2003 Land Rover Range Rover: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Land Rover replaces its aging flagship for 2003 with a larger, more powerful, more technically sophisticated Range Rover. This is only the third redesign in the model's 31-year history, and the first with unibody construction and all-independent suspension. A 5-passenger-wagon format is retained, but styling is new, wheelbase grows 5.3 inches, overall length by 9.4, and curb weight by 400 lb. This Range Rover was developed by BMW, which sold Land Rover to Ford in 2000. Its modified version of the V8 found in BMW's X5 has 68 hp more than the previous Range Rover's V8. A 5-speed automatic transmission with separate gate for manual shifting replaces a 4 speed. An antiskid/traction-control system is standard, as is hill descent control to limit speed on steep descents--now in reverse as well as forward. The all-wheel-drive system can access low-range gearing "on the fly" at low speeds. A single HSE model is offered and comes with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes with full-power assist, plus height-adjusting air-spring suspension. Front torso side airbags are standard, as are front-and-rear head-protecting tubular side airbags. Retained is a 2-piece clamshell tailgate, but 19-inch wheels replace 18s as standard. Also standard are front/rear-obstacle warning, a navigation system, and a 60/40 split folding rear bench seat. Windshield and wipers/washers are heated. Heated front and rear seats and a heated steering wheel are optional. Added midyear to the standard xenon low-beam headlights were xenon high beams.

COMPETITION

Luxury SUVs vary in size and type, including former members of both the Full-size and Midsize SUV classes, along with a few all-new models. All offer higher standards of workmanship, comfort, refinement, and pricing than other SUVs.

Our Best Buys are Acura MDX and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both are extremely capable on-road and offer roomy interiors that feature quality workmanship and materials. MDX gets slightly better fuel economy and is more reasonably priced. Land Cruiser offers a V8 engine, rugged body-on-frame chassis, and true off-road ability.

Though rugged and trucky, the Recommended Mercedes-Benz M-Class is spacious, offers a variety of model and engine choices, and numerous safety features. If you don't venture too far off-road, take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300. Recommended based on price, refinement, and luxury appointments.