Land Rover LR2: Preview Ford called 2005 the Year of the Car. As far as we know, such titles are lacking for the 2006 and 2007 model years, so we’re suggesting they be unofficially labeled the Years of the Small-to-Midsize SUV. The market is littered with them: recent introductions include the Toyota RAV4, RDX, Lexus RX 350, Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Saturn Vue Green Line, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Honda CR-V, Subaru B9 Tribeca, and others.

The latest addition to the group is the 2007, Land Rover LR2, a redesigned and renamed replacement for the Freelander. The LR2 trades the Freelander’s clunky design and underpowered engine for fresh new bodywork that more closely resembles the larger LR3 and Range Rover models and a 230-horsepower 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine. Two-door models have been scrapped, leaving a four-door LR2 as the only choice. Inside are features befitting a premium vehicle, such as a touch-screen navigation system and an upgraded sound system. And, in traditional Land Rover fashion, the LR2 comes with what the company claims is a remarkably capable all-wheel-drive system bolstered by Roll Stability Control, Terrain Response, and hill descent technology called Gradient Release Control.

Pricing for the 2007 Land Rover LR2 has not been released, but given the numerous enhancements, chances are that the bare-bones model will sticker for more than 2006’s $27,495 base price (including a $665 destination charge).