Acceleration

SE	Class Average
5	6

Adequate overall, aided by a smooth and responsive automatic transmission. Land Rover claims 8.4 seconds 0-60 mph, but it doesn't feel that quick. LR2 lacks solid midrange punch and struggles a bit up steep grades.

Fuel Economy

SE	Class Average
5	4.5

In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 20.2 mpg. Land Rover recommends premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

SE	Class Average
6	5.5

Few compact SUVs ride better overall. LR2's soft suspension with long wheel travel absorbs big ruts and dips but allows mild pitching. SE's 18-inch tires can cause minor thump and jiggle on sharp bumps and rippled freeways. The stout-feeling structure compensates. We have not yet tested an HSE, which has 19-inch tires.

Steering/Handling/Braking

SE	Class Average
6	6.3

Stable and well-planted on-road feel, though LR2's tall body leans more than we like in fast turns, and the steering is a tad sloppy and slow. One test model's brakes felt touchy at times. The Terrain Response system and generous ground clearance provided sure passage on tricky off-road driving courses despite the fact that this vehicle doesn't have low-range gearing.

Quietness

SE	Class Average
6	6.3

This engine is a bit loud at full throttle but sounds nice and is unobtrusive otherwise. Wind rush is moderate at highway speeds and some tire thrum is noticed on grooved or coarse pavement.

Controls

SE	Class Average
6	6

Most switchgear is simple, handy, and intuitive, though a few dashboard icons puzzle. The climate controls are low-set but easy enough to operate. The audio system is independent of the navigation system, a plus, but its display is tough to read. The gauges are large and legible. The navigation system lacks voice activation but is pretty easy to program and its screen is big.

Details

SE	Class Average
7	6.5

The LR2's cabin takes a cue from more expensive Range Rovers by offering high-quality wood and leather trim, solid-feeling plastics, and a blocky design imparting an upscale but sporty feel. LR2 comes with a two sunroofs, but Land Rover provides only perforated sunshades, which don't do a great job of keeping out heat and bright rays.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

SE	Class Average
6	6.8

Large folks might find it slightly cozy, but there's adult-size legroom and headroom on supportive, chair-height seats. Step-in is a bit high, but manageable. The driver gets fine outward visibility, though the thin heating wires embedded in the optional heated windshield take some getting used to.

Room/Comfort (rear)

SE	Class Average
5	5.3

Like other compact-class SUVs, LR2 isn't wide enough for three adults to sit comfortably in back, but two have good headroom and shoulder space, plus decent knee and leg space unless the front seats are moved well rearward. Some of our testers found the bench seat nothing special, but others found it firm and supportive. Rear entry and exit are a bit tight due to LR2's high-rider stance and smallish door openings.

Cargo Room

SE	Class Average
8	8

Load volume isn't generous for a compact SUV, but what's there is usefully shaped and easily accessed. The split rear seat double-folds to increase space and form a flat cargo deck. Good cabin storage includes large door pockets with bottle holders.

Value within Class

SE	Class Average
6	5.8

The LR2 mainly targets the Acura RDX and Infiniti EX35 in price and market position. It's somewhat slower and a bit less agile than those rivals but trumps them and most others in ride quality and off-road ability. Basically, Land Rover shrinks what's best about its larger, costlier LR3 model into a more sensibly sized and remarkably refined new package.

Total Score

SE	Class Average
66	67

Scores for all Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		61
Average Score		67
High Score		73