2015 Land Rover LR2

08/21/2014

Land Rover

The Land Rover LR2 will offer two special Value Edition packages and a special-value audio upgrade. Unique in the compact luxury SUV segment, the LR2 offers the brand's renowned off-road capability in a vehicle that provides outstanding on-road ride comfort and agility. The combination of full-time intelligent four-wheel drive and the renowned Land Rover Terrain Response(R)control system3 gives the LR2 the ability to take trails unsuitable for some luxury crossovers.

The Value Edition Black Pack and Silver Pack options each add a distinct design theme to the Land Rover LR2, along with the added value of the HDD Navigation system2 and a 19-inch wheel upgrade. The Black Pack's 10-spoke alloy wheels are painted black, of course, complemented by gloss black exterior trim and badges. Inside, the Grand Black Lacquer trim and steering wheel face add a touch of sporty elegance seen on Range Rover Black Pack models.

The Silver Pack gives the LR2 a shot of design adrenaline with the Exterior Design Package, plus 19-inch 7-split-spoke alloy wheels with a Sparkle finish and bright exhaust tailpipe finishers. Silver Element interior trim brings some of the "sparkle" inside.

Standard amenities in all LR2 models include grained leather seating with an eight-way power driver's seat and six-way power front passenger seat, along with a dual-panel panoramic sunroof.

POWERTRAIN

The Land Rover LR2 deftly blends performance and efficiency. Its 2-liter direct-injection turbocharged engine delivers 240hp and 250 lb.-ft. of torque, the latter at low engine speed. A HaldexTM rear axle coupling provides intelligent full-time four-wheel drive. The powertrain components and systems are protected from water intrusion, providing the vehicle with a 19.7-inch (500 mm) water-wading depth3.

Intelligent Power System Management (IPSM), which features Smart Regenerative Charging, allows the alternator to charge the battery only when the vehicle is decelerating, recovering kinetic energy rather than consuming energy during engine operation.

The engine is teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission engineered with advanced neutral logic control to reduce internal drag when the LR2 is idling. The transmission also features a remote breather, routed above the vehicle's water wading depth. In sport mode, the transmission is programmed to hold low gears longer and to downshift more readily, to assist acceleration. CommandShift(R) allows manual sequential gearshifts.

INTERIOR AND ELECTRONICS

The 2015 Land Rover LR2 and LR2 HSE models come with grained leather appointed seats as standard, while the LR2 HSE LUX gets an upgraded Windsor leather covered seat with double contrast stitching. The standard dual-panel panoramic sunroof provides a bright and airy feel in the cabin; the front section opens and slides over the second-row glass roof panel. With Keyless Start, the engine starts at the touch of a button as long as the key is inside the car.

The driver can control the standard Meridian(TM) audio system and the optional satellite navigation system through the standard 7-inch color touch-screen2. The screen provides fast scrolling on the main navigation screen (when equipped) and a QWERTY keyboard for phonebook searching.2

A 5-inch screen between the main dials within the instrument cluster displays primary vehicle-related information, such as temperature and fuel levels, gear position and Terrain Response(R) mode. Steering wheel toggle switches operate clear drop-down menus and vehicle setup details.

The LR2 HSE is equipped with a rear view camera, which shows the view from the back of the vehicle on the infotainment screen along with dynamic lines representing the boundaries of the vehicle and the predicted path as the vehicle reverses3. The system also incorporates 'Hitch Assist,' a graphic superimposed on the camera showing the position of the tow ball3.

The available hard disc drive navigation system comes with such features as ECO Route planning, Dynamic Zoom, Visual Lane guidance, POI (Point of Interest) management and repeat TMC traffic guidance2. A 'Say What You See' voice activation system will prompt the driver visually with the commands he or she needs to speak in order to control functions of the audio, optional satellite navigation, and phone systems2. The prompts are displayed in an easy-to-follow 'step by step' format on the screen.

Meridian(TM) Sound Systems

Two Meridian(TM) audio systems are available on the 2015 LR2. Standard in the LR2 and LR2 HSE, a 380W system plays through an 11-speaker system that delivers exceptional stereo sound. Included with the HSE LUX and also available as a standalone option for the others, the 825-Watt surround sound 17-speaker system with Trifield(TM) technology provides a natural, enveloping sound experience for all occupants. Both Meridian(TM) systems are equipped with subwoofers for a deep, bass sound and an Audyssey MultEQ audio tuning system. For 2015, the standalone option now includes HD Radio and SiriusXM(R) Satellite Radio.

Both systems also provide a 3.5mm auxiliary input jack for music players and Bluetooth(R) audio streaming from any supporting devices2.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

The LR2 combines agile and refined on-road behavior with legendary Land Rover off-road ability, thanks in large part to its four-wheel independent suspension. The responsive rack-and-pinion steering is direct and fluid, with just 2.6 turns lock-to-lock. The steering rack is rigidly mounted to the front sub-frame to improve lateral stiffness, and the steering column is adjustable for reach and tilt.

Off-road capability for the Land Rover LR2 starts with 8.26-inch (210 mm) minimum of ground clearance that can overcome rocky, sandy, rutted or muddy terrain. The LR2 is rated to tow a 3,500-lb. (1,585 kg) braked trailer. The standard 18-inch alloy wheels are fitted with all-terrain tires.

INTELLIGENT FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE

The intelligent full-time all-wheel drive system was developed in conjunction with HaldexTM, whose acclaimed center-coupling technology continuously alters the front-rear torque split through an electronically controlled, hydraulically operated multi-plate wet clutch. The coupling gives the proactive engagement benefits of all-wheel drive and the efficiency and fuel economy of an on-demand system.

A high-pressure pre-charge pump pressurizes the hydraulics in the center coupling as soon as the engine is started, providing four-wheel drive from rest to reduce wheelspin from standing starts. On the move, the front-rear torque split adapts continuously to suit changing conditions. The system engages quickly when traction loss is detected and can disengage quickly to optimize the response of the stability control systems.

Only a small amount of torque is fed to the rear wheels under normal conditions, such as on a straight paved road, but in low traction or off-road situations, almost all of the engine torque can instantaneously be delivered to the rear wheels, if required. The HaldexTM unit can achieve full torque transmission in just 150 milliseconds, engaging within 15 degrees of wheel-slip rotation.

TERRAIN RESPONSE(R) AND OFF-ROAD DRIVING SYSTEMS

The Terrain Response(R) system3 is one of the core Land Rover technologies that gives the LR2 its outstanding range of capabilities. It optimizes drivability and traction by adapting the responses of the vehicle's engine, transmission, center coupling and chassis systems to match the demands of the terrain.

Terrain Response(R) is a fully integrated system that manages:

Engine Management

Transmission Control

Electronic Traction Control and Anti-lock Brakes: These slip and braking control systems are all adjusted and tuned by Terrain Response to offer optimum grip, braking power and safety on the chosen terrain

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC): DSC is designed to stop torque to a wheel after loss of traction, but in some off-road situations torque feed is still desirable, even when traction is compromised. Terrain Response(R) automatically adjusts DSC so that appropriate torque is maintained

Center Coupling

The driver can choose from four Terrain Response(R) settings via buttons on the center console:

General Driving: provides a broad span of ability suitable for most on-road driving

Grass/Gravel/Snow: for slippery conditions, on-road or off-road

Mud and Ruts

Sand

Terrain Response(R) changes the setting of the HaldexTM coupling to optimize four-wheel drive in difficult conditions. Each Terrain Response(R) program applies different transmission shift mappings; the Transmission Control Module also manages torque converter lock-up, which has different requirements depending on the selected Terrain Response(R)mode3.

Hill Descent Control (HDC(R)) also plays major role in off-road driving3. Using the anti-lock brake system, HDC(R) automatically restricts speed downhill and improves driver control on slippery descents. HDC(R) is automatically engaged on appropriate Terrain Response(R) programs, with the downhill speed rate varying according to which surface is selected.

Another innovation on Land Rover LR2 is the brand's patented Gradient Release Control system3. Linked to HDC(R), it ensures that when releasing the brakes on extremely steep hills, brake-line pressure is released progressively when the driver's foot is moved from the pedal, helping the driver maintain control.

The LR2 uses large vented four-wheel disc brakes. The 12.5-inch (316 mm) front discs are 'reverse vented,' so they draw cool air into the disc over the central bell, which is then vented out from the rim of the disc. This approach improves thermal stability under severe braking.

Rear brake discs are also substantial - 12-inch (302 mm) in diameter - and include an Electric Parking Brake that adjusts brake force according to the slope the vehicle is parked on. The system takes into account whether the brakes are hot or cold when the LR2 has been parked. If hot, the system 'wakes up' periodically to ensure clamping force is not lost as the brakes cool down. The electric parking brake may still be used as an emergency brake, automatically selecting the most stable braking method by employing skid prevention techniques. An additional safety feature prevents the brake from being released unless the drivers' seat is occupied.

The braking system also includes Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), the latter boosting pedal pressure when full braking is required. Corner Brake Control (CBC) enhances rear-end stability when braking in corners and also helps to regulate the Hill Descent Control, Electronic Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems3.

Roll Stability Control uses gyroscopic sensing to compare the rate of change of body roll angle with the steered course3. If necessary, incremental brake force is applied to specific wheels to reduce the chances of a rollover.

DESIGN

In the Land Rover tradition, functionality is a fundamental design driver for the LR2. The narrow

A-pillars help provide excellent all-round visibility. The pronounced hood edges help the driver place the vehicle accurately on the road or trail. The wheel stance and wide track help deliver agile handling and surefooted grip. The short front and rear overhangs and high underbody are essential for off-road performance, maximizing approach and departure angles. Both front and rear light systems utilize LED technology.

The LR2 HSE grille insert bars, fender vent and rear finisher strip have a light gloss silver finish, with the grille surround finished in gloss black. Eighteen-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels are standard, and 19-inch wheels are available. The 2015 Value Edition Black Pack and Silver Pack options include 19-inch wheels.

BODY STRUCTURE

The LR2 uses unibody construction, with ultra-high-strength steel used extensively in the door beams and for various strengthening reinforcements. DP600 dual-phase steel - which requires special manufacturing techniques because of its strength - is used for the A-pillars, lower sills, roof supports, front side members and dash. Even the hood-locking platform has been designed to help boost structural integrity, ensuring good load transfer from one front crash rail to the other.

The LR2 uses 100 percent double-sided zinc-coated steel panels as part of the comprehensive anti-corrosion and paint treatment. Vulnerable areas of the vehicle, including the sills and lower doors, are coated in a tough thermoplastic cladding. A double bulkhead in the engine bay improves powertrain isolation and provides a clean area for components such as the ABS modulator, brake booster and windshield wiper system. A strong polymer undertray protects the radiator, and a structural steel undertray protects the engine.

SAFETY

Responsive handling, large four-wheel disc brakes and four-wheel drive system help the driver avoid hazards. Another key to safety is maintaining excellent visibility under all conditions. The high "command view" seating position provides visibility over traffic and a clear view of the road3.

The generous glass area offers excellent all-around views, and large door mirrors offer a wide field of view. Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights, both of which work via infrared sensor technology, are standard on all models. An electrically heated front windshield and heated washer jets are available to maintain visibility in low temperature conditions.

Passive safety starts with the strong unibody and its passenger cell. Front and rear crumple zones are designed to help absorb as much energy as possible during an impact. Side-impact protection is further supported by high-strength steel door beams, the strong and deep door sills and the raised seat position.

All LR2 models feature seven airbags including front-seat side airbags and full-length curtain airbags6. An inflatable knee bolster helps protect the driver against leg injury.

Pedestrian safety is also a high priority, with 2.76-3.54-inch (70mm-90mm) of clearance between the upper hood and under-hood components in the critical zones.

1 Price shown is MSRP. Excludes $995 destination and delivery fee. Excludes, tax, title, licence, retailer fees and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicles availability may vary. See your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for details.

2 Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control. Do not operate, adjust or view the navigation or multimedia systems under conditions that will affect your safety or the safety of others. Only use devices with voice commands when it is safe to do so.

3 These features are not a substitute for driving safely with due care and attention and will not function under all circumstances, speeds, weather and road conditions, etc. Driver should not assume that these features will correct errors of judgment in driving. Please consult owner's manual or your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for more details.

4 EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.

5Always obey local speed limits.

6Please remember that the safety belts in a vehicle constitute the primary protection system for driver and passengers in collisions. Airbags are not designed to deploy in all collisions. The airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is a supplement to the safety belts and is designed to work as a system with the safety belts. Although airbags provide additional protection, airbags without safety belts do not provide optimal protection in a crash. Always wear your safety belts. Children younger than 13 years old should always be properly restrained in a back seat, away from airbags. Never place an infant seat in the front seat.

2015 Land Rover LR2 Technical Data

Engine Type

Transverse, in-line 4-cylinder, 16-valve turbocharged, direct fuel injection

Displacement cc

1999

Bore/stroke (in.)

3.44 x 3.27

Compression Ratio

10:1

Horsepower

240 @ 5500rpm

Torque (lb.-ft.)

250 @ 1750rpm

Fuel Economy: EPA Estimated City/Highway (Combined) MPG4

17 / 24 (20)

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.5 US gallons

Transmission

Aisin AWF21 6-Speed automatic

Four Wheel-Drive system

Full time 4 wheel drive with HaldexTM rear axle differential and Terrain Response(R) control system

0-60 mph5

8.2 sec. (0-100 kph: 8.8 sec.)

Top Speed mph (kph)5

124 (200)

Front Suspension

MacPherson strut with lower control arm and anti-roll bar

Front Axle Ground Clearance

8.3 in. maximum

Rear Suspension

Strut assembly with lateral and longitudinal links and anti-roll bar

Rear Axle Ground Clearance

10.5 in. maximum

Brakes

Ventilated front disc - 12.4 in; Ventilated rear disc - 12 in.

Steering

Hydraulic power assisted rack and pinion

Turning Circle

37 ft.

Wheelbase

104.7 in.

Height

68.5 in.

Width

86.5 in.

Length

177 in.

Track

Front 63 in. Rear 64.5 in.

Approach angle

31 degrees

Departure angle

34degrees

Ramp break over angle

23 degrees

Maximum water wading depth

19.7 in.

Base curb weight

4,079 lbs.

Headroom (maximum)

40.2 in.

Legroom

Front 41.9 in., Rear 36.4 in.

Shoulder Room

Front 57.6 in., Rear 57.3 in.

Cargo Space

Rear seats up: 26.7 cu. ft., Rear seats folded 58.9 cu. ft.

*Manufacturer's figures. Correct at time of publication.