Land Rover LR3 2008
By Benjamin Cyr
A real 4X4
For those who may be tempted to buy a «real » 4X4, know that the LR3 with V8 starts at $63,000. A reasonable price which allows the LR3 to compete with its various rivals. Let’s count on ongoing reliability in the ensuing years, regardless of the LR3’s solid superiority over its predecessor, the poor Discovery.
Giving winter the finger
What a winter in 2008! Record snowfalls throughout Québec. The conditions are ripe for evaluating one of the best 4X4 on the planet, the Land Rover. Let’s look at a fully equipped LR3 HSE which retails for $76,000. We tested this vehicle in 2006 under very harsh off-road summer conditions. Now, will it handle the snow and ice?
It adapts to road conditions
Whether it’s the highway, on icy secondary roads or snow covered bumpy paths, the LR3 adapts to all situations. Firstly, it has electronically controlled air suspension which can regulate the vehicle’s height and raise ground clearance. Secondly, the Terrain Response system offers five modes, depending on the situation (normal, grass/snow/gravel, mud and ruts, sand and boulders. Thirdly, if you want more there’s a steep hill descent mechanism, a continuously variable electronic blocking rear differential. In short, a real beast! Believe you me, after battling the worst winter weather conditions in my lifetime, the LR3 didn’t blink an eye. The increased security is exemplary. Although most vehicles I passed were dead in deep snow, The Land Rover went on its merry way. I was very impressed by the various systems aforementioned. |
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