2010 Land Rover LR4

The Land Rover LR4 debuted at the New York Auto Show this month as the successor to the LR3.  Although it doesn’t look drastically different from the LR3, the noticeable and subtle cosmetic changes make this vehicle much sharper.  Of course, the major changes were mechanical, including a more powerful engine and improved chassis.

In my opinion, the most important design change made to the exterior styling from the LR3 is the grille, which is the mesh chrome design present in other Land Rovers.  The LR3 had a crossbar grille that matched the color of the rest of its exterior.  I love the contrast the chrome provides, and it’s one of the coolest Land Rover traits, so I’m glad to see it back on the LR4.  The front bumper is also updated a bit, and the LR4 sports new LED headlamps.

Inside, significant changes have taken place.  The interior keeps the same design structure but whispers more luxury due to fewer buttons and controls on the dash.  For ergonomics, the center stack tilts toward the driver, and the steering wheel sees a more convenient button arrangement.  Additionally, the seat cushions were improved for better thigh support, and LED ambient lighting provides a warm, elegant effect even while you wind up a mountain.

As I said though, the most major distance between the LR3 and the LR4 is the upgrade in engine.  Kicking the already-powerful 4.4-liter V-8 of the LR3 to the curb, the LR4 incorporates a new direct-injected 5.0-liter that pushes the horsepower to 375, up from 300 horsepower in the LR3.  The LR4 also possesses 20 percent more torque than the LR3 and comes with more powerful brakes.

So we’ve talked about all the changes, but what is just as important with this model are the things that have stayed the same, the features that make for the classic Land Rover experience.  It’s beautiful, inclined profile remains, as does its massive amount of interior space.

I’m looking forward to driving the LR4 when it arrives at Chicago Land Rover dealers.  Anyone who knows me knows that I love any vehicle that has the potential to carry me deep into the mountains on my next hiking trip.  So when I get in my Chicago Land Rover LR4, the salesperson riding along with me from the Chicago Land Rover dealer should be prepared for Colorado weather.

Here is a quick overview of the LR4 at the New York Auto Show from the folks at Kelly Blue Book: