2008 Land Rover LR2
Based on analysis of 37 LR2 reviews and test drives.
Land Rover LR2 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Land Rover LR2 ranks 2 out of 3 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 37 published reviews and test drives of the Land Rover LR2, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The LR2 offers very good off-road driving capabilities and strong safety features, but buyers should be aware that Land Rover has a poor record for reliability.
The 2008 Land Rover LR2 is a replacement for the unsuccessful Land Rover Freelander. Although it's called the Freelander 2 in Europe, the LR2 is a brand new vehicle, redesigned from the ground up for the 2008 model year. It's the smallest and least expensive Land Rover, but has many features comparable to the more upscale LR3 and Range Rover models, as well as an appearance that will be recognizable to those familiar with other Land Rovers.
Reviewers generally like the LR2, especially compared to the model it replaces. "The all-new compact Land Rover LR2 is a more powerful, more stylish and more rugged replacement for the lackluster Freelander," says Forbes. Nonetheless, a few reviewers find it disappointing because it doesn't truly excel in any one category.
Though quality ratings are not yet in for the LR2, there is serious concern over the reliability record of the manufacturer, with more than one reviewer noting that Land Rover has frequently suffered from poor reliability test ratings. In addition, even though the LR2 is less costly than the LR3 or Range Rovers, some find it pricey for what you get. But for buyers who want luxury appointments and status, many critics say the LR2 represents a great value.
- "The LR2 is an excellent vehicle and the price is very competitive when comparing it to other high-end compact SUVs such as the Acura MDX and BMW X3." -- Detroit News
- "Overall: Drives well, looks smart, roomy up front. Wait to be sure quality is better than that of previous Land Rovers." -- USA Today
- "All things considered, the LR2 is worth a test drive -- a premium brand for something less than a premium price." -- Sacramento Bee
- "The LR2 is good enough to compete; the variable is whether people will pay the extra for a Land Rover over a CR-V, which does pretty much everything equally well, except for bounding through the boonies." -- Car and Driver
LR2 Performance - 7.5 (Good)
Most reviewers say the 2008 Land Rover LR2 has strong off-road capabilities and an adequate ride on road. Road and Track says the LR2 has "laudable ride comfort" and "predictable handling with good steering communication." The LR2 also has a number of innovative electronic features, including the Terrain Response system, which allows the driver to adjust the handling behavior of almost every component of the vehicle. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why some critics are disappointed that the Land Rover lacks a low-range transfer case for true off-roading. continue
LR2 Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
Reviewers find the 2008 Land Rover LR2's looks appealing. "Perhaps where the LR2 shines most brightly is in its exterior styling," says Road and Track. Continue with our full Exterior review to learn more about why reviewers like the Land Rover's upscale look, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
LR2 Interior - 7.2 (Good)
Reviewers differ on the comfort and luxury level inside the 2008 Land Rover LR2, but most agree with the Orlando Sentinel that "the interior is very nicely done." Though the front seats are very comfortable, reviewers say the back seat is better suited for two adults than three. Continue with our Interior Review to learn why some reviewers take issue with the LR2's push-button starter -- which requires placing the key fob in a slot before it will work -- or check out our interior photos. continue
LR2 Safety - NA
Reflecting reviewer consensus, the Detroit News calls the 2007 Land Rover LR2's safety equipment "excellent." Government crash tests are not yet available, making it difficult to determine how safe the LR2 actually is. However, the LR2 has a rich set of safety features, including stability control and two systems to prevent it from having an accident while descending hills or steep roads. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn more about the LR2's standard equipment. continue
LR2 Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Land Rover LR2 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Land Rover offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty on the LR2. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn more about Land Rover's reputation for dependability issues. continue
