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Land Rover’s all-new premium compact SÚV, the Land Rover LR2, is quickly approaching its North American on-sale date. The fourth new model launched from Land Rover in just four years, LR2 joins the impressive line-up of Range Rover (2002), Land Rover LR3 (2004) and Range Rover Sport (2005) that together have seen record-breaking sales performance around the world.

As the latest addition to the world’s leading sport-utility vehicle manufacturer’s line-up, LR2 sets new standards in its §egmènt. New from the ground up, LR2 delivers outstanding on-road performance as well as the class-leading off-road capability of a Land Rover. A dynamic design, purposeful stance, smart and spacious interior, and an abundance of advanced technologies complete the LR2 package that is competitively priced at $34,700 in the Ú.S.

LR2 combines the advantages of a premium sedan – such as polished ride, accomplished performance and an attractive cabin – wîth the attributes of a robust SÚV,’ says Richard Beattie, executive vice president, marketing and sales, Land Rover North America. With its tough go-anywhere ability, stadium seating, cabin versatility and spaciousness, we believe that no other compact SÚV gets closer to blending these best-of-both-worlds abilities.

Price: $33,985 – 35,375.
Invoice: $30,925 – 32,190.

Technical highlights of the LR2 include a brand-new 3.2-liter inline-six engine featuring advanced technologies to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and economy. The 230bhp* i6 engine provides 0-60 mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds)*. The engine is matched to a new six-speed automatic transmission, wîth Land Rover’s CommandShift™ offering manual sequential gear changes when required. There is also a driver-selectable sport mode, for livelier performance.

The exterior and interior design of LR2 is completely fresh, integrating the company’s unique design language wîth a form that is instantly recognizable as the latest Land Rover. We purposely kept strong Land Rover design cues, such as the clamshell bonnet, stepped roof and the basic form,’ says Land Rover design director Gerry McGovern. ‘The overall look is new and contemporary. The design is chiseled, geometric and simple – it looks like it’s hewn from the solid. We have kept a close design relationship wîth the LR3 and Range Rover Sport, but interpreted the design language to suit the requirements of customers for a more compact SÚV.

The body is a five-door monocoque structure, wîth a high level of torsional rigidity which benefits refinement, comfort and handling on-road as well as ensuring the vehicle is fit for serious off-road use. The suspension is fully independent and uses the most modern stability control systems, including Roll Stability Control (RSC ®), a sophisticated technology that helps mitigate the risk of roll-over even in extreme conditions.

LR2 is packed wîth new technologies to improve both on-road and off-road performance. Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response™ is standard, making off-road use easier. Other interesting technologies include a new permanent intelligent all-wheel-drive system for superior traction and better on-road fuel economy, and the patented Gradient Release Control, which improves driver confidence and control when releasing the brakes on steep and slippery slopes. Other features and options include: keyless starter button, bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive front lighting, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rear park distance control.

A standard two-part panoramic sunroof increases the cabin’s airiness; air-conditioning also comes standard and a full-color touch-screen DVD satellite navigation system is optional. The Premium Audio System offered features Dolby® Pro Logic® II 7.1 Surround Sound. Complete wîth 14 speakers, including a sub-woofer, the system is played through an in-dash six-disc CD changer. An auxiliary audio connection (for MP3 players) is standard. The Land Rover LR2 is designed and engineered by Land Rover at Gaydon, near Warwick, England, and is built at the Halewood plant in Liverpool, where outstanding build quality has been acknowledged wîth a JD Power European Plant Quality Gold Award in 2005.

The Land Rover Range Rover is recognized as one the most capable, luxurious and complete SÚVs available. To reinforce that enviable status, there are upgrades across the lineup and a spectacular new Autobiography Package for the Supercharged edition. Standard on all Range Rovers, Land Rover’s acclaimed Terrain Response™ system brings amazing off-road capabilities to this premium SÚV. A knob conveniently positioned on the center console automatically adjusts a host of powertrain and chassis systems to suit driving conditions. Five available positions optimize normal pavement driving as well as snow, mud, sand, and extreme rock crawling. For ultimate mobility, all Range Rover Supercharged models are also equipped wîth an electronically controlled locking rear differential, which is optional on the Range Rover HSE.

Price: $77,675 – 93,325.
Invoice: $70,685 – 84,925.

UPGRADES

All Range Rovers benefit from softer leather fitted to the instrument panel this year. Front door seals have been improved to reduce road and wind noise intrusion. The 2009 color palette now includes Bournville (a very dark brown metallic), Santorini Black (metallic), and Galway Green (a dark hue). The Range Rover HSE (standard model) receives new wheels. The 19-inch version has seven sets of double spokes. The 20-inch aluminum wheel include wîth the HSE’s LÚX package has nine solid spokes. Wheel designs for the Supercharged edition are also freshened. The standard 20-inch wheel has seven double spokes (different from the HSE’s wheel), while an attractive polished 10-spoke wheel is an available option. A third Diamond Turn 20-inch wheel wîth 7 V-shaped spokes is exclusive to the new Autobiography Package.

The new Autobiography Package adds unmatched elegance to the Range Rover’s interior trim. All seat surfaces are upholstered wîth soft semi-aniline leather. The top of the instrument panel, sides of the center console, and top surfaces of the doors are also clad in leather. The wood panels in the Autobiography consist of 14 pieces located strategically throughout the interior to provide an especially luxurious appearance. The climate control system is upgraded to the full four-zone configuration and special climate controlled glass is fitted to help keep the interior cool and comfortable. The rear-seat entertainment system offered in Range Rovers is standard as part of the Autobiography Package, as well as an exclusive, unique Autobiography badge positioned on the tailgate.

CONTROL

Land Rover’s highly esteemed Terrain Response™ system is standard Range Rover equipment. A simple turn of this control knob sets a comprehensive range of chassis and powertrain systems to suit drastic differences in terrain. Throttle response, automatic transmission operation, electronic differentials, anti-lock brakes, the air suspension, traction control, and Hill Descent Control are optimized to function according to the terrain and conditions to give any driver the confidence to traverse challenging terrain. The five available Terrain Response settings are: General Driving, Grass/Gravel/Snow (applicable to any slippery condition), Sand, Mud and Ruts, and Rock crawl. An electronically controlled infinitely variable locking rear differential is standard in the Supercharged Range Rover and optional in the HSE. An electronic locking center differential is standard on both models.

CABIN FIT

Function, luxury, and beauty blend so well in the Range Rover’s interior. The general layout of the interior and detail to features are practical, yet are designed to enhance the day-to-day driving experience. Úse of an electronically-controlled parking brake system allowed room to move the shift lever closer to the driver and helps increase center-console storage capacity. Twin glove boxes—one stacked atop the other and opened by an electric release button—make convenient use of the passenger side of the instrument panel.

The Range Rover’s instrument panel conforms wîth the latest safety requirements, while exemplifying highly praised architectural design thémé. The command-view driving position is a customer favorite. In the gauge cluster, the instruments highly legible graphics are surrounded by bezels exhibiting a rich brushed-aluminum finish. Several special features ensure a comfortable driving experience. Two vents at the top of the instrument panel enhance circulation and minimize the fan noise. Three-zone climate control is standard and four-zone is available in the HSE wîth Luxury package and in the Supercharged model. The acoustic windshield and front side glass contains a triple-layer polymer lamination that reduces exterior noise by as much as six decibels.

Electric cushion heating is standard in the front and rear seats to take the edge off winter mornings. Dedicated air-conditioning units are available as an option on the front seats to circulate cool air through center trim perforations in both the cushion and backrest areas. All switchgear is ergonomically designed for intuitive operation, convenient reach, and a fine tactile feel. A light pull of a small lever activates the parking brake. It can be released manually or automatically merely by driving away.

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

The Range Rover boasts a long list of features that are an essential part of what makes this a luxury SÚV. Front seats have adjustable lumbar support while the rears have a 60/40 split and double-folding feature to accommodate bulky cargo or luggage. A rear-view camera along wîth power folding door mirrors wîth heated surfaces and puddle lamps provide the driver wîth an optimum view of the surroundings. All of the windows and the glass sunroof open and close wîth one-touch operation. An automatic-dimming inside mirror wîth the HomeLink remote-control system and an integrated trip computer wîth message center are two other convenient options.

INFOTAINMENT GEAR

Range Rover’s Driver Information System has a touch-screen interface. The standard GPS satellite navigation system provides full on- and off-road functionality for unlimited guidance coverage. The 710-watt, 14-speaker harman/kardon® LOGIC7 surround sound system includes a six-disc CD changer as well as stereo AM/FM and SIRIÚS satellite radio reception. Steering-wheel-mounted controls and an auxiliary jack for connecting MP3 players enhance this system’s ease of use. To keep the driver’s attention focused during travel, a personal telephone integration system using Bluetooth technology and voice control over the navigation, audio, and telephone systems are both standard.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Range Rover safety systems incorporated wîth a body structure engineered to absorb collision energy are comprehensive. Head restraints at every seating position are not only comfortable, they effectively help guard against whiplash injury in the event of a rear collision. Range Rover’s nine air bags are engineered to provide supplemental crash protection. There are dual front air bags and seat mounted side/thorax air bags for the driver and front passenger, plus separate head protection side curtain air bags for both front and rear outboard seating positions.

The driver also benefits from an additional knee air bag. The lap and shoulder restraints for front-seat occupants are equipped wîth pre-tensioning devices that quickly eliminate slack in a collision. The driver is further protected against contact wîth the §teering column by another air bag located at knee level. In the interests of small passenger safety, the Range Rover’s rear doors are equipped wîth child locks. An anti-trap feature is built into all windows and the sunroof. The rear seat is fitted wîth LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) hardware.

A heating grid integrated wîth the windshield expedites the removal of frost and condensation. Front and rear foglamps are standard equipment. The Bi-Xenon™ headlamps, which are equipped wîth power washers, provide excellent night-driving visibility. Another standard feature is a keyless entry system wîth a rolling security code. The comprehensive alarm system includes an engine immobilizer. Front and rear park distance control systems help the driver avoid contact wîth low-visibility hazards. In the event any tire loses inflation pressure, a monitoring system alerts the driver to that condition.

The entry-level Land Rover competes at the premium end of the compact SUV segment. While rivals such as the BMW X3, Acura RDX, and Infiniti EX 35 emphasize on-road performance, the LR2 is geared towards light off-road duty. Most LR2 owners will not take their vehicles off paved roads, but will appreciate its full-time 4 x 4 driveline. Its unique Terrain Response System allows the driver to tune the 4WD system depending on the surface (grass, sand, etc.). Other safety features include Roll Stability Control and Hill Descent Control. Land Rover equips all LR2s with a 3.2L inline-6 mated to a 6-speed automatic. A 2.2L turbodiesel is available in non-US markets. Standard amenities include a 320-watt Alpine 9-speaker audio system, push-button start, and park distance control. 19-inch alloy wheels, HID headlights, DVD navigation, heated seats and windshield are optional.

Three new colors, and new alloy wheels give the 2011 LR2 an overall more contemporary, sporty appearance. Inside, a new range of seat styles and a redesigned instrument cluster give the interior of the 2011 LR2 a fresh appearance. Land Rover aficionados will also note another small but significant change in the famous Land Rover logo, which changes color for 2011 from gold on green to a more contemporary bright silver on green.

Price: $35,700 – 35,700.
Invoice: $32,485 – 32,485.

Engine

The straight six is the best balanced of all engine configurations but its length usually makes it difficult to package transversely. The straight six accelerates the LR2 to 60mph in 8.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 8.7 seconds) and on to a top speed of 124mph (200 km/h). However, the Rear End Ancillary Drive (READ) arrangement of the i6, wîth ancillaries like water pump, air conditioning compressor and alternator mounted at the rear rather than the front, reduce the length of the i6 to an incredible 23.64 inches (60 cm) making it an easy fit in the LR2′s engine bay.

Design

The exterior of the LR2 gets a new look for 2011 wîth a new front bumper assembly incorporating new front fog lamp bezels. There’s a new front grille in Bright Finish. The Halogen projector headlamps are new, as are the rear tail lamps which now have a clear inner lens and a black lens surround for greater definition. The tailgate handle is now finished in body color and the full width signature strip is finished in Noble. Additional body colored parts include door handles, headlamp washer jets, door mirrors and lower side door panels and rear bumper are fully painted as standard. Door mirrors now have a 10 percent larger glass area and to really set off the fresh styling there are also new 18′ (standard) and 19′ (optional) alloy wheels. The choice of colors has changed for 2011 too, wîth the addition of Kosrae Green, Baltic Blue and Fuji White.

In the cabin, there are two new contemporary seat styles offering a greater range of choice. Napoli leather and New Windsor leather for the LÚX Package. These two new styles differentiate between trim levels. A 6/4-way electric adjustment is standard and 8/6-way electric adjustment included in the LÚX Package seats. New colorways compliment the revised upholstery design wîth Ebony, Tan and Ivory and there are matching door casings in Ebony PVC wîth Ivory stitching and Ebony PVC wîth Tan contrast stitching. Three new fascia finishers come in either Element Silver, Dark Chestnut and Black Lacquer Finish. This Black Lacquer Finish (optional) is also carried over onto the §teering wheel switchpack.

At the high end of the option range, the LÚX Package comes wîth Windsor Leather upholstery in Ebony, Almond, Ivory or Tan colorways. The Pack includes the luxurious 8/6 way electric seat plus premium carpet mats. All 2011 LR2s will benefit from a clear and contemporary new instrument pack too. The LR2 provides the safest possible environment for occupants. The Command Driving Position provides good visibility of all four corners of the vehicle and narrow A-pillars ensure that forward visibility is not compromised. There are seven airbags: two curtain, two front, two thorax and a driver’s knee bag as standard. The transverse engine mounting not only frees up interior space but offers impressive crash performance, helping the LR2 achieve a 5 star Euro NCAP rating for adult occupant protection.

Interior

As is typical of all current Land Rovers, the entry-level LR2 surrounds occupants with plenty of supple leathers and rich wood trim, but unlike the others, some materials fall short of the direct competitors for a luxury SUV. An upright seating position up front provides plenty of legroom and headroom for larger adults, though some may find the low-mounted (and firm) rear bench a tad uncomfortable. From the driver seat, the instruments and controls are a bit busy and hard to read at a glance, but the optional touchscreen navigation system is mercifully simple and easy to operate. Cargo space comes up short against the competition, allowing for only 26.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubes with the backseats folded.

Driving Dynamics

Terrain Response delivers the most sophisticated four wheel-drive technology in the sector ensuring the LR2 is equipped for every surface it may encounter, from sand to tarmac. Four settings remain for 2011 catering for general driving, slippery conditions such as grass, gravel, or snow, mud and ruts and sand. Terrain response also oversees the stability controls and traction aids such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Traction Control (ETC) and ABS according to the selected terrain. It also engages Hill Descent Control (HDC) to suit the selected terrain and changes the setting of the electronic center coupling to optimize the four wheel-drive system in off-road conditions. In addition, Terrain Response includes Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Roll Stability Control (RSC) Engine Drag Control (EDC) and Gradient Release Control (GRC).

The many functions of Terrain Response are underpinned by the high levels of body stiffness which provide the best foundation for excellent ride and handling characteristics as well as off-road performance. A structural undertray on the front sub-frame improves §teering precision as well as protecting the underside of the vehicle and four point engine mounting aids engine stability and improves refinement. As wîth all Land Rovers, the LR2 is rigorously tested worldwide in the ÚK, ÚSA, Middle East, Australia and Russia in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 122C° and up to 95 percent humidity. The LR2 is also tested at altitudes of up to 13,100 ft.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 Land Rover LR2 is powered by a 3.2-liter inline-6 that produces 230 hp and 234 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. In Edmunds testing, the LR2 turned in a 0-60-mph time of 9.3 seconds, which is quite a bit slower than its competitors. Fuel economy is also underwhelming, with an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined. All-wheel drive is standard. The lack of low-range gearing keeps the LR2 from dominating more serious off-road obstacles, but the multi-setting Terrain Response AWD system helps to compensate by optimizing engine power, transmission gearing, center differential engagement, throttle response and traction control to increase mobility in four user-selectable conditions: General, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts and Sand.

Safety

The 2011 Land Rover LR2 comes with a decent complement of safety features that includes antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, roll stability control, hill-descent control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain and thorax airbags and a driver’s knee airbag.

The 2011 Land Rover Range Rover sees no major changes. Land Rover’s flagship SUV seats 5 and comes in HSE and Supercharged trims. Both models use a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The HSE has 375 horsepower, while the Supercharged has 510. A 6-speed automatic with manual shift gate is the lone transmission. Range Rovers have all-wheel drive with low-range gearing for off-road use. Also standard is Land Rover’s Terrain-Response system, which has a console switch that enables the driver to change suspension and powertrain calibrations to accommodate normal driving, slippery pavement, mud, sand, and low-speed off-roading. Hill-descent control is standard.

An electronic adaptive suspension is standard on the Supercharged and optional on the HSE. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. A navigation system, rearview camera, front- and rear-obstacle detection, and wireless cell-phone link are standard. An optional Luxury Interior Package for HSE models includes heated and cooled front seats with 14-way power adjustment, upgraded leather and wood interior trim, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, and 20-inch wheels.

An optional Vision Assist Package includes blind-spot alert, steering-linked adaptive headlights, and a “Surround-Camera” system that shows the driver nearly the entire circumference of the exterior on the navigation screen. The Supercharged’s Autobiography Package includes an infinitely variable locking rear differential, blind-spot alert, surround camera, 4-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, heated and cooled reclining rear seat, specific interior and exterior trim, and DVD entertainment.

The 2011 Land Rover LR4 is largely unchanged following its introduction for the 2010 model year. LR4 is this British automaker’s 7-passenger SUV. It comes in a single Base trim. The sole engine is a 375-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 that teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags.

LR4 has all-wheel drive with low-range gearing and Land Rover’s Terrain-Response system. This system has a console switch that enables the driver to change suspension and powertrain calibrations to accommodate normal driving, slippery pavement, mud, sand, and low-speed off-roading. Hill-descent control is also standard. Standard seating is for 5, and an optional 3rd-row bench increases passenger capacity to 7. The available HSE Package includes a navigaiton system, rearview camera, rear air conditioning, 3rd-row seat, and other features.

The Lux Package includes all the features of the HSE Package and adds upgraded leather interior trim, heated front and 2nd-row seats, front-obstacle detection, a cooler box in the center console, upgraded harmon/kardon stereo system, and a memory system that saves the driver’s seat, steering wheel, and mirror settings. The Lux Plus Package has been discontinued, but its features are now part of a “Vision Assist Package,” which includes a surround-camera system that shows the driver nearly the entire perimeter of the exterior on the navigation screen.

The 2009 Land Rover LR2 loses a trim level, but is otherwise unchanged following its introduction for the 2008 model year. This premium compact SUV seats five and has all-wheel drive without a low-range gear for off-roading. The base SE trim level has been discontinued, leaving the HSE as the only version offered.

The sole powertrain teams a 230-hp 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. LR2 comes with Land Rover’s Terrain Response system, which uses a console switch to alter suspension and powertrain calibrations to suit a variety of on- and off-road conditions. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Standard features include leather upholstery, rear-obstacle detection, and a sunroof. Options include a navigation system, satellite radio, heated front seats, steering-linked headlights, and a wireless cell-phone link.

The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport gets freshened styling, new available features, and new engines. This premium-midsize SUV seats 5 and shares some of its basic design with Land Rover’s 7-passenger LR4. Range Rover Sport comes as the HSE with a 375-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, which replaces a 300-horsepower 4.4-liter V8. The top-end Supercharged has a 510-horsepower 5.0-liter V8, which replaces a 390-horsepower 4.2-liter V8.

A 6-speed automatic is the sole transmission. All-wheel drive with low-range gearing is standard. It includes Land Rover’s Terrain Response system, which automatically tailors AWD performance to specific off-road conditions. A locking rear differential is optional. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Hill-descent control is standard, as are a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, front- and rear-obstacle detection, and a navigation system.

An adaptive air suspension is also standard. Among the new features offered are keyless entry/engine start as well as a “Surround-Camera” system that shows the driver nearly the entire circumference of the exterior on the screen of the standard navigation system. The available LUX package for HSE models includes heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, adjustable side bolsters on the driver’s seat, a cooler box in the center console, upgraded leather upholstery, wood interior trim, adaptive headlights, and 20-inch alloy wheels. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.