Most distinctive is the stepped roof line, a recognized brand element preserved from the previous-generation Discovery, re-named the LR3 when it was redesigned for 2005. The stepped roof offers a distinct visual profile, but also creates headroom for rear-seat passengers while compensating for the high floor. The high floor is required to clear the center differential and to give the LR3 sufficient ground clearance to cross a savannah.

Another example of distinctive Land Rover design is the asymmetric tailgate, which operates as an easy-open clamshell for the top half, and a standard tailgate for the bottom half. The result is exceptional ease of access, and reduced load lift height, while preserving a sheltered fold-out tailgate surface for true tailgating at a campsite or stadium parking lot.

Also noticeable is a functional air intake on the right of the engine bay; it's only on one side because that was all that was needed. The 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels fitted to the V6 SE and V8 SE are new designs for 2007.

The LR3 is considerably larger than the previous Discovery. The LR3's wheelbase of 113.6 inches is as long as a Ford Explorer's. That not only gives LR3 ample room for three-row seating, but better highway stability, particularly when towing.