2008 Land Rover LR2

Power

Every LR2 has permanent "intelligent" all-wheel drive. Only a little torque goes to the rear wheels under normal conditions; in tough off-road situations, almost all can go to the rear wheels if needed. An LR2 can tow a 3,500-pound braked trailer.


Off-roading specifications suggest respectable capabilities, starting with minimum ground clearance of 8.26 inches. An LR2 can wade through water up to 19.68 inches deep, according to Land Rover. Approach and departure angles for climbing over rocks and the like are 29 and 32 degrees, respectively.


Four Terrain Response settings are available to suit conditions, from highway to off-road: general driving, grass/gravel/snow, mud/ruts, and sand. Terrain Response commands the Dynamic Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, traction control, and antilock braking. Gradient Release Control permits easier start-off on steep or slippery slopes. Alloy 18-inch wheels hold all-terrain tires.


Land Rover promises "generous head, shoulder and legroom" for five, and most passengers would agree. The LR2's elevated "command driving" position is a Land Rover hallmark, while what's called "stadium seating" puts rear passengers on a slightly higher level. At 58.9 cubic feet with the backseats folded, cargo space ranks among the best in class according to Land Rover, but it trails such rivals as the Acura RDX and, by a greater margin, BMW's X3. With the seats up, it's 26.7 cubic feet.

Interior

Except for slight driveline whine at times, the LR2 is almost eerily silent. Unlike some Land Rover models of the past, too, it's a smooth runner. Very easy to drive compared to bigger Range Rover models, the LR2 steers and operates with a light touch, but not without a reasonable level of confidence.