Have you ever wanted to take the road less traveled or traverse up a hill just to get to the other side? But wait; there is another side to your driving adventurist-self that involves trips to work, the store, and the opera. Perhaps it’s in the need to show that you appreciate how you get there versus just getting there. You possess the desire to blend go-anywhere skills with high-tech comfort attributes. If this describes you then the 2011 Land Rover LR4 is calling to you.
The Land Rover LR4 was redesigned in 2010 and grew up from the previous generation known as the LR3. For 2011 the exterior remains mostly unchanged. With an upgraded interior, a new engine, a fresher exterior, and enhancements to the Terrain Response system, the 2011 LR4 is ready to take on the toughest terrain with an almost auto-like ride.
The model lineup for the 2011 Land Rover LR4 is as follows: LR4 (47,650), LR4 HSE ($52,750) and the HSE LUX ($57,665). The two HSE versions come in a 7-passenger configuration. You can add the 7-Seat Comfort package to the base model for $1,150, which includes a third row of flat-folding seats, head curtain airbags, map lights, climate controls, and an accessory power outlet.
The LR4 is probably the most conservative in styling of the Land Rover models, but still pulls off a beautiful unique profile. It continues the tall boxy shape of the LR3, but with rounder lines and angles. The design is a big improvement over the LR3 granting a more powerful presence in part due to the large fender flares. The raised roof in my test model had three sunroofs and the rear side windows extended all the way to the top of the raised-rear roof line. The LR4 grille features two horizontal bars with stretched honey-comb like cavities. Large square blocks of glass with round inserted headlamps stand guard on both sides of the grille. Chrome side vents add a flare of sportiness.
The wheels are extended outward creating short front and rear overhangs to avoid damage during an off-road rugged terrain adventure. New for 2011 are enhancements to the Terrain Response system including the new Hill Start Assist and the Gradient Acceleration Control. There are several other new standard options and features to enjoy.
The interior of the LR4 has been upgraded tremendously replacing cheap plastic trim with a leather-trimmed dash with rich wood trim, softer touch materials and improved placement of controls and knobs. In other words, the LR4 receives high marks for comfort, luxury, and utility. The quality of the fit, finish and materials are outstanding. The leather seats are comfortable and the LR4 has an innovated 35/30/35 split for the second row seats with each section folding flat.
The door panels are a combination of wood and chrome trim with big bold handles to either close the door or hold on tight while venturing off-road. The keyless entry system with Perimetric Sensing Security system can remain in your pocket or purse as the LR4 has push button start. The optional surround camera system uses five cameras – two facing forward, one on either side of the truck facing down, and one at the rear to give an approximate 360-degree view.
The Land Rover LR4 is equipped with the new 5.0-liter DOHC V8 with direct fuel injection and variable camshaft timing that launched on the 2010 model. It produces a respectable 375 horsepower and 375 foot-pounds of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission than can be placed in Normal, Sport and Manual modes and the electronic two-speed transfer case can be shifted on the fly. All-wheel drive is standard.
The suspension uses electronically controlled air springs and shock absorbers. The ride is smooth and the steering is responsive especially for a vehicle as tall as the LR4. The Terrain Response system has five settings: Highway, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl.
Room for improvement:
- Poor fuel economy at 12 City and 17 Highway
Cool Features:
- The Terrain Response System
- Nine Speaker Harman Kardon Sound System
- Start Ignition Button
The Land Rover LR4 safety equipment includes six airbags (eight with third-row seats), Dynamic Stability Control, Collision-activated inertia switch, ABS with Electronic Brake force distribution, Emergency Brake Assist, and tire pressure monitor system.
In Summary – The 2011 Land Rover LR4 with a starting sticker price below the $50,000 mark truly feels like a premium luxury vehicle. It comes with a long list of standard features and high-tech components including Bluetooth connectivity and a navigation system with off-road features. If you are looking for an extremely capable off-road vehicle with a combination of elegance and sportiness then check out the new 2011 Land Rover LR4.
Specifications2011 Land Rover LR4
Base price: $47,650 as driven: $52,850 (including destination)
Engine: 5.0-liter V8-cylinder
Horsepower: 375 @ 6500
Torque: 375 foot pounds @ 3500
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic with Overdrive and CommandShift
Drive: Four Wheel-Drive
Seating: 7-passenger
Turning circle: 37.3 feet
Cargo space: 90.3 cubic feet
Curb weight: 5,833 pounds
Fuel capacity: 23.3 gallons
EPA mileage: City 12 / Highway 17
Wheel Base: 113.6 inches
Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper to bumper
Also consider: Acura MDX, BMW X5, Lexus RX 350, and Mercedes-Benz GLK
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