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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  Love this vehicle - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By theroux - February 20 - 2:20 am

  I purchased this LR3 after I traded in my Volvo wagon. I love the LR3. Its unique and fun to drive. I previously owned a Discovery and this is even better. If youre worried about gas mileage you should probably be looking elsewhere, otherwise youll love it.

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  So far, Im in love with this truck! - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By SF Owner - February 10 - 7:30 pm

  The design couldnt be better, and they realyl thought of all of the little details in this thing. I bought it with 45K miles on it, so Im hoping that anything that would have gone wrong by now has already done so. The company offers extended warranties as well. Great for road trips- very roomy.

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  lr3hse7 - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By doctorp - February 8 - 2:26 am

  Ive only had a suspension fault issue. Everything else has been great. Except the mileage, but whadaya want for 3 tons.

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  An Excellent Ride - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By dxholder - January 10 - 4:06 pm

  Land Rover has provided an OUTSTANDING vehicle. Being that I am a previous owner of the Land Rover Discover Series, I can say without a doubt that significant improvements have been made in providing me, consumer, with a smoother and quieter ride, easier handling, and over enhancement of interior, as well as the exterior.

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  LR3 - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By bkalhor - December 15 - 2:06 am

  This is my third LR and by far the best one to date!

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  Good Vehicle - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By Wonderful Vehicle - December 13 - 1:03 am

  Its a good vehicle we drive it up and down the east coast and can get 20.4 MPG. Its also nice with the over-the-head DVD player which makes the rides better. I like all of the features on the SUV. Its a very smooth ride.

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  Great SUV - 2008 Land Rover LR3
  By Wolfey - November 22 - 7:10 pm

  Bought my LR3 HSE a little over a month ago. Traded in an H2. I absolutely love this truck! It surpasses the Hummer in every way. Im getting over 18 MPG. The build quality is excellant. The ride is great and the handling better. Slap the selector into sport mode and this puppy hauls like a sports car. And I love that 550 watt stereo.

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  Diamond in the Rough - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By kwon303 - November 21 - 9:43 pm

  When I decided to buy this car I knew what I was getting into. Land Rover is known for off road greatness as well as luxury, but also very poor reliability. With that being said I still bought one and dont regret it. I love this car. I bought mine used because they depreciate so much that it just was not worth it for me. Not to mention you can find this car in L.A. at a dime for a dozen at a good price. I definitely got the extended 100,000 mile warranty to hedge my bet. Also you have to test drive it and check how it get out, transmission is key. No slips and your good to go also clean interior tells you everything you need to know. Gas is not great but what do you expect. Overall Great car.

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  Roving Rover - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By john caselli - November 15 - 1:33 pm

  The changes from the discovery to the LR3 are not even comparable. Land Rover has done great things w/this new updated model. ive had it for almost 3 years & have zero problems w/it. It rides excellent & will dile you w/guilt if you dont take it off the road now & then. My wife had a Discovery & feel rest assured that you will have piece of mind w/this machine where as w/the discovery you just never knew.