The Land Rover LR3 is a luxury SUV that transports you so smoothly the LR might as well stand for limousine ride. But, even though the vast majority of drivers spend the vast majority of their vehicle time on roads, don't forget that this is an exceptionally capable off-road carrier. Our test drive model, an LR3 HSE, came with a 4.4-liter, 300 horsepower V-8 engine. The transmission was a six-speed, electronically controlled automatic that allowed the driver to choose from command-shift, sport and manual modes. The tester had permanent four-wheel drive with traction control. Additionally, if you need more proof that this thing is ready to go where there's no pavement, there is a terrain response system that lets the driver shift among general, snow, mud, sand and rock-crawl modes. The LR3 is not only able to go pretty much anywhere you might want to take a vehicle, but it also does so carrying seven passengers, should your crew be that large. Our tester was a beautiful silver 2008 model, which carried a sticker price of $57,950. But if you're willing to wait a little longer, you can hang on for an updated 2009 model that's coming out in the fall. The revisions aren't drastic but include restyled bumpers in the front and back and larger wheel arches that are rounder and body colored. Also, the grille bumpers and the handle for the tailgate will be body colored; currently they are black. The changes are meant to add a touch of sophistication to the LR3 design. Some models will have new 19-inch alloy wheels with a seven-spoke pattern. New colors will be available, too. They are Santorini Black, Galway Green, and Bournville, which is black with an element of brown, according to Land Rover. For the interior, a new ivory color scheme will be offered. - Cox News Service __
