Motor Trend drives Land Rover LRX Concept

Land Rover's announcement that it plans to move forward on a production version of the stylish LRX concept -- and badge it as a Range Rover -- following a $37 million development grant from the UK government is significant news.

Even more significant, however, is the revelation from Land Rover North America sales and marketing chief Chris Marchand that "for the vehicle to be successful, there will need to be a five door [version]."

The beautifully detailed and artfully proportioned LRX, designed under the direction of former Lincoln design chief Gerry McGovern, is a sporty three door. McGovern insists the LRX, which is based on the Land Rover LR2 platform, could be turned into a production vehicle with relatively few cosmetic changes. The three door version would like be the entry-level model, while the five door would compete with Mercedes-Benz GLK, Audi Q5, and BMW X3.

Giving Range Rover a competitor in the booming small luxury SUV category is the key reason for the badge change. It also means the Land Rover LR2 will continue as the company's entry-level vehicle here in the United States.


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