I am considering buying a used 2007 or 2008 LR3. We have a large family so we need the passenger space that it offers.

Primarily, it would be used as an in-town vehicle. However, we are considering getting a boat - probably in the 20-22 ft range. Most of our towing would be 100-200 miles, with a possible trip over a mountain pass (on a 4 lane interstate).

Any comments/recommendations on whether this sounds doable?

 

I don't know much about the LR3's. I would suggest that you give an approxamte amount of weight that the boat will be.. Length is really just more of a PITA when it is towing. EX I have a 25 ft sail boat that only wights 2300 lbs when unloaded...

 

I would guess around 4500-5000 lbs dry. Something like a Searay 220. I just want to make sure the wheelbase isn't too short for a boat that long.

 

I tow different boats (14 - 28 ') with short and long wheel base pickups, Suburban, etc. Big boat issues are weight, tongue weight, brakes, brakes, and did I mention brakes? If electric you'll need a controller. If surge, the ones I have include a 12 volt solenoid valve that releases brake pressure when backing up hill (wire off the back up lights). Short wheelbase will make backing and turn a breeze. 4WD makes slippery ramps easy to negotiate.

Don't do like my foolish young helpers and back boat in until water is up to the rear wheels - oh they thought wheel well, so it was actaully the back passenger door...

As far as freeway speed, nope, too short, just keep it 50 mph or less. And stay within the GVW limits all the way.

 

Hahaha you all are crazy, an LR3 will tow the $hit out of a boat that size, end of story! I've been towing my 20' yamaha twin jet boat with my 12 year old ~160k mile Discovery II all season long, once was a 1000 mile round-trip to myrtle beach!

The LR3 has nearly double the HP, 2 more gears, and a far more sophisticated frame/suspension/electronic stability system. Not to mention everything from the u joints to the steering bushings are gonna be stronger/newer. You'll love it!

..at least that's why I just sold my car to get the LR3 - selling the boat and the DII to get a newer boat in the spring