2012 Land Rover LR4 Review

Overview

Land Rover's LR4 replaced the ace LR3 SUV for the 2010 model year. The LR4 came with an all-new powertrain, a more luxurious interior and chassis refinements and it enters the 2011 model year with additional dynamic control features and a new available Vision Assist Package. The LR4 takes on the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Lexus GX 470. It was showcased at the 2009 New York Auto Show and truly reflects Land Rover's dynamic design with smart and spacious interiors and an abundance of advanced technologies. It is available in two trims - HSE and HSE LUX. The enhancements to the Terrain Response system bolster the LR4's already considerable off-road capability, while new and reconfigured option packages enhance luxury and value.

Power and performance

The four-wheel-drive LR4 features a new larger and powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine that makes 375 horsepower and 375 pounds-feet of torque, and benefits from direct-injection technology. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Land Rover's Terrain Response system gets two new features in the LR4 to help navigate sandy or steep terrain.

Body and styling

The Land Rover LR4 features easy-to-use controls, a convenient console and all models are equipped with a steering wheel with switches to access driver information and operate the audio system, cruise control and steering wheel heating (if so equipped). The standard features include leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof. The handcrafted feel gets enhanced by a choice of natural-finish woods, along with stitched and wrapped fascia, door casings and center console. A 5-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) driver information LCD screen within the instrument cluster displays key information in a clean, simple and user-friendly manner in all LR4 models. Some features that are new in the Land Rover LR4 are Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control which help the driver negotiate severe slopes/gradients encountered in off-road driving conditions, Bluetooth phone connectivity now standard on base LR4, seven-Seat Comfort Package is added to HSE and HSE LUX; includes third-row seat, head curtain airbags, climate control, map lamps and an accessory power socket and rear View Camera standard with HSE (previously optional). Halogen headlamps on the HSE Package now include LED Signature Lighting. Climate Comfort Package is now a standalone option on LR4 base model and HSE and included in HSE LUX. Premium Audio Upgrade available on HSE Package. The New Vision Assist Package for HSE and HSE LUX Packages includes xenon HID headlamps (HSE only, already standard on HSE LUX); Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS; swiveling headlights); Automatic High Beam Assist (AHBA) and a Surround Camera System; power-folding mirrors; Trailer Assist and Trailer Hitch Assist.

Safety Features

Standard safety features include antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags and an electronic stability system.