Overview & Reviews

For decades, Land Rover SUVs were known primarily for their utility and off-road prowess. During the 1980s, they became more luxurious, but their ability in the dirt has never been in question.

A prime example of this change was the Land Rover LR3, which replaced the aging Discovery. The old "Disco" was long on utility but a little shy on amenities. The LR3 offered a lot more style. Unfortunately, it still suffered from an underwhelming engine, quirky ergonomics and a poor reputation for reliability.

If all-terrain adventures are a frequent family activity and the thought of owning a pedigreed SUV appeals to you, it's hard to think of a better-suited vehicle for the task than a used Land Rover LR3. But if you'll be sticking primarily to pavement, other luxury SUVs like the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 350 will be better choices.

Most Recent Land Rover LR3 Models
The Land Rover LR3 was produced from 2005-'09. Originally, there were SE and HSE trim levels. The SE came standard with a 216-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 (we would avoid this), while the HSE got a 300-hp 4.4-liter V8. The V8 became standard on all LR3s for 2008. The HSE trim essentially became an option package in the final production year. Aside from the third-row seat becoming standard on the HSE for '06 and in the SE for '08, other changes were limited to additional standard features.

Though smaller than the Range Rover, Land Rover's midsize LR3 was still capable. V8 versions could tow up to 7,700 pounds and the LR3 was hard to beat off-road. All variants came standard with fully independent adjustable air suspension and a host of electronic off-road aids. Combined with a locking center differential, an optional electronic rear locker and the LR3's new Terrain Response system, this truck had the ability to climb boulders in a single bound.

At the same time, the LR3 also provided a useful interior as well. There was seating for seven adult passengers and both the second- and third-row seats folded flat to make cargo-hauling easier. The cabin design was a tad utilitarian and lacked the luxurious ambience of its competitors or its successor, the LR4. Another downside was the chaotic mess of little buttons spread upon the dash that could be confusing to use at a glance.

Other than being underpowered given its hefty curb weight, there were few complaints about the way the LR3 drove. It delivered the kind of tight, refined ride we expected from a luxury SUV and the steering provided excellent road feel and more feedback than many of its competitors. A tight turning circle and an effective power assist kept it nimble in parking lots.

In reviews, we were endlessly impressed with the Land Rover LR3's capabilities off-road and continuously surprised at how well it performed on road. However, besides the above concerns, there's also the matter of its thirst for fuel and poor record for reliability. As such, buying an out-of-warranty LR3 without being close friends with a Land Rover mechanic is not the wisest idea.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome truck - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By CMHaverford - December 30 - 10:30 am

  Ive had Land Rover Discoverys for over 10 years and have always loved them. The LR3 takes the experience one step closer to a Range Rover. It drives very smoothly, more like a car than a truck, its fast, and very comfortable. Love the feel and look of the truck!

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  Great Ride Great Value - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By Canuck - December 14 - 10:20 am

  Despite some initial hesitation, I am glad I went for the LR3 HSE. Overall it is a great vehicle in any driving situations. The comfort and ride is superb even during long trips with kids and luggage. The flexibility of seating arrangements is second to none. The sense of security and off- road capability of the LR 3 place it in a class of its own. My wife and I went to the Land Rover off-road driving school in Montebello Quebec and loved it. LR3 is virtually unstoppable. It is not a SAV, Crossover/sedan on steriods it is a true SUV. If you are looking for sedan like performance..buy a sedan. V8 offers plenty of power under all normal driving conditions including passing and goign up hill.

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  Love it so far... - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Janet & Dave - November 12 - 6:16 am

  We have been a long time Jeep family (owned 4) and were looking at the Commander. For the same price we were able to get a 2005 new LR3 - no comparison! The ride is amazing, the level of service from the dealership second to none, and the third row is extremely comfortable. I am 62, 240 and have ridden in the 3rd row - I cant do that in any other SUV in this class. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a comfortable, luxurious vehicle, whether an SUV or not.

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  4th Discovery in the family, big change - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By MB - October 20 - 1:23 pm

  This is our 4th Disco since 95, and this is a big upgrade, they have finally introduced the upgrades required to make this a better car to drive. Being a BMW fanatic, you can see the influence, unfortunately the ownership didnt last too long. Lets hope Ford doesnt "screw it up".... Love this vehicle, not as much as my Defender 90, but thats ok.....

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  Awesome Potential.... - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Roverdawg - October 17 - 5:53 pm

  Great vehicle......when its working. I love this car but Ive had repetitive problems with the air suspension and some other issues. Unfortunately, despite mult. visits the suspension faults remain. Poor reliability on my particular vehicle (related to early build?. Also had the fuel tank recalled/replaced, susp. compressor replaced, front speakers replaced (rattling), hood release cable replaced (failed), rear distance parking module replaced (failed). And yet, I still would recommend this vehicle IF you buy a 2006/2007 and get the extended warranty. Glad I bought the extended warranty!

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  Eats tires - Beware - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By faganravens - October 6 - 1:40 am

  I leased this vehicle in April 06 and will turn it in early. It is a capable and comfortable SUV, but it eats rear tires. LR does not tell you about the TSB on its tires until after you chew through your first set at about 15K. I am on the second set of $1000 tires and they are going bald in the back at 34K. The vehicle is too expense to replace tires every year. Not isolated, see class action lawsuit against LR.

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  LR3: Driving can actually be fun - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By Marloag - September 28 - 4:03 pm

  My experience with the most recent LR3 I purchased has been great. It is actually fun to drive. It has wonderful off-road capabilities, as well as being very comfortable and roomy inside. The three sun roofs make the whole car bright and even more spacious. The navigation system is relatively easy to use, and very helpful. The folding-down back seats has been very useful as well.

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  2005 Land Rover LR3 SE V8 - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By MotorStreet - September 20 - 3:50 am

  The LR3 is hugely impressive. It tows our 4000 lbs boat with ease. The LR3 has a huge cargo area and seats that fold flat quickly and easily. You can fit a six foot tall adult easily and comfortably in every seat. Its easy to see out of and park the LR3 because of its relatively small proportions and huge windows. Another impressive part of the LR3 is its extensive warranty and the dealers service programs. The air suspension is a nice feature, because it means that the car can be low for access or higher for snow, towing, or off roading. This SUV feels solid, but suprisingly nimble on the road and in snow or ice sticks to the road like no other vehicle.

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  Amazing - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By leader1111 - September 10 - 3:36 am

  First Land Rover after dreaming for years. Big change from Discovery. Exceptional in every way. Rides like being on a cloud, but goes anywhere. Passengers/customers love going over obstacles. It seals the deal. It is so smooth that I really have to watch speed as at 100-110 mph I still think I am going 70 mph. Dealer excellent. Mileage 14/18 (for 3 1/2 tons) but tired of hearing people complaining that it doesnt get the same mileage as their previous economy car. Duh! Compare its mileage, capabilities, handling and comfort to the Hummer H1 or Mercedes G55 which have the same capabilities, and its half the price.

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  Trust me Buy it, I did - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Phil - August 28 - 5:03 am

  I live in Germany and travel on the autobahn daily at over 125 mph. I would challenge any other production SUV to come close to the performance of this one. This truck is a sports car with room to spare. It is in a class by itself, trust me I have drive every other SUV from the X5, to the M class, the Volvo and the Explorer. This one is the best. Any you have to see the way the seats all fold into the floor independently.