The LR4 will replace the LR3 in Land Rover's line-up, while the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport get significant updates for 2010.Power for the LR4 comes from a new 5.0-litre V8 with direct injection that develops 375 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, mated to a new 6-speed automatic transmission. The new engine produces 25% more power and 19% more torque than the LR3's 4.4-litre V8.
Like the outgoing LR3, the LR4 has room for 5 but an optional 3rd-row seat can accommodate two extra passengers. The new SUV also features an updated version of its Terrain Response four-wheel drive system and other techno-goodies such as a surround camera system.Meanwhile, exterior styling updates to the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models include new bumpers, grille and headlights. The interiors of both vehicles are also redesigned and feature, notably, a new flat-screen display with virtual controls.Under the hood, both RR and RR Sport engines are replaced. The 5.0-litre V8 that's also found in the LR4 serves as the base engine, while a supercharged version that bolts out 510 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque will be on duty in uplevel models that were previously powered by the 400-hp, supercharged 4.2-litre V8. Like in the LR4, the Terrain Response system has also been updated.Look for these new Land Rover models next fall.
photo: Philippe Champoux