2008 Land Rover LR2 Road Test Review

Little Land Rover takes a giant step forward

The second generation of Land Rover’s compact SUV, now called the LR2 instead of the Freelander, slots into the compact segment of the company’s lineup.  Its new design, enhanced power and on-road manners are superior to the Freelander.

Land Rover said the goal of the LR2 is to provide the smooth ride, accomplished performance and attractive cabin of a premium sedan while maintaining the capabilities of an SUV, and it succeeds.

Prices begin at $34,700, and that includes a long list of standard equipment.

The design, which carries cues from both the LR3 and Range Rover Sport, has a geometric simplicity.

The five-door body has a tight and strong structure that enhances both ride comfort and performance.  The fully independent suspension swallows bumps nicely.  Vehicle stability control with rollover sensors is standard.

The LR2 is powered by a 3.2-liter, 230-horsepower, inline six-cylinder engine that is derived from the one used in Volvo’s new S80 sedan.  Ford Motor Company owns both Land Rover and Volvo.

This engine’s overall size has been reduced by mounting most of its accessories directly to the rear of the engine.  Variable valve timing and two camshaft profiles broaden this engine’s power output so it is responsive and efficient at low speeds yet still has high-speed muscle.

The transversely mounted engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually.

The LR2 is primarily an urban SUV that has permanent all-wheel drive.  While I’m sure it can handle moderate off-road work, the lack of a two-speed transfer case means it is not intended for rock climbing or mud plugging.  Gradient Release Control helps hold the vehicle when it starts off on steep or slippery slopes.

The LR2 also uses Land Rover’s Terrain Response system that allows the driver to select different vehicle performance characteristics with a knob on the console.  Terrain Response enhances driving in snow, sand and off-road.

The LR2’s interior has generous head, shoulder and leg room.  The glass areas are large, and rear-seat passengers sit slightly higher than those in front.  A two-part glass sunroof adds to the feeling of openness.

Land Rover said that cargo space is among the best in class.

The steering wheel has fingertip controls for cruise control and the audio system.  The audio system’s menu system can be confusing at times, and the navigation screen does not have a backup camera.  Backup cameras are tremendously helpful in SUVs, and some competing models in this price range have them.

Standard features include keyless ignition, one-touch automatic power windows, bi-xenon headlamps, headlamps that move with the steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rear park distance control.  The navigation system and upgraded audio system with 14 speakers and surround sound, is optional.

The base price of the test vehicle was $34,700.  Options included the navigation system with Bluetooth telephone capabilities and satellite radio, heated front windshield, heated front seats, bi-xenon headlights and memory for the driver’s seat.  The sticker price of our tester was $39,950.