Overview & Reviews
As consumers gravitate toward car-based crossover SUVs, manufacturers are rolling out even more models to meet demand. Luxury-brand automakers have been focusing on introducing small crossover utility vehicles, and one of the first to join this segment was the Land Rover LR2.
The LR2's small size makes it maneuverable in urban environments. At the same time, the LR2 still retains the superior off-road ability for which Land Rovers are known. This dual-purpose approach leaves the Land Rover LR2 in a somewhat compromised position, however. Its on-road performance disappoints, as the LR2 lacks both the straight-line performance and on-road handling feel of its competitors. For the small group of consumers who want a small luxury SUV with a fair amount of all-terrain capability, these sacrifices may have been acceptable when it was introduced, but with Land Rover's stylish and well-rounded Evoque coming on line, the LR2's strengths have faded.
Current Land Rover LR2
The Land Rover LR2 is available in a single trim level. Motivation comes from a 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 230 horsepower and 234 pound-feet of torque. The sole transmission choice is a six-speed automatic with a manual shift mode. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard.
With its reputation for off-road performance to uphold, Land Rover endowed the LR2 with technologies to make it both capable and confident when the journey is off the beaten path. Chief among these is Terrain Response, which is standard on the LR2. Terrain Response adapts the responses of the vehicle's engine, transmission, AWD system, suspension electronics, and stability and hill descent control systems to match the demands of the terrain. It optimizes drivability and comfort as well as maximizing traction. All the driver has to do is select from one of four driving conditions via a rotary knob, and the LR2's computers automatically optimize the vehicle's systems for the selected setting.
The LR2 has a significantly less luxurious cabin than its Land Rover and Range Rover siblings, not to mention its competition. On the upside, many of its standard features are often optional on competitors. These include: keyless ignition/entry; a panoramic dual-panel sunroof with one-touch control; front and rear foglights and power headlamp washers; rain-sensing wipers; rear parking sensors; power leather seats; 18-inch alloy wheels and dual-zone climate control. Notable optional features include a navigation system, memory seating, bi-xenon adaptive front lighting, heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio and a surround-sound audio system.
In reviews and road tests, we've found the Land Rover LR2 to be down on power. When combined with this vehicle's relatively hefty curb weight, it's no wonder that acceleration seems mediocre for a luxury SUV. Meanwhile, the LR2 is notable for a compliant suspension compatible with off-road mobility. At the same time, the pronounced body roll and nose dive that results doesn't deliver the kind of sportiness that people expect on pavement, although outright cornering grip and braking distances do not suffer, and the ride quality is comfortable.
If your intent is to take your small luxury crossover SUV off-road, then the LR2 should be near the top of your consideration list. Though the soft suspension settings compromise a sporty performance on the pavement, the LR2 still delivers superior traction and control on light- and medium-duty trails. And while the LR2 lacks low-range gearing, the Terrain Response system does indeed give the driver a high level of confidence when the going gets rough, bridging the performance gap between the light-duty AWD systems on most car-based SUVs and the dual-range 4WD systems on more traditional SUVs.
Used Land Rover LR2 Models
The Land Rover LR2 debuted for 2008. For that model year alone, it was available in a base SE trim level, which varied little from the HSE.
Though the LR2 is technically in its first generation, Land Rover's first compact utility, sold in this country from 2002-'05, was known as the Freelander and was similar in size and styling to the present model.
User Reviews:
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An authentic off road vehicle - 2009 Land Rover LR2
By Forester - January 16 - 1:30 pmThis car is just plain fun to drive. It is great on the highway and very capable off road. I have driven in mud, deep snow and dirt roads. It may look like a Lexus but the LR2 can really go off road. After 6000 miles no problems. Seems to be put together very well.
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Very Happy with this vehicle - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By roverette - December 9 - 5:43 amWow. After much research, I decided to purchase the Land Rover LR2. Its been a great choice for me. Its large enough to haul around what I need, and it still fits in the garage. Gas mileage has been averaging 22 mpg - that is a mix of highway and city driving. Comfortable interior, great visibility, tons of room.
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Give em a second chance - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By wilson - November 22 - 11:46 pmWhy did we buy an 08 LR2? I love my wife and she never forgave me for dumping the 03. I drove a DKW cross country in the 60s and had less trouble than the 03. After several weeks of ownership I can say that I thoroughly enjoy the styling, ride, performance, and ergonomics of my wifes gray/alpaca LR2.Check back with me on reliability.
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Pleasantly Surprised - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By Curt N. - October 24 - 7:20 amI just purchased a used 2008 LR2 HSE with 18K miles in October 2009 and have been extremely happy with the purchase. Had concerns about purchasing an LR based upon reports of mechanical and reliability issues, but after speaking to LR owners and mechanics, it appears the newer models have come a long way. Owner loyalty appears to be solid. Positives: handles great, comfortable to drive, great front seats, gas mileage (18- 24), Engine Power, Alpine Stereo, and Bluetooth Technology. Complaints: Need 1-3 feet of more rear cargo space to help with storage, and rear seating space to allow for rear seats to recline for passenger comfort. No roof racks and no mud flaps came with my HSE model.
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Fun Vehicle / Great Value - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By Charles Green - October 16 - 9:36 amPurchased mid August 2007. 6500 miles currently. Only dislike is the heated windshield. Embedded wires cause glare at night and you can see them during the day. This is a fun vehicle to drive. Fast and stable. Plenty of interior room for driver/passengers. The only time you know youre driving a small vehicle is when you back up and realize there is still plenty of room to maneuver. RIM has a download for their Blackberry, Bluetooth now works great. First SUV Ive really felt comfortable driving. Many like the X5 feel too ponderous, you can feel every pound in the steering. Many other SUVs dont even pretend that they could go off road. Added roof rails and mudguards. Lots of compliments.
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30 K report - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By DH - October 2 - 12:30 pmJust took it in for 30K check up. Been flawless thus far, all I have done is the free service. Lots of fun to drive, 22 mpg. Very happy with this purchase.
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im smitten! - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By sherry heverly - July 13 - 12:46 pmI just bought my lr2 last week and love it! it is my 2nd LR. it looks great, handles great, and i feel very safe in it. im sure there will be some quirks.................it is a landrover, but the dealership is wonderful and really takes care of the cars and their customers. im smitten!
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Great Rover! - 2008 Land Rover LR2
By Paul - March 5 - 12:06 pmSmooth engine and more power than expected. Sound system is awesome! Great turning ratio.
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Great SUV for the price - 2010 Land Rover LR2
By varnergirl - January 20 - 6:03 amI have previously owned a GMC Acadia, went down to a loaded Nissan Rogue to save on gas mileage, BAD DECISION. We just purchased the pre owned LR2 HSE and I am more than pleased. No, it is not as spacious as the Acadia, but drives like a pure luxury car. The gas mileage has been better than expected. In comparison to the price of the loaded Rogue we well overpaid for, this vehicle feels more stable and quiet frankly is worth every penny. I love the safety features and the ride. Land Rover made an affordable alternative for the Middle Class. Always check your options on a nice pre-owned vehicle you love before settling for a new vehicle you hope will grow on you.
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2011 HSE LUX___Perfect for me ! - 2011 Land Rover LR2
By Dave - January 7 - 8:43 amPlenty of power, quiet, smooth ride, transmission is very smooth, stereo is amazing. I change air filter to top of the line lifetime filter and my milage and horsepower went up nicely.
