The LR3's 4.4-litre V8 feels smooth and responsive in any situation. It's a pretty sophisticated unit by the way, derived from the Jaguar

In order to make it off-road capable, Land Rover sealed the new 300-hp 4.4-litre V8 from dust and water, and revised its air intakes to allow deep river wading. (Photo: Catherine Lemieux, Land Rover Canada)

4.2-litre but pumped up in displacement to benefit torque and therefore acceleration in its heavier SUVs application. It doles out 83 additional horsepower over the outgoing overhead valve, 2-valve per cylinder lump fitted into Discoverys, now making 300-horsepower. Its 315 lb-ft of torque rating beats the old engine by 15 lb-ft, but it needs to rev to 4,000 rpm compared to the outgoing model's 2,800 rpm in order to find that extra grunt. I think what will be more important to LR3 buyers, however, is the new engine's improved fuel economy and expected better reliability. Jaguar enjoys excellent third

While the vehicle we used for bushwhacking was merely an SE version, it was nicely equipped with most luxury features expected in this class. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

party reliability ratings, unlike Land Rover, so the new LR3 should benefit from dipping into Ford's Premier Auto Group (PAG) parts bin. In order to make it off-road capable, Land Rover sealed it from dust and water, and revised its air intakes to allow deep river wading.

While the vehicle we used for bushwhacking was merely an SE version, it was nicely equipped with most luxury features expected in this class. In case you want something featuring more, a touch-screen, voice-activated navigation system can be included in the fully loaded HSE version, which also features a 600-watt audio system, 19-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlamps and memory seats.