First Look: 2010 Land Rover LR4

For 2010, the Land Rover LR3 becomes the LR4 (by Land Rover's count it's the fourth generation of the Discovery, as the vehicle is known in other markets). The difference between the LR3 and the LR4 might not be immediately apparent to the casual onlooker. There's a new grille, a new front bumper, and new LED headlamps. A new interior-dash, door panels, instrument cluster-largely follows the previous design theme but uses more soft-touch materials and groups more functions in the central touch screen. A keyless ignition is now standard and a 360-degree-view camera system is optional. The most significant changes are mechanical, starting with a new V-8 engine. In place of the old 4.4-liter V-8 is a new, direct-injected 5.0-liter unit. Output jumps to 375 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque (from 300 hp and 315 lb-ft), and Land Rover claims a 0-to-60-mph time of 7.5 seconds. The chassis also has been upgraded, with more powerful brakes, revised suspension geometry, and retuned dampers. The stability control system can now compensate for trailer sway. Expect the first batches of LR4s to arrive at dealerships in October.