[jetblk328i]

I'm ready to buy a certified SUV for the wifey+winter days.

I have narrowed it down to 2008/09 LR2, loaded. or a new Audi Q5(spending a lot more, wifey prefers this one, but likes the LR2's much better visibility).

Certainly i would like to purchase the LR2 as it is cheaper and seems more "manly" haha. I like its boxy styling and its Terrain Response.

However, I, like probably all of you, have heard of the numerous quality issues Land Rover has had. I heard that the newer ones are better, and the LR2 especially, has pretty decent quality and craftsmanship(could be false).

So, what would you do?

1. LR2, save the extra money in case of repairs(about 9K btw...)

2. Q5, better car, worth the extra money.

A few things to consider:

1. I dont need on road handling excellence(wife primary driver).
2. I NEED great traction in snow.
3. Lowest insurance cost please.
4. Cheaper to maintain @ dealership
5. Don't need many electro-techno gadgets(as wife prolly won't operate).

Thanks!

[Memphis1]

if you really want the LR2, just buy the Ford Escape/Volvo XC60... same s**t. if you don't want headaches get the VW Tiguan/audi Q5, again same s**t.
the headaches are relative though

[jetblk328i]

hmm i was under the assumption the LR2 was based off of the volvo s80, not escape and the Q5 off the A4 not tiguan.

But i may be mistaken. Thoughts?

[abisson]

LR2 is based on that plateform.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_EUCD_platform

I'ved a Freelander (LR1 if you want) and I liked its sportiness and terrain abilities. Ya, reliability was a HUGE issue, but things change. The LR2 is much better. A friend of mine has one and he likes it a lot. But like everything, if you take care of your shit, it should be fine. I have a VW, and everybody knows that VW is not known for its reliability, but so far so good.

My oncle has a Q5. He likes it too, but I do think its a bit small. Also, if you don't get the S Line model, I think it does not look as good as the LR2.

Anyways.. lol. Both are good choices imo.

[135iUSN]

owned LR2 for a bit - 2008 with all packages - great ride - overall and no issues in the year I had her... like you sort of leaning on a cuv and LR2 would be a nice one or the list..

[Raja Ventureshield]

get the MDX. I like the Acura, think it's HOTTTTTTTTTT.

[jetblk328i]

MDX is too big. Son is going to college so most of the time this year, at most, there will be 2 people in the car. I also dont have lots of cargo to haul or stuff to pull.

[kav]

I've had an 2008 LR2 for 2 years now and it has been great. One problem with ECU which was quickly fixed by dealer with free loaner for the day. Otherwise it has been a great car. Amazing abilities in snow, great visibility and not too big. If you can get it with the OE roof rack. It makes the car look so much better..

[ChrisV]

http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=4332044

Basically, the LR2s have been winning awards and the relaibility has ben stellar. And they have much better features than the Ford/Volvo versions.