The most visible update to the exterior of the model comes with the redesign of the headlights and taillights. They use the latest Xenon and LED technology to present a more modern look. Three new colors have also been added, including: Aintree Green, Havana and Mauritius Blue.
The interior of previous LR2's was often criticized for feeling a bit too cheap, the initial interior shots of the updated model show that several things have indeed been improved. Styling ques were definitely taken from the Range Rover Evoque, and we can only hope that the cheap feeling buttons and nobs of the prior year LR2 have been replaced with units similar to what the Evoque received. The model also receives a 7-inch touch screen regardless of if the vehicle is equipped with navigation.
If you've ever test driven, or currently own an LR2, you'll be happy to know that the updated model looses the funky key docking system that used to start the vehicle. A more modern passive start system has been included, if the key is inside the vehicle, a simple press of a button will start it.
The new model gains an updated Haldex Four Wheel Drive System which promises to improve on, and off-road traction, with the system being able to switch to 4WD within 15 degrees of wheel-slip rotation. They've also added another feature to the Hill Decent Control system called Gradient Release Control, which ensures that when you're on an extremely steep hill, the vehicle will automatically hold some pressure in the brake lines, and gradually release it as the driver's foot is removed from the pedal. This will prevent the vehicle from rushing forward too quickly, which normally would present issues for the 'HDC' system to properly work.
The 2013 Land Rover LR2 at a glance:
- Completely updated for the 2013 model year, the Land Rover LR2 joins the Range Rover Evoque to provide compelling entries in the premium compact SUV market
- New 240 hp 2-liter turbocharged engine replaces the 3.2 liter inline six, offering increased horsepower, torque, and efficiency
- New exterior design elements give a sportier and more purposeful look
- Interior technologies from the Range Rover Evoque are now available in the Land Rover LR2
- New dashboard layout including a new center console
- New colors for exterior paint and interior trim
- New standard 7-inch color touch-screen
- Available 825W Meridian surround sound system with 17-speakers for a concert-like experience
- New 'Say What You See' (optional) prompted voice command system offers a screen guided and voice prompted voice interface2
- Available Rear View Camera with 'Hitch Assist'
