Land Rover has given its LR4 a refresh that somehow manages to improve on the SUV’s winning go-anywhere, do-anything formula.
By Saif Haddad
At first glance, the new LR4 doesn’t look that much different than its boxy predecessor. But dig a little deeper, and it soon becomes clear that Land Rover has succeeded in making its formidable all-rounder even better.
The LR4 now comes with a single petrol engine option, a V6 3.0 Supercharged engine than can send the SUV to almost 195 km/h and from 0 to 100 km/h in about 7.7 seconds, which is impressive for a car of its size and weight. Its new engine produces up to 340 horsepower (60 more than its predecessor), as well as 450 Nm in torque. This makes it a very capable car on and off-road.
Outside, the LR4 now comes with LED headlights, side mirrors that are similar to the ones you might see on a Range Rover, and an option to customize air intake vents, side mirrors, door handles, and rims. This all gives the LR4 a more modern design and trendy feel.
Moving into the interior, the LR4 finally feels and looks like a real luxury Land Rover. They haven’t cut corners in terms of material and equipment. Both SE and HSE trim levels are heavily equipped with a few more convenience options on the latter. Soft-touch leather and wood upholsteries across the cabin, 8-way electrically adjustable front seats with memory presets, telescope and multifunctional steering wheel, touch-screen for infotainment (AUX, iPod/iPhone connectivity, Bluetooth Streaming + phone, CD-Changer, and internal hard disc), navigation, cameras and 4×4 options, not to mention a 3-zone climate control, 3 moon roofs, rear entertainment system, and a small beverage fridge.
In terms of driving, the LR4 is a huge beast, but body roll is kept to a minimum. Manoeuvring the car is made easier thanks to its large side mirrors that clearly show you what’s in the car’s blind spots. But the biggest surprise this SUV throws up is the unexpected power the engine delivers. From the outside, the first thought that comes to mind is: “It’s a big SUV, a lot of torque, but it’ll probably plod along.” But it doesn’t. It’s pleasingly rapid with a very nice throttle response that’s amongst the best I’ve experienced, and I had my fair share of SUVs. Gear shifts are quick and on-point, plus the Sport mode adds a little bit more kick to proceedings. When using the Sport (S) mode, gear shifts are further apart, which creates a sportier feel. While the steering wheel mounted shifting peddles give you more command over the gear box.
As for the down sides, they are minimal but nonetheless worth noting. While headroom is generous throughout, legroom in the second and third row of seats isn’t. And if the third row is in use, you can forget boot space. Also, the car sits quite high, and even with the easy access height engaged, some shorter individuals might find it a little bit hard to get into the car, unless you opt for the optional side steps.
Overall, the new LR4 is a great car for any person seeking power, utility, performance, and luxury. What’s more, it comes with a reasonable price tag when compared to other high-end offerings in its class.
Specifications
Engine: V6 3.0 Supercharged
Cylinders: Longitudinal V6
Bore (mm): 84.5
Stroke (mm): 89
Max. Power (PS @ rpm): 340 @ 6,500
Max. Torque (Nm @ rpm): 450 @ 3,500 – 5,000
