The tough and ready 2009 Land Rover LR3 can travel over rough terrain like a M4 Sherman tank and still offer a completely luxurious ride for all occupants. These midsized luxury SUVs are renowned for their ability to go virtually anywhere - and they also handle very well on the roads. This is especially impressive considering their nearly-6000 pound vehicular weight. Coincidentally, the main drag about the LR3s is the fact that they deliver only 17/12 mpg highway/city - sort of like a tank as well.

The 2009 LR3 has seen little change from the 2008 models. There have been a few exterior and interior tweaks, but otherwise they are direct carryovers. The most impressive characteristic of the LR3 is its beautiful blending of rugged power with a superior riding experience. Posh interior styling makes riders feel like they at home - even in the midst of the harshest terrain scenarios. The 2009 LR3 is as equally capable of effortlessly infiltrating bear country as it is at cruising the Vegas strip and commanding attention.

There are 2 trims available for the Land Rover LR3 for 2009: the HSE and the HSE Lux. It is notable that the LR3 was dubbed the Discovery until 2005 when a total redesign was implemented. The 2009 models retain their classic Land Rover look. The boxy and stout stance, the elevated rear roof line and the clamshell-like hood all make the LR3 stand out in the crowd - or in a parking lot filled with more commonly-styled vehicles.

Also retained is the vastly-spacious cabin. The 2009 LR3 continues the Land Rover tradition of roomy and versatile interior space that is loaded with an impressive list of standard features. Although some of the competition offer a bit more on the luxury side, they are completely unable to compare in the rugged and able department. The genuine wood trim is crafted from walnut. Almond-colored leather graces the interior along with nutmeg carpeting and very high-quality accenting materials.

Most critics agree that the 4.4L 300hp 315 lb-ft V8/6-speed drive train combo produce more than sufficient power. They also feel that the 2009 LR3 is more nimble than they had expected before driving one. The on-road handling is reported to be quite responsive indeed - a pleasant surprise to most test drivers. They are even more impressed by the Land Rover LR3's ability to dominate all terrain types with seeming effortlessness, the Jeep Grand Cherokee being its only competitor there.

The 4WD-configuration is augmented with standard features for safe control such as electronic traction control, Land Rover's Terrain Response system and a 2-speed electronically-controlled gearbox transfer case. Other standard safety features include anti-lock braking, Emergency Brake Assist, Active Roll Mitigation, Dynamic Stability Control, Hill Descent Control and Cornering Brake Assistance systems.

MSRPs begin at $45,975 for the super-tough, yet elegant 2009 Land Rover LR3. You will definitely be impressed as you ascend into the plane-like cabin and prepare for take-off. Check out the new LR3s today and experience the powerful feeling of unlimited terrain control.