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 love this SUV - 2005 Land Rover LR3
By PlaneIce - July 12 - 12:23 amI have drove several SUVs BMW X5, Yukon/Tahoe , Lexus lx470 and 330, but to honest the LR3 was really the most comfortable and the most head turning, it full of all the gadgets you would expect and would like to have it this rang of SUVs, I just love it.
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Great 4X4 Luxury Ride ... No Complaints! - 2006 Land Rover LR3
By PRinSanAntonio - July 7 - 5:46 amOwned the LR3 for over a month and we love it. It is fully loaded. It is so versatile, loaded with all the luxury features anyone could need. So far no issues at all, it runs great and has wonderful road presence, plenty of power w/V8. Our dealer is wonderful, and if something does happen, so what, we drive another Land Rover. How is that a bad thing? Plus no cost maintenance. Most people dream of driving such an awesome truck. Bottomline - If people could afford to drive them, everyone would. We feel very fortunate to own this vehicle.
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Cant find a better vehicle - 2005 Land Rover LR3
By jokawood - April 3 - 4:43 pmI use to go through vehicles every 2 years or less. The first thing I look at when getting something new or thinking of getting something new is what compromise will I make when getting this? I have owned my 2005 LR3 SEV8 since 2007 (when gas prices were high) and so far after 6 years of ownership I have done regular maintenance, changed the bushings in the suspension, thermostat housing, water pump, had all the recalls. You would do to any other vehicle just like an LR3. But, I have NEVER had this vehicle leave me stranded on road or trail, never had an electrical glitch, or had a major issue. Best vehicle I have owned and I would have to compromise to get anything else out there.
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Incredible - 2006 Land Rover LR3
By Zeus - March 31 - 6:43 pmIf you are looking for a truck that has style, corners well, has toys (Bluetooth, Voice Recognition, Navigation w/4WD mode) this is the one. The command driving setup (Driver sits high, while all the doors/frame is cut low to highly improve 360" visability is incredible. Lots of room, yet tight frame (resulting in boxy look) making it easy to deal with in the city. The turning raidus on this thing is insane (very impressed.) Overall I have had the care a few weeks, and NOTHING compares (tried X5, MDX, Yukon, Denali).
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A total package - 2005 Land Rover LR3
By JR - March 30 - 2:50 amI have had the LR3 about three weeks and it has surpassed my expectations. I have gotten a lot of compliments about the styling. My kids like it better than I do. I have not gone off road or in snow, but I cant wait.
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Great SUV - 2006 Land Rover LR3
By DriverLR3 - February 3 - 9:40 amExcellent SUV overall. No problems other than regular maintenance. Maybe a bit underpowered but overall we are very happy with it.
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No one comes close - 2005 Land Rover LR3
By Rod - January 17 - 3:53 amBeautiful driving experience, out of all my vehicles Ive owned including other SUVs this is the best built, ride and handling of all. Makes me just want o get in and go for a ride no destination in mind. Ride comfort is accentuated when you feel as if all your troubles have been left outside the minute you close your door. The sound system is spot on, clear and very relaxing. There is no outside road noise to disrupt your travels, even in traffic jams I feel relaxed, compared to my previous vehicles this is like sitting in a sound proof room. My children love the seating layout and the sound system connect
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LR3 Best of the Best - 2008 Land Rover LR3
By David - January 8 - 1:06 pmIncredible vehicle, with brand exclusiveness and Ford reliability. Solid and quiet from vault like construction. Handling is precise with insulated road feedback and excelleent pot-hole dampening. The LR3 is underrated and is a great value for the money. This is our second vehicle and enjoy the comfort it provides in all driving conditions. Our last LR3 was involved in a highway accident and the truck provided adequate safety and protection for the family while absorbing some tremendous forces.
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Brass Ring - 2005 Land Rover LR3
By Sontob - December 28 - 5:53 amAlready 1000k on car. Bought it three weeks ago. Drove from SF to LA & back with no problems-amazing performance for an SUV. Also, lots of local driving and 2 Tahoe trips in major snow storms. From the silent ergonomic cabin, sturdy vault like build, crisp clear sound system & command style seating to the terrain response, navigation, & air suspension...each drive is an experience. Driving to Tahoe in a major snow storm has never been more fun & stress free. My wife loves the car & has never been more confident driving in bad weather. This is the kind of car that you look forward to driving even if it is to the local market. Have owned several SUVs LR3 by far takes the cake!
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Awesome Truck - 2006 Land Rover LR3
By Ken - December 6 - 12:26 pmThis is absolutely the best off-road/on- road combination SUV I have ever had. My wife has an ML-500 and we have owned a GX-470, ML-350, Grand Cheerokee, Lincoln Mark LT 4X4 and Jeep Wranglers. This is the best truck for the buck going. It has been bullet proof, unlike any of the others, I take it on Off road excursions where I would never take my Jeep and have never had a problem or gotten stuck. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking a cool, competent and reliable performer.
