The Land Rover LR4 was updated last year with an all-new powertrain, a more luxurious interior and chassis refinements, so 2011 brings only minor changes that include more dynamic control features and a new optional Vision Assist Package.
The 2011 LR4 has a base price of $48,500 and it is again available with the HSE and HSE LUX upgrade packages. New enhancements to the Terrain Response system beef up the SUV’s already strong off-road capability, while new and reconfigured option packages enhance the vehicle’s luxury and value.
New features include:
• Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control to help negotiate severe slopes in off-road driving;
• Bluetooth phone connectivity is now standard;
• Seven-Seat Comfort Package for the HSE and HSE LUX models includes third-row seat, head curtain airbags, climate control, map lights and an accessory power socket;
• Rear View Camera is now standard with the HSE;
• Halogen headlights on the HSE Package now include LED Signature Lighting;
• Climate Comfort Package is now a standalone option on the LR4 base model and HSE, and included in HSE LUX;
• Premium Audio Upgrade is available on HSE Package;
• Black Lacquer finish is a new interior trim option, and
• New Vision Assist Package for HSE and HSE LUX includes xenon HID headlights (HSE only, already standard on HSE LUX); Adaptive Front Lighting System (swiveling headlights); Automatic High Beam Assist (AHBA) and a Surround Camera System; power-folding mirrors; Trailer Assist and Trailer Hitch Assist.
The LR4’s 5.0-liter LR V-8 with direct fuel injection and torque-activated Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) develops 375 hp and 375 poundsfeet of torque. It’s exceptionally responsive at all speeds (clocking 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds) and is an excellent tow vehicle, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,716 pounds.
The powerful LR V-8 is coupled to a sixspeed adaptive automatic transmission with CommandShift featuring Normal, Sport and Manual shift modes. The transmission sends power to all four wheels through an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with shift-on-the-move capability.
Engineered for rugged off-road travel, the LR V-8 has a deep, pressure die-cast oil pan to accommodate the extreme tilting angles the LR4 can negotiate. Belt drives are waterproofed, as are the alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump and starter motor.
On the inside, the LR4 has a soft, elegant interior that combines smooth, flowing surfaces with easy-to-use controls. The console is inclined towards the driver, and all models feature a steering wheel with switches to access driver information and operate the audio system, cruise control and optional steering wheel heating. Leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof are among the LR4’s standard amenities. A choice of naturalfinish woods, along with stitched and wrapped fascia, door casings and center console add to the vehicle’s handcrafted feel.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.
