Charleston’s Car: The 2016 LR4

Charleston’s Car: The 2016 LR4

By Megan Busch

I’m not a girl who knows a ton about cars. I’ve driven Jeeps all my life (as has my mother), and I really haven’t veered off that track—ever. So, I’ve teamed up with the group at Baker Motor Company to try new things, namely cars outside my norm. A few times each month, I’ll be driving one of Baker’s cars and letting you know what I think. This isn’t going to be a series of Car and Driver or Motor Trend reviews. It’s just a girl sharing her honest opinion about some nifty vehicles.

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Aside from the Evoque, which isn’t a classic Land Rover, I haven’t stepped inside one of the iconic, boxy, British SUVs, so driving the LR4 was a real treat for me (honestly, it reminded me of a Wrangler, only more luxurious). The LR4 showcased many of the same features found in the fanciest of cars—from the smooth leather seats like the Jaguar F-PACE and the integrated infotainment system like the INFINITI QX60. However, like Charlestonians, the luxurious LR4 is always ready for a good time in the great outdoors.

All the Buttons, All the Features

One of the first things you’ll notice when you sit in the LR4 is the plethora of buttons, all controlling some aspect of the vehicle. Do you know what a lot of buttons means? Lots of technological features and upgrades. The center console offers control of the infotainment system, InControl, which offers a world of options right at your fingertips. From a Spotify app and BlueTooth connectivity to climate control and driver settings, the InControl system makes road trips infinitely more comfortable and enjoyable. Luxury in the LR4, however, did not stop at the Meridian speakers and the sleek display. It’s found, too, in the little additions that make the ride safe and comfortable. For example, heated seats are excellent for Charleston fall mornings and parking aids help you slide into a parallel parking spot without hitting the curb or surrounding cars.

Ready for the Charleston Roads

The LR4, though, is not merely technology and luxury wrapped in a pretty metal package. It’s rugged and ready for an adventure. With high and low transmission options, adjustable suspension height, and five different terrain settings, the car is prepped for any terrain it encounters. What’s appropriate for Charleston? The sand setting, of course. You don’t even have to worry about getting stuck when parking in a sandlot on Folly. The sand terrain setting makes traversing soft, dry sand safe and simple. One of my favorite features to test in the LR4 was the flood driving capabilities. Our Social Media Director, Julia, and I drove the LR4 through some fairly deep flood zones downtown following Hurricane Matthew. We found that the Land Rover traversed the giant puddles with ease. The LR4 has a wading depth of 27.6 inches, which allowed us to drive downtown at high tide after the storm without worry. The double sunroof let in a ridiculous amount of Lowcountry sunlight, and really, what’s better on an October Charleston day?

Business Savvy

Although I didn’t learn this while driving, when I returned to the dealership, the team at Baker let me know that Land Rovers are actually awesome business cars. I usually think of Sprinter Vans when it comes to a business needing fleet vehicles, but Land Rover has several neat incentives. First, there’s a tax cut for businesses purchasing Land Rovers for the workplace. Because the vehicles weigh more than 6,000 pounds, they qualify for an accelerated tax depreciation schedule. Now, don’t ask me all the details about this financial jargon, because I don’t know a lot about taxes, but I do know that these breaks can save money in the long run. Land Rover also developed a corporate fleet program (similar to Mercedes-Benz’s fleet incentives) to make owning multiple Land Rovers more affordable.

Drawing Conclusions

The LR4 seems to combine the best of both worlds. It incorporates much of the same interior and technological indulgences as a Jaguar, but it has the rugged feel of a Jeep (which we all know that I love). I think, if you’re in the market for a Wrangler Unlimited, it’d be worth the time to check out the LR4 as well in your shopping, especially if you’re seeking to upgrades your daily commute. The two cars have a similar feel, but the luxury brand brings a higher wow factor and a heightened performance level.

About this 2016 Land Rover LR4 HSE

3.0L V6 Engine

Automatic Transmission

Fuji White Exterior

Ebony Interior

Black Design Package

Heavy-Duty Package

Tow Package

Meridian Surround Sound Premium Audio Upgrade

Vision Assist Package

Heated Rear and Front Seats

Price: $68,759

Test drive the 2016 Land Rover LR4 at Baker Motor Company in West Ashley.