The 2009 Land Rover LR2 is the smallest in a lineup of proven SUVs from this automaker. With a base price of $35,000, it's by far the most affordable as well. The LR2 is classified as a compact luxury SUV, and competes with the Acura RDX and the BMW X3. The LR2 remains unchanged from last year's model, with the exception of the addition of an HST option package. Even this involves only minor stylistic options. Available trim levels include the base SE, and the top end HSE models.

Only one engine is available in the 2009 LR2. A 230 HP 3.2L inline 6 cylinder engine powers the permanent four wheel drive with a six speed automatic transmission. The smallest offering of Land Rover comes standard with the Terrain Response System, which can be set for any one of four different terrain settings. Estimated fuel mileage is said to be 15 around the city, and 22 on the highway. Obviously, this is somewhat poor for a vehicle of this size.

There are several standard safety features in the 2009 LR2. They include antilock brakes, as well as front, side and curtain airbags. There is even a driver's side knee airbag. The electronic stability system includes Ford's Roll Stability Control system. The interior of this SUV is almost identical to that of its larger sibling, the LR3. The interior area allows five occupants to sit comfortably in the two rows of seats. There is also a considerable amount of cargo space for a vehicle this small.

On the outside, the 2009 LR2 continues to mimic the larger LR3. It's virtually identical, only on a smaller scale. A couple of items to note are the ground clearance and approach angle, which are 8.1" and 31 degrees respectively. This makes the LR2 more suited for off road use than its main competition. Available options include 19" wheels, and body colored, painted bumpers.

The 2009 Land Rover LR2 is a nice little SUV that is capable of impressing off road, as well as on the city streets. An individual will get all of the quality and performance that Land Rover has to offer with a significantly lower price. The only problem may be that a growing family will likely outgrow it rather quickly, and find they will need a larger vehicle. In such cases, those individuals are looking at spending a considerably larger amount of money, unless they choose to abandon the Land Rover name all together.