LR3 vs LR4: Major Differences Pointed Out

You’re planning to own an LR3 or an LR4. But you don’t know which one to choose. Don’t worry it’s exactly what we’re here for. 

So, what are the major differences between LR3 vs LR4?

The most important difference is that the LR4 has a bigger engine with increased horsepower and torque. Also, compared to the LR3, the LR4 has advanced technology, interior, and safety features. This makes the LR4 model more expensive than the LR3. However, the features of the LR3 are also very standard with increased off-roading ability.

This is just a brief overview. The details will be discussed throughout the whole article. So, stick with us. 

LR3 VS LR4: A Quick Comparision

The Land Rover LR3 production years were from 2004 to 2009 and for LR4 from 2009 to 2016. So, we’ll compare the latest production year for each model here. 

Now, if you take a glance you’ll get a good idea regarding the two models. 

Features	LR3 (2009 version)	LR4 (2016 version)
Trim Levels	2 trims	4 trims
Engine Performance	4.4-liter V8 engine Horsepower: 300 HP maxTorque: 315 lbs max	3.0-liter supercharged V6 engineHorsepower: 340 HP maxTorque: 332 lbs max
Fuel Economy & Range (City/Highway/Combined)	EPA Estimated 12 / 17 / 14 MPG.273.60 / 387.60 miles.	EPA Estimated  15 / 19 / 16 MPG.342.00 / 433.20 miles.
Fuel Tank Capacity	22.8 gal.	22.8 gal.
Transmission	6-speed automatic transmission	8-speed shiftable automatic transmission
Technology	Haldex all-wheel drive and Terrain Response system.Smaller brakes than LR4.Electronic parking brake.	Height-adjustable air suspension.Bigger brakes than LR3.Stop-start technology standard.
Interior	Seating capacity 5-7.No colors available.	Seating capacity 5-7.4 colors available.Increased interior features.
Safety	Less Updated	More Updated
Warranty Features	Basic warranty: 4 yearsCorrosion perforation warranty: 6 yearsMaintenace Warranty: 6 monthsPowertrain / Drivetrain warranty: 4 yearsRoadside assistance coverage: 4 years	Basic warranty: 4 yearsCorrosion perforation warranty: 6 yearsPowertrain / Drivetrain warranty: 4 yearsRoadside assistance coverage: 4 years
Price	New: Starting at $45,975Used: $3,900 – $15,066	New: $50,900Used: $19,896 – $40,965

LR3 vs LR4: An In-Depth Analysis

Now we’re gonna dive in for a more detailed analysis of LR3 vs LR4. You’ll find the description of every feature for both models here. So, dive in. 

Engine Performance:

The LR4 in 2013 has a 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 engine. And produces around 340 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the LR3 usually comes with a 4.4-liter V8 engine with a max 300 horsepower and 315 lbs of torque. 

So, the LR4 has a bigger engine than LR3 with increased horsepower and torque. Also, LR4 has 4 trims in its latest 2016 model while LR3 has only 2 trims in its last 2009 model year. 

But you should note one thing that is there are a few supercharged engine problems of the land rover. 

Winner: LR4

Fuel Economy and Tank Capacity:

The LR3 has lower fuel economy than the LR4. But, both have the same fuel tank capacity of 22.8 gallons. 

Land Rover LR3’s range is 273 to 387 miles respectively in city and highway. While LR4’s is 342 to 433 miles respectively in city and highway. So, you’ll have much less gas station stops using the LR4.

Winner: LR4

Transmission:

The 2016 Land Rover LR4 comes standard with 8-speed automatic transmission in all trim levels. On the other hand, the 2009 Land Rover LR3 came standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth acceleration and a broad range of gear ratios. In order to accommodate a variety of driving circumstances. While the automatic 6-speed transmission is the only option for LR3’s models.

Winner: LR4

Technology:

Between the LR3 and LR4, it’s clear that Land Rover made tremendous improvements and considerable enhancements to the LR4. This provides a more technologically sophisticated driving experience. 

The Land Rover LR3’s technology is pretty decent for its day. It included standard radio with a CD player, power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone automatic temperature control. 

However, as technology advanced, the LR4 received numerous major updates. This made the Land Rover LR4’s technology more advanced. 

The improved infotainment system was one of the most notable changes in the LR4. They made the touchscreen display and the brakes of the LR4 bigger. It also added keyless entry and ignition, power-operated tailgate features, and a more improved terrain response system. 

The LR4 features a more advanced all-wheel-drive than the LR3. LR4 also features a stop-start technology standard in its trim levels. 

Now if we compare the technology of Land Rovers and Range Rovers you’ll find a particular problem in the latter. That is sometimes Range Rover Sport USB malfunctions. 

Winner: LR4

Interior & Ride Quality:

In the case of LR3 vs LR4, there were significant upgrades made to the LR4. Which gives the Land Rover LR4’s interior a more modern and elegant look. Both have a seating capacity of 5 with optional third row for another two seats. 

Land Rover LR3’s interior is covered with premium materials, such as leather upholstery and wood or metallic accents. This gives it a very luxurious look. But LR3 offers only one colors for its 2009 model. 

On the other hand, the LR4’s cabin has been updated with soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and superb workmanship. The fit and finish are noticeably enhanced, indicating Land Rover’s attention to detail in producing a more upmarket cabin.

But in terms of ride quality and off-roading, LR3 is superior with its superior suspension tuning. But for on-road and highway journey, LR4 offers better traction and ride quality. 

Winner: Tie

Safety:

The Land Rover LR3 safety features were fitted with basic safety equipment that was prevalent at the time. Antilock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, and numerous airbags throughout the interior were all provided. 

On the other hand, LR4 safety technology includes the Adaptive Cruise Control system, Blind Spot Monitoring, The Lane Departure Warning, etc. These are important safety measures for an enhanced, seamless and hazard-free driving.

There is one problem though for Land Rovers. It’s the Land Rover’s SOS limited functionality. 

Winner: LR4

Warranty Features:

The Land Rover models come with a few warranty measures. These warranties help the car owners remain at peace of mind. 

Here are the warranties that are offered to the LR3 and the LR4 models.

Warranty (LR3 2009)	Condition
Basic warranty	48 months / 50,000miles
Corrosion perforation warranty	72 months / Unlimited distance
Maintenance warranty	6 months / 7,500miles
Powertrain / Drivetrain warranty	48 months / 50,000miles
Roadside assistance coverage	48 months / 50,000miles

Warranty (LR4 2016)	Condition
Basic warranty	48 months / 50,000miles
Corrosion perforation warranty	72 months / Unlimited distance
Powertrain / Drivetrain warranty	48 months / 50,000miles
Roadside assistance coverage	48 months / 50,000miles

Winner: Tie

Price:

The used Land Rover LR3 price range is between $3,900 – $15,066. And the price for the used  LR4 ranges from $19,896 – $40,965. But for a new one, LR3 starts at $45,975 and LR4 starts at $50,900 MSRP. 

LR3’s price range is quite affordable for people who are looking for a top-class SUV at a lower price range. And as LR4 is newer than LR3, it costs more as for having upgrades and advanced technology. 

Final Verdict

The bottom line is you’ll get an excellent SUV if you’re opting for either of the two models. The LR3 has decent performance, technology, safety, interior, and off-raoding ability. And you’ll get this at a very reasonable price. 

On the other hand, the LR4 has all these but better. It has a better engine, safety, technology, and interior than the LR3. However, it comes at a great cost. LR3 and LR4’s reliability as a car are quite good and neither will make you regret it. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Does The LR4 Have An Air Suspension System?

Yes, the LR4 has an air suspension system. The LR4 has an adjustable air suspension system that let drivers manually alter the vehicle’s ride height. This function improves off-road performance by increasing ground clearance when navigating difficult terrain. As well as on-road comfort. 

Does The LR4 Have A Surround Camera System?

Yes, the LR4 has a surround camera system. The LR4 was one of the first vehicle to offer a surround camera system option. It uses many cameras strategically positioned around the vehicle to offer a 360-degree vision. This function helps drivers with parking, navigating in tight areas, and off-road vision. 

Does The LR3 Have Hill Descent Control?

Yes, the LR3 has hill descent control. This enables a controlled and steady descent down steep slopes without forcing the driver to constantly engage the brakes. This feature increased safety and confidence when descending difficult terrain. This increases the overall performance of the vehicle. 

Endnote

Hopefully, this clears out your query about LR3 vs LR4.

Now you can make an informed decision on which one to choose. In the end, whichever you choose, one thing is certain. That is you’ll not regret it. Catch you later.