Land Rover LR2

Overview: Is the Land Rover LR2 a Good Compact Luxury SUV?

The Land Rover LR2, known as the Freelander 2 in other markets, is a compact luxury SUV with upscale amenities, off-road capability, and a distinctive British design. Sold in the United States from 2008 to 2015, the LR2 served as an entry point into the Land Rover lineup, appealing to buyers who sought a more affordable and maneuverable alternative to the larger Range Rover and LR3 models.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Land Rover LR2 cars for sale.

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Related: Are Land Rovers Expensive To Maintain?

Key Features

The Land Rover LR2 offers:

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• 3.2-liter inline-six engine (2008-2012) or 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (2013-2015)
• 6-speed automatic transmission
• Full-time all-wheel drive

Trims

For many years, the Land Rover LR2 was available in a single well-equipped trim level, HSE, that could be upgraded with options like a navigation system, HD Radio, and satellite radio. Land Rover offered an entry-level SE or Sport grade for specific years and a more premium HSE Lux.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Step inside the Land Rover LR2, and you'll find a cabin with premium materials and a functional layout. The front seats provide good support and adjustability, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats offer adequate space for two adults or three children, with the added versatility of a 60/40-split folding design.

On the technology front, the LR2 features a touchscreen infotainment system with available navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium Meridian audio system. While not as advanced as some competitors' offerings, the LR2's technology suite is generally user-friendly and intuitive.

When it comes to cargo, the LR2's compact dimensions do result in less storage space than some rivals. However, with up to 58.9 cubic feet of space available with the rear seats folded down, the LR2 still offers a respectable amount of room.

How It Drives

One of the Land Rover LR2's standout features is its full-time all-wheel-drive system, which provides confident traction and handling in challenging driving conditions. The available Terrain Response system allows drivers to optimize the vehicle's performance for different surfaces, such as mud, sand, or snow.

Under the hood, the LR2 initially featured a 3.2-liter inline-six (i6) engine that produces 230 horsepower and 234 lb-ft of torque. For the 2013 model year, Land Rover replaced this engine with a more efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (i4), which delivers 240 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

On the road, the LR2 offers a comfortable and composed ride, with a suspension that effectively absorbs most bumps and road imperfections. While not as sporty as some competitors, the LR2's handling is competent and predictable.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) did not evaluate the Land Rover LR2 during its sales run in the U.S.

Reviews

Land Rover LR2 reviews on Kelley Blue Book are primarily positive—owners gave their LR2s an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. Rankings are especially high for performance, styling, reliability, and comfort.

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FAQs

Is the Land Rover LR2 AWD or 4WD?

The Land Rover LR2 features a full-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which continuously distributes power to all four wheels. This system, coupled with the available Terrain Response technology, provides enhanced traction and stability in different driving conditions, both on and off the road.

Are Land Rovers cheap to fix?

Land Rovers, including the LR2, are generally more expensive to maintain and repair than non-luxury vehicles. This is due to several factors, such as higher parts costs, specialized service requirements, and the complexity of the vehicles' systems. However, proper maintenance and timely repairs can help improve Land Rover LR2 reliability.

When was the Land Rover LR2 discontinued?

The Land Rover LR2 was discontinued in the United States after the 2015 model year. It was replaced by the Land Rover Discovery Sport, a more modern and technically advanced compact luxury SUV that built upon the LR2's foundation while offering better efficiency, performance, and interior space.

Is the Land Rover LR2 a 4x4?

Yes, the Land Rover LR2 is considered a 4x4 vehicle, thanks to its full-time all-wheel-drive system and off-road-oriented features like the Terrain Response system. While not as rugged or capable as some larger Land Rover models, the LR2 offers decent all-terrain performance for a compact luxury SUV.

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