Introduction
For 2013, Land Rover has updated its entry-level LR2 model with revised headlights and taillights, a more powerful and efficient engine, redesigned instrument panel, and a host of new interior technologies.
Exterior Features
The 2013 Land Rover LR2 base model arrives with new LED taillights, refinished grille, silver fender vents, rear window wiper, front and rear fog lights, rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Also standard are automatic headlights with washers, heated power-adjustable outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, fixed rear glass roof panel, and a front power tilt/slide moonroof.
In addition to those amenities, the LR2 HSE and HSE Lux offer HID headlights with LED accents, power-folding mirrors that tilt down when the transmission is shifted into reverse, and memory settings for the driver.
Interior Features
In its base form, the LR2 is nicely equipped with power front seats with 6-way adjustment for the driver and 4-way adjustment for the passenger, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, leather upholstery, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls. A 380-watt 11-speaker sound system is also included amongst the standard features, along with a USB port, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, updated gauge cluster, dash-mounted 7-inch touch-screen display, electronic parking brake, push-button start, voice-activated primary controls, and a new layout for the instrument panel.
For the 2013 LR2 HSE, Land Rover sweetens the deal with a universal garage door opener and a rearview camera with hitch assist, while the LR2 HSE Lux adds a broader variety of interior color selections, 825-watt 17-speaker surround-sound system, and power front seats with 8-way adjustment for the driver and 6-way adjustment for the passenger.
Optional Features
Some of the Land Rover LR2's stand-alone options include 19-inch alloy wheels, satellite and HD Radio service, and a navigation system that offers a zoom feature and eco routing. Buyers of the base, HSE or HSE Lux trim levels can also opt for a Cold Climate package comprised of a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and heated windshield washer nozzles.
Under the Hood
In lieu of its predecessor's 6-cylinder power plant, Land Rover equips the 2013 LR2 with a potent engine that debuted in the Range Rover Evoque. It's a direct-injection, 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that delivers 240 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque, output that's managed by a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual and sport modes. All LR2 models also feature standard full-time AWD and Land Rover's Terrain Response system offering general driving, grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, and sand settings (now operated with buttons instead of a dial). The company claims the 2013 LR2 can ford nearly 20 inches of water and tow up to 3,500 pounds.
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2013 Land Rover LR2 are 17/24/20 mpg (city/highway/combined).
Safety
The 2013 Land Rover LR2's standard safety components include 7 air bags, front active head restraints, cornering brake control, traction control, rear park-assist sensors, and 4-wheel anti-lock ventilated disc brakes featuring electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
As this preview is written, neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has rated the crashworthiness of the 2013 Land Rover LR2.
Technology
The 2013 LR2 features what Land Rover refers to as "Say What You See" voice activation, which prompts uses with common phrases displayed on the 7-inch touch screen.
