heritage.
Popularity
Through the five launches, the LR3 found a particular market, and this market has been passionate and loyal in the decade since the final 2009 model. For many car owners, even those who have moved on, they claim the LR3 as their favorite ever SUV. Why? Though the MPG on the road was never too impressive, it came alive when used off-road.
In the later models, the Terrain Response system was exclusive to Land Rover and allowed drivers to adapt the driving experience to their needs. While some chose ‘sand and dunes’, others went for ‘mud and ruts’. Even though the MPG wasn’t the best, the vehicle still handled well on the road. When conditions are tricky, handling doesn’t suffer thanks to the central-locking differential.
What’s more, the LR3 had and has flexibility. For those with a big family, the second row has plenty of space. Meanwhile, the third row can either be kept as seating or tucked away for more storage space in the back. Even after this, we could point towards the Harman Kardon sound system (with NINE speakers), the rear parking distance control, dual-zone climate control, power heated mirrors, advanced navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, front park-distance control, and a whole lot more.
Of course, how could we finish without mentioning the beauty and durability of the vehicle? With these two in tow, the LR3 remains as popular today as it was upon release. The interior is stylish, the exterior instantly recognizable, and the LR3 a model that made waves in the SUV market!