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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  Great all around Vehicle - 2007 Land Rover LR3
  By RM - January 20 - 2:16 pm

  So far it has been great. I especially enjoy the feeling of security when driving around in the LR3. In addition greatly enjoy the Logic 7 sound system, the simple to use NAV/GPS, the integration of Bluetooth and Voice Command. Voice Command takes a little getting used to and can be a little frustrating at first. When driving I enjoy using command shift. The brakes are amazing for a vehicle of this size and weight. The steering is precise and the ride is very smooth thanks to the air suspension. The flexibility in seating/cargo configuration is amazing. The kids love just about everything about it. Cant hardly wait to take it on a long trip. The more I drive it the more I like it

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  Excellent car that will be missed - 2006 Land Rover LR3
  By LandRoverWA - January 13 - 2:56 am

  Purchased new and kept for 4 years and 52,000 miles. No reliability issues, got between 17-20 mpg depending on how loaded the car was. The flat load floor with all rows of seats folded is excellent. Decent navigation system and excellent off-road capabilities. No regrets. I have no idea why CR rates this car so poorly, it was 20x more reliable and better than our 02 Disco II.

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  Awesome! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Jeff - December 18 - 2:50 pm

  What a well-conceived vehicle! Perfect for our 3 kids and car-pooling to sports and school. Rugged in the Minnesota winter, safe to drive with kids, fabulous third row seating, awesome light with the alpine windows in second and third row, and fantastic storage when second and third row seats are flattened. Best SUV with third row seat by far!

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  LR3 - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By LR3 - December 12 - 3:30 am

  Great drive; feel safe in LA or on the backroads. Average of 10-12 mpg lacks seriously though. Also should have 2 other sunroofs moveable with back windows opening an option. Love the optional back rubber mats, but tailgate should also be covered for dogs....

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  So Far So Good - 2009 Land Rover LR3
  By maxgold114 - December 9 - 5:00 am

  New owner of a 2009 LR3. Put about 1000 miles on in first month. Truck has great features, and while not great on gas, its not significantly different than its competition. Car works well and has been solid so far. Definitely happy with purchase so far.

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  Love It! - 2008 Land Rover LR3
  By Andrew - December 2 - 9:56 am

  This is a great vehicle! My wife is the daily driver and I am thankful that she is able to have such a safe and competent vehicle for her and our family. This is our second LR3 and the interior seats are very similar to the Range Rover Sport leather.

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  Grey Ghost - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By Charles Woodall - November 17 - 12:43 pm

  It handles well. I like the height and view. This is my third Rover. They only get better. The workhorse is still there but the creature comforts are superb. I would recommend it highly

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  No regrets whatsoever!! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By David - November 12 - 8:50 am

  I bought my LR3 SE recently from a used car dealership who posted the car on eBay. I had CARCHEX.com review the car before the purchase and shipment. I saved about $10K than if I had bought it at my local Land Rover dealership. The car is the envy of my friends, neighbors, and colleagues. I love the navigation, the large spacing, power and handling, and the amazing internal and external styling. The mileage is a definite issue; however I leverage my old car during the weekdays, i.e. for going to work. I drive my LR3 primarily on weekends, i.e., dinner date and going to church. This way I save on gas as well as preserve the value of my vehicle.

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  Best SUV in the world!!! - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By KROVER - November 11 - 11:10 pm

  SUV with character! I cannot describe how rock solid this vehicle feels. Build quality is excellent, feels like it was carved from stone.

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  Love it so much I laugh @ myself - 2005 Land Rover LR3
  By David - October 27 - 7:13 pm

  I didnt think I cared much about what car I drove. Then I drove this one. The on road ride is as good as any and off road, well, the only problem with driving this machine off road is it does it all itself. After dialing in the appropriate setting, the best thing (and only thing you need to do is give it a little gas and steer. It goes anywhere effortlessly. My wife calls the on road ride "like butter". As I drive around town I catch myself smiling. The acceleration and handling is just fun. Oh, the sound of the Jag motor is music to even this non- autophile country boy.