The 2010 LR4 promises to be the most advanced, most sophisticated Land Rover yet. Built on the platform of the successful LR3, the fourth generation of the famed LR has been completely redesigned to be more powerful and more appealing than ever.
Design of Land Rover’s newest is striking and refined. Wide, flat paneling adheres to Land Rover’s classic roots, but adds an unmistakable element of simplistic modernism. Elements like the intricate two-bar chrome grille, flanking LED headlamps and foglamps and side-cut air intakes attract immediate attention and are framed by powerful wheels and exaggerated wheel arches.
There is an overwhelming sense of poise and craftsmanship at work here - seams are tight, and edges are beautifully beveled. The LR4’s stance is confident and active. Though it borrows in spirit from the LR3, the newest iteration is more streamlined, more athletic and even more appealing.
While they’re built on the same platform, similarities between the third and fourth generation LR models cease beneath the hood where the LR4 features a larger, more advanced power plant. Designed similarly to the performance-oriented XF from Jaguar (a Land Rover affiliate), the engine of the all-new LR4 is an impressive 5.0-liter direct-injection V8. Controlled by a quick, smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, the V8 achieves 375 hp and 375 lb/ft of torque.
In addition to the additional raw power and strength, Land Rover’s new engine is a model of cleanliness and efficiency. Variable camshaft timing and a smooth-flowing exhaust system streamline the combustion process and ensure more precise response time. Fuel economy and emissions have been dramatically improved as well, making this the most efficient LR to date.
For 2010, the suspension has been upgraded with a stiffer anti-roll bar, larger, more powerful brakes and a more precise, more responsive traction control system. Land Rover’s intuitive Terrain Response system has been enhanced to feature a new “sand launch” directive, yet still allows you to select a number of terrain-specific modes for exceptional traction on and off-road.
Interior styling has also been given a modern facelift to match the contemporary and simplistic theme of the LR4. Beyond new interior color schemes and a refreshed gauge and driver information screen design, the most noticeable differences in this year’s introduction are found in the front of the cabin. The design of the center stack itself has been simplified, eliminating almost half of the controls of the LR3 (without eliminating the innovative systems they control, of course). Seating has been made more confident and comfortable in the front.
Aside from their obvious emphasis on advanced performance, Land Rover engineers have made sure to simplify and streamline innovation and technology within their latest creation. As mentioned, controls have been relocated to ensure easy, fingertip control over major systems while contemporary additions like iPod connectivity, ambient lighting, a five-camera parking system and high-beam assist ensure exceptional convenience.
More refined, more capable and more powerful than ever before, the 2010 LR4 is more than a small step for Land Rover; it marks a giant leap forward for the model. The impressive and popular LR3 has been improved, reshaped and rethought in nearly every way possible, resulting in one of Land Rover’s finest introductions yet.
Look for the LR4 this fall.
