2012 Land Rover LR4 HSE

The LR4 is Land Rover's full-size seven-seat SUV, the one you cross-shop with a Toyota Sequoia or a Mercedes GL if you actually plan to leave the pavement. It drives like a big, confident truck, with a commanding view over traffic and a ride that soaks up rough roads without complaint. Body roll is noticeable in corners, but that's the trade for the long wheel travel that makes it so capable off-road. The cabin feels properly upscale with soft leather and wood, and the third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter trips. The HSE comes with leather upholstery, a power tailgate, and a premium sound system that the base Laredo doesn't offer. Its 5.0L V8 makes 375 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, which moves the big SUV with authority but returns 14 mpg combined. The HSE can be optioned with a rear-seat entertainment system, a feature the cheaper trim skips.