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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  Bmw cant touch this - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By KEN - December 31 - 9:36 am

  5000 Mi its been great,fun to drive,plenty of power ,tons of room ,my 63" son can sit in the third row seat in comfort,can play my ipod,nav super,my wife keeps telling me to stop driving it like my jag, why? You can!Great handling,great suv!!!

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  My LR3 - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Vivina - November 14 - 7:30 pm

  This our first Land Rover, and we founded to be excellent suv, It takes curves beautifully. We are very pleased with it, we drove to Florida over the spring holiday and its very comfortable and roomy.

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  Its not just the cupholders - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Arch North - October 30 - 12:36 pm

  We love our LR3 just because its a great car to drive. Its unbelievably smooth on the highway due to the air suspension, and a push of a button raises it for off road driving. The engine barely makes a sound when its idling, and is matched with the transmisson so nicely that you barely feel feel it shift. The sound of the engine under accelleration is symphonic! Weve owned the car for about a year and a half now, and still feel like were going on vacation every time we get into it.

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  Love my Landrover - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By LandRover LR3 - October 26 - 1:16 pm

  Overall we couldnt be more pleased with this vehicle. It demands attention. The dvd player they installed is probably my only complaint. We have already brought it in for service..but that has nothing to do with the actual car. We have three little children and they learned how to put the seats up and down quicker than I did. The trunk space is a bit small when the the third row is up...but is still manageable. It is roomy, elegant, and worth every penny. The air conditioning vents are supplied throughout the car...and lots of cup holders. Great for the kids and great for my husband and I when we have a night out together. We will forever be Landrover owners.

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  LR3 - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Forke - October 14 - 6:46 pm

  I have had my LR3 since December and absolutely love it. It is quick, quiet and sophisticated. Any friend I let drive, wants one.

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  Land rover quality - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By carz - September 18 - 4:40 am

  I love my vehicle. It runs smooth and no problems what so ever. I dont like the fact I get 15 miles per gallon. One stumbling block I have had is I bought a boat recently and now need a hitch. The dealer quoted me almost $800 for a hitch. If you dont need a hitch and dont care about gas mileage this is the greatest SUV.

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  Great SUV!! - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By Mike C - September 14 - 8:46 am

  Ok folks, this SUV is a must have. I sold my BMW X5 to purchase the LR3; the LR3 stands alone in the luxury category. The 3rd row seating is comfortable and the stadium seating keeps all in the conversation. It is a joy to drive and have taken off road..what a rush. I have had no problems with reliability or quality and the Red Nolan dealership in Colorado Springs know the true meaning of customer service. GO BUY ONE TODAY!!!

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  Great vehicle - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By bob - August 25 - 9:06 pm

  This is the greatest car I have ever owned and I have had it for a few months with no issues. It has great space whenever I need it. It is great to have third row seat that fold into the floor because I dont need it that often.

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  Nice Crossover - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Scott Heaton - August 20 - 10:06 pm

  As the previous owner of a Discovery II, I can say this is a much smoother, solid-feeling vehicle. I enjoy the driving experience more every day. Four months into ownership have given no disappointments.

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  lr 3 - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By edie - August 1 - 7:00 am

  i took my new landrover into the woods camping. it was a blast, easy to drive. the seats folds down and 2 people can sleep comfortably in the back. I really love this car....