There’s just something about a Land Rover. Maybe it’s that easily discernible English air, or the fact that it subtly calls out “luxury” while maintaining that off-road ruggedness that tells you it’s no prissy city car. The 2012 LR4 is a refined balance of beauty and function, with enough off-road capabilities to keep the rough-n-tumble crowd happy and available headrest DVD entertainment system for those who need a little calm.
Key Features
The 7” color touch screen, rain-sensing windshield wipers, panoramic roof and front moon roof, and premium audio package add luxury to this all-terrain vehicle. Meanwhile the 4-corner air suspension and hill descent control – which allows you to go down steep inclines at an even keel – lend the rough and tumble functionality that makes a Land Rover, well, a Land Rover.
Changes for 2012
Both the navigation system and the audio package received an upgrade for the 2012 model year.
What We Like
Exclusive to its class, the folding tailgate makes loading up the generous 78 cubic foot cargo area much easier. The backup camera and sedan-like handling further improve the driving experience.
What Concerns Us
While the Terrain Response System is a definite plus that makes off-road handling a breeze even for the novice, the top-heavy cornering can make the driver feel a bit out of control when dealing with sharp bends. The 2012 Land Rover LR4 is also quite the fuel-thirsty monster.
Available Models
The base model of the 2012 Land Rover LR4 comes with a 5.0L V8 4x4 6-speed automatic with 375 lb.-ft. torque, 375 HP, and 12/17 mpg. Trims come in base, HSE (which offers a third row for 7 passengers), and Lux, which adds heated seats and better audio.
Major Recalls
Some LR4s were recalled in June of 2015 due to the use of incorrect primer in securing the panoramic roof. This could potentially allow the roof to come loose, increasing the chances of an accident. The company rectified the situation by issuing a notice that they would repair the issue at no charge.
Common Issues
There have been several complaints regarding latency time on the radio system. Users claim it takes 3-4 seconds to respond to input, increasing the danger of a crash due to the driver having to take their eyes off the road to see if the radio perceived their input. Land Rover has not offered a fix for this issue.
