The Discovery LR3 is a fantastic budget-friendly vehicle for travel with recent adventure-ready offerings including this 2005 HSE w/ HD package, 2006 HSE, and 2008 HSE. It’s a proven platform that cut its teeth in events such as the 2006 G4 Challenge yet remains an underappreciated value. Cue today’s 2005 Land Rover LR3 SE (226,000), which boasts the desirable factory HD package, aftermarket modifications, and is topped with an Autohome Columbus rooftop tent. This full-service history vehicle is offered at just $8,500, which is a fraction of the cost of the much-lauded Defender, despite being more refined and incorporating many of the same rugged attributes. Automotive expert and Expedition Portal contributor Chris Cordes states, “Unfortunately, under the pressure of consumer demand for high-end luxury vehicles, Land Rover has moved away from its original simplistic designs and been pushed to incorporate an ever-increasing amount of technology into their vehicles. Many people have the impression that Land Rover has lost its spirit, but I assure you it is alive and well in vehicles such as the LR3.” If you’d like a better idea of how this platform performs in the backcountry, then check out the adventures of Onasled Overland, T3 Time 2 Drive, and TFL Classics.
From the Seller:
“Well loved and used 2005 LR3. I’m the second owner, and it’s been a Bay Area car for its entire life. Bought new from Stevens Creek Land Rover and was dealership serviced for 125,000 miles. I’ve owned it since 2018, and it has been the best vehicle I’ve ever owned. All of the common LR3 issues have been addressed: sunroof drains, air suspension compressor, transmission pan cover, coolant reservoir leak, and probably a handful of other things that I’ve forgotten. I’ve used but not abused it off-road. The pinstriping is there, as well as the oxidation and a dent in the rear quarter panel. Don’t have to worry about babying it; it’s pre-scratched. Go have fun! All service records since new available. Clean California title in hand. Smogged—no issues. Lots of recent maintenance.”
2005 Land Rover LR3 SE w/ HD Package
The LR3 is fitted with a V8 motor that delivers 300 horsepower, 315 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 14 mpg. A powerful engine is matched with impressive capability thanks to 4WD, high and low range, center locking and rear differentials, skid plates, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, hill descent control, and intelligent terrain response. Inside is a luxurious interior with driver comforts that include:
- Air-conditioning
- Cruise control
- Heated and powered leather seats
- Center console with cupholders
- Cold weather package
Distinguishing Features
- Traxide Tronics dual battery system
- Indel fridge
- Autohome Columbus rooftop tent
- Rear drawer and sleeping platform
- Falken Wildpeak A/T tires
- Rhino OX Off Road hitch
This 2005 Land Rover LR3 SE with the HD Package is listed for $8,500 and is currently located in Santa Cruz, California. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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