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2011 Land Rover LR4 HSE Review

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Justin Pritchard
World-class comfort on the road less travelled
Fragrant leather, aluminum trim and gloss-black accents dress things up, there’s adequate at-hand storage, a generous cargo hold, and even a flip-down combination tailgate for easy loading of gear. There’s a refrigerated centre console, three sunroofs and a brilliantly potent Harman-Kardon audio system, too.

A generous cargo hold, and even a flip-down combination tailgate for easy loading of gear. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)

Other goodies include an advanced camera system to keep drivers from whacking into stuff, automatic high beams and a voice-commanded navigation system that issues spoken directions with a delightful British accent. Build quality and materials selection are top-notch, and the cabin favours a simple, traditional look as opposed to an overwhelmingly high-tech one.

Quiet, relaxing cruising
On the road, LR4’s solid, rugged and planted ride feels locked down, heavy and tough—but with a comfortable softness dialled in around the edges. Surprisingly quiet, too. Even at speed, only modest licks of road noise make their way past the extensive sound deadening, and wind noise levels are comparable to those found in a luxury sedan.

Drivers after a rugged, stable and peaceful driving dynamic will love it. This is a turf-tossing utility vehicle that just nails it where relaxation and a laid-back atmosphere are concerned.

Great ride quality off the road, too
Hit the dirt, and the LR4 handles things with the same comfort and refinement apparent on paved roads. Gravel? Moguls? Mud? Rocks? Minimal noise gets into the cabin, and the suspension feels composed and heavy duty. Clearance aplenty and minimal front and rear overhangs mean you’ll have trouble scraping underneath, too.

A downhill assist control keeps things classy when descending steep and slippery grades, though shoppers after some serious wheeling adventures will probably want to upgrade the factory tires. Even in fairly deep mud, your writer noted no major issues with traction and never had to call for a tug out. The electronics at work here really help keep things moving through just about anything.

Gravel? Moguls? Mud? Rocks? Minimal noise gets into the cabin, and the suspension feels composed and heavy duty. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)
Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
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