Land Rover dropped a trim level for its 2009 LR2, abandoning the base SE model and going with only the HSE. But there’s so much to like about the LR2 HSE – Land Rover’s signature off-road capabilities, smooth on-road handling, a refined cabin – the SE will hardly be missed. The ’09 LR2 comes with an inline six-cylinder (I6), 230-hp, 3.2-liter engine capable of 234 lb-ft of torque at 2,300 rpm. That torque is delivered as needed to the four standard 235/55AT tires by Permanent Intelligent All-Wheel Drive that begins working upon ignition. The I6 is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that can be changed – on the fly if needed - between Normal, Sport (holds gear longer), or Command Shift (manual shifting) modes. Maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. The LR2 takes premium unleaded and gets 15/22 mpg. Hardcore off-road enthusiasts might be disappointed by the lack of a low-speed transfer case, but unless you’re tackling major boulders, Land Rover’s Terrain Response system should handle all other off-road needs. The system can be set to General, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, or Sand. Plus, the LR2 has generous angles to help transition from flats to hills (29 ascent/32 descent), Hill Descent Control, and Gradient Release Control for further control on descents, and a 19.7-inch wading depth. The LR2’s cushy suspension, solid structure, Dynamic Stability Control, and Roll Stability Control all combine to provide a comfortable on-pavement ride. Reviewers tend to agree that the LR2 handles as smoothly as any SUV in its class and certainly feels more stable than Land Rover’s old Discovery. The front seats provide ample room even for larger adults. The steering wheel has a myriad of adjustment options, and the driver’s seat is 8-way adjustable, so finding a comfortable driving position should be easy. Three large adults might find a long trip in the back seat a bit cozy. The rear seats can fold completely flat to offer 58.9 cubic feet of cargo space, or they can fold in a 60/40 split. High-quality wood and leather trim, solid-plastic and eye-pleasing yet ergonomic control design give the LR2’s interior a luxurious feel that many have come to expect from Land Rover. Amenities include a nine-speaker Alpine audio system with a 6-CD changer, dual-climate control, and a push-button starter. The power-assisted, four-wheel ventilated disc brakes are just the start of the LR2’s safety features. There’s also the four-channel, all-terrain, antilock brake system, electronic brakeforce distribution, Emergency Brake Assist, and Cornering Brake Control. And if those brakes don’t keep you out of a collision, the LR2 has a seven-airbag Supplemental Restraint System, side-door impact beams in the front and rear, integrated head restraints in the front and rear, front crumple zones, and a collapsible steering column.