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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  I REALLY Wanted to Like It, But...... - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By Jay - February 22 - 11:03 am

  I owned one of these awesome Ford-made pieces of junk for about 4 months before I wisely got rid of it in favor of a quality-built vehicle. I bought it because I really liked the new styling inside and out and the more powerful engine, but didnt take into account the fact that it would be even less reliable than the 2003 Disco II that I traded in (which is really saying something). In my time owning it, I was at the dealership several times for the "check engine" light (not gas cap related), a total electronic malfunction (it said the e- brake was engaged when it wasnt and wouldt start for a full day), as well as a few other annoying issues. Overall, a miserable ownership experience.

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  Better than my Discovery? Sometimes. - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By SnapHappy - May 11 - 3:26 pm

  I also own a 2003 Discovery SE, and the LR3 is a very different car. Some improvements were made, but other changes were steps backward. Its MUCH smoother on the pavement due to a less stiff suspension, but the 4.4L 300HP engine (while zippy in passing performance) has a 1-2 second lag between the time I step on the gas and the time it actually responds. My 4.6L 217HP Disco SE has already taken off like a rocket while the LR3 is still thinking about it. Very quiet inside - the engine is nearly silent. I dont like that the LR3 SE trim is more industrial (and less "classy") than the Disco SE. Overall performance is great, but little tweaks were missed.

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  I got a Lemon - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Sunridgefarm - April 16 - 8:53 am

  I have had my LR3 for 8 months and it has already been in the shop for over 50 days. First a bunch of lights went on for no apparent reason, the shop had my car for over a week. Then I took it in for its 7500 mile check and the next day it started to surge forward then the engine would die. That took 3+ weeks to fix (new fuel tank). I got the car back and within 3 hrs. the engine light went on. Another 10 days and a new feul pump, the service manager took it home to test it and the light went back on. Finally got my car back and within 24 hours the check engine light is back on. I have had it and am filing a Lemon Law claim.

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  frustrated - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Pamela - February 10 - 2:10 am

  This by far is the best looking SUV in its size, but have not had it since Jan 21 due to electrical problems. It was in the shop 3 times before this last one, a total of 4 times in 6 months. It has been in the shop for a total of 67 days as of today. The service department cant figure it out. It goes into crash mode while driving down the freeway. This means hazards light up and wont turn off, locks constantly lock and unlock, all service lights on the dashboard light up and the suspension drops no matter how fast or slow you are going. They have replaced the CPU and harness, and check all circuits, it still has the same problem. I will sell it when I get it back.

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  Deeply Disappointed - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By SUVFan - October 10 - 6:26 pm

  The Land Rover HSE is an excellent looking vehicle. However, that is about as far as it goes. I have had the HSE for seven months and it has been in the shop seven times (six for electrical problems - one for molding clips and road noise). The tires are making the loud road noise so they have to be replaced before 20,000 miles. Gas mileage is horrible.

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  LR3 - 2008 Land Rover LR3
  By richard - May 22 - 11:26 am

  Horrible gas mileage. Truly horrible gas usage. Uncomfortable front seating. Clunky. Great interior. Good looks. Massive depreciation. Wouldnt recommend.