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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  so far, so great! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By jsldds - July 25 - 7:33 am

  The LR3 has been perfect to date. Gas prices are hurting a bit but I live close to work. I have taken trips to Las Vegas and Mammoth from southern California. It drives like a champ on the highway and the snow. Very comfortable. I get 17+ mpg on long trips, 13 in the city. It feels like it was carved out of stone. Very comfortable. I have found the seats to be comfortable. Maybe my body type just fits. I see others have had trouble with the headrest position. I did not get the bluetooth, my only regret. I have the 5 seater and to date have not missed having the third row. Some say acceleration is slow. Ive found using sport mode helps. If you want a hotrod SUV, go to the Cherokee SRT.

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  Worthwile to wait - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By gillz - June 25 - 6:00 am

  Waited for the 2007 model so that could get the benefit of a couple years worth of production issues getting resolved. LR also added the lumbar, seat movement without key in ignition and other improvements for 2007. Only 1000 miles on the vehicle, but already in snow and on hwy, both cases proved to be a flawless performance.

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  LR3 & ME! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Michael Stoll - June 4 - 6:26 pm

  In this case, the fourth time is a charm! Following a Discovery and two Range Rovers, I think theyve finally got it! Rides like a luxury car, stable on ice and snow, and all the bells and whistles you would expect, save the comment noted below regarding sound system. While hesitant in the past, I would give the LR3 two big "thumbs up"!

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  Love this SUV!!! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By John - May 18 - 12:53 am

  I love this SUV! It can not be compared with other mid-sized SUVs becasue its not. Not inside anyway! Our LR3 seats 7 large adults totally comfortably...even more comfortably than the Suburban....the biggest of the SUVs. But outside you wouldnt know it. The turning radius is just amazing as well. Parking is a sinch!

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  Love my Rover! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Kristen - May 11 - 10:16 am

  My husband bought me this car soon after we had our baby in December. I couldnt love it more. Its got amazing handling and pick up. The steering is incredible. Its full of cool offroad features that you can even use on road. I use my "snow" setting in stop and go traffic.

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  Awesome L2V - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Ross - March 10 - 1:06 am

  Remember when the Space Shuttle first flew? Amid the laurels there was all this noise about the cost, the electonic failures, the "need"? Well, Land Rover has established itself by re-engineering their Discovery into a 20th century "space rover" SUV. This vehicle is built for the moon terrain and it will get you there in supreme comfort. Its had its share of recalls, failures, and tweeks but when you are driving the "first of", you cant beat the construction, performance, and charm this "Rover" has. Its less than its competitors SUVs and still out performs them. Ill continue to work through its "bugs" while enjoying the view from up here.

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  Oustanding vehicle - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Soonerjjs - March 6 - 5:30 am

  Best Ford I have ever had. No problems. Nothing has gone wrong. I live at 7500 ft, so the vehicle is challenged every day. Deep snow, rough terrain, off-road challenges. It can do it all. And have a better ride than anything I have been in this side of a Mercedes. Great, great car.

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  So far so good!!! - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By robbymcc - March 4 - 11:10 am

  I changed from a Discovery II, Tell you all about it later, to the new LR3. I chose V6 because I really dont think I needed the V8. Excellent equipment, beautiful soft ride. Handles just as I thought it would.

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  The Best is Yet to Come! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Land Rover Rules! - January 11 - 10:20 pm

  The LR3 is, without a doubt, a vehicle without peer. Where can you find the spaciousness, On & Off road capability, safety, all weather reliability? No other competitor does it like the LR3! Purchased Certified to 6 yrs and 75,000 miles. Issues have been minor and covered by warranty. No suspension issues, ever. Tows up to 7716lbs with confidence. Handles up to 90 cu ft. of cargo or 7 full size adults! Replaced original battery at 53k! About to put third set of pads on frt.,rear o.k.! These units will operate to 300k, if you like. So, dont buy the poor reliability claims. This is primarily a misunderstanding of the vehicles unique design parameters. Purpose built, to last a lifetime!!

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By Bradley - December 25 - 3:50 pm

  Each day of driving I am more pleased with the LR3. I have accrued 4000 miles so far and have enjoyed every one of them. The vehicle is a bit heavy, but has a very smooth & comfortable ride. The 4.4 liter V8 performs well in all normal day to day driving conditions. Some dedicated studying is required to make full use of the stereo & climate interfaces. Though overall, this vehicle gives its driver an incredible sense of poise & stability....rain or shine, but especially rain!