...and the three amigos! Heh heh. Seems like the cost of that cutting edge approach to integrating technology is the mess that it can create sometimes. As opposed to Japanese vehicles that are uber reliable but equally conservative in terms of the tech and design approach.

I know what I'd rather have. When I test drove the GX470 back in 2005 (while waiting for my pre-ordered LR3) I thought it was nice; had what I wanted...but was utterly BORING.

The vast majority of what I test drove were either crossovers or 4WD SUVs; that's what was out there. There were only a few actual "4x4s" which is what the LR3 is.

Example of each:

Crossover: BMW X5
4WD SUV: GMC Yukon (non Denali)
4x4: LR3, H3

Defining characteristics: crossovers are generally unibody and car-like with an AWD drivetrain. 4WD SUVs have 4WD but are not really built with off-roading in mind. Large overhangs, marginal ground clearance, scant articulation, who cares about the crawl ratio? and that sort of stuff. 4x4s, of course are designed with the purpose in mind. Crawl Ratios, ground clearance, wheel travel, approach/departure/breakover angles are all considered in the design.

Man...sorry to jack this thread, but it was kinda fun.

Back to power/battery $hit now.

 

Interesting. I've started mine in WAY cold temps and never had that. If we are away on a ski trip or something though, I also turn off the climate control and stereo before parking to make sure I have full battery available. Then promptly turn on the heated seats, climate and run back inside with my coffee!