Pros: Land-Rover’s typical off-road prowess; available 3rd row is more hospitable than in many midsize SUVs; comfortable, commanding driving position; significantly cheaper than a Range Rover
Cons: Considerable fuel thirst, even with new supercharged V6 engine instead of the previous V8; not all testers like unusual two-piece liftgate design
CG Says: For 2014, Land Rover’s LR4 gets a new supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a fuel-saving start/stop feature. Updated styling, new available stereo systems, and a standard backup camera are also among the changes. The LR4 certainly has its place, being one of the few midsize SUVs of any stripe with genuine off-road credentials (other Land Rovers not withstanding). Unfortunately, even folks who do end up purchasing one of these will probably never fully exploit this capability. When used primarily as an on-road vehicle, the LR4 delivers decent passenger and cargo room, along with high levels of luxury and refinement. Ultimately, the LR4 is challenged in the marketplace by perceptions more than reality, along with its hefty sticker price and thirst for premium-grade gasoline.
