For over five decades, the Land Rover Range Rover has set the standard for luxury SUVs, and the latest iteration, the 2023 Range Rover, raises the bar even higher. With its unparalleled refinement, extensive customer choice, and endless possibilities for personalization, the Range Rover continues to solidify its position as the epitome of elegance and functionality in the automotive world.
When compared to other luxury SUVs from renowned brands such as Mercedes, Lexus, BMW, Cadillac, GMC, Audi, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce, the New Range Rover stands out as a true icon. It combines serene comfort and composure with unmatched capability, delivering a driving experience that transcends expectations.
One of the standout features of the new Range Rover is its range of powertrain options. With a suite of efficient mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, Land Rover offers a variety of choices for eco-conscious drivers.
In fact, the Range Rover we had the opportunity to test showcased its electrified powertrain options. Our tester offered electrified performance through its new Extended-Range plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain and the latest mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology. These powertrain options provide a compelling balance of power, refinement, and assured driving dynamics. The P440e six-cylinder PHEV powertrain combines Land Rover's in-line 3.0-liter six-cylinder Ingenium gas powered engine with a 38.2kWh lithium-ion battery and a 105kW electric motor integrated with the transmission.
The combination of the six-cylinder Ingenium engine and the electric motor brings new levels of refinement to the luxury SUV, offering hushed, instantly available power. The P510e powertrain, featuring a 400PS Ingenium engine and a 105kW electric motor, delivers a combined maximum power output of 434 hp and 457 lb.-ft. of torque, enabling the Range Rover to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Notably, the new Range Rover's plug-in hybrids can drive at speeds of up to 140mph in EV mode, providing outstanding efficiency with CO2 emissions as low as 18g/km.
With its Extended-Range PHEV powertrains, the new Range Rover can be operated as a fully electric vehicle or as a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. The plug-in hybrids offer three driving modes: Hybrid Mode, EV Mode, and Save Mode. Hybrid Mode optimizes efficiency for every journey, utilizing predictive energy optimization and geo-fencing technology to prioritize electric driving in low-emission zones. EV Mode allows for silent zero tailpipe emission driving, while Save Mode preserves the battery charge for later use. These driving modes offer flexibility and ensure a smooth and refined driving experience.
The new Range Rover's plug-in hybrids provide exceptional range and performance. According to Range Rover UK customer data, customers will be able to complete 75 percent of their daily journeys in EV mode without the need for charging away from home. Furthermore, the Range Rover's PHEVs can achieve a full charge in under an hour with 50kW DC fast charging capability, making them one of the fastest charging plug-in hybrids available. We were able to charge at home using an adaptor for our 240 Volt Tesla charger and it took approximately 3 hours, to reach full charge.
The Range Rover's electrified powertrain also incorporates Brake Energy Regeneration, which harnesses energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration and braking, recharging the battery and enhancing overall efficiency.
Moreover, the Range Rover is always online and connected, allowing owners to monitor the charging status of the vehicle through Land Rover's Remote app. The remote Cabin Pre-Conditioning function enables customers to warm or cool the cabin before each trip, ensuring maximum comfort in all climates.
The electrified, sustainable luxury, and trademark performance of the Range Rover exemplify Land Rover's commitment to providing cutting-edge technology while prioritizing environmental responsibility. By offering electrified powertrains and innovative features, the new Range Rover aligns with the evolving automotive landscape and sets new standards for luxury SUVs.
Versatility is another key attribute of the new Range Rover. It is available in four, five, or seven-seat interiors, allowing customers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs. The option of Standard or Long Wheelbase body designs further enhances this flexibility, ensuring that the Range Rover is at home in any environment. Land Rover's new Modular Longitudinal Architecture, MLA-Flex, underpins the entire vehicle, providing unmatched capability, agile handling, and unmatched refinement.
In terms of design, the new Range Rover embodies breathtaking silhouette, aesthetic grace, and technological sophistication. Its exterior boasts three defining lines - the falling roofline, strong waistline, and rising sill line - which trace their origins back through the generations. These trademark features, along with a distinctive boat tail rear and practical split tailgate, create an elegant profile that exudes the Range Rover's incomparable presence. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the hidden waist finisher to the flush glazing and hidden-until-lit lighting. This attention to detail, combined with its sophisticated surfaces and aerodynamic efficiency, makes the new Range Rover the most aerodynamically efficient luxury SUV in the world.
Step inside the new Range Rover, and you'll be greeted by a luxurious interior that seamlessly blends modern technology, the finest materials, and wellbeing innovations. Land Rover has curated a wider choice of materials and finishes, including innovative textiles and tactile Ultrafabrics™, creating a sustainable and responsible interior environment. The Range Rover offers a calm sanctuary for all occupants, turning every journey into an experience to savor. Advanced speaker technology, in combination with the MLA-Flex body architecture, ensures a serene cabin experience, while the Meridian Signature Sound System delivers an immersive audio experience with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Active Noise Cancellation system takes cabin quietness to the next level, creating personal quiet zones for each occupant and enhancing the overall refinement of the vehicle. The new Range Rover also prioritizes wellbeing with its Cabin Air Purification Pro system, which significantly reduces odors, viruses, and allergens, ensuring a clean and healthy cabin environment for all occupants. Of course, our tester was well equipped with heated, cooling and massaging seats for both front and rear seats passengers. As an added touch, the center console doubles as a refrigerated cooler box for small beverages and snacks.
Land Rover's commitment to innovation extends to the new Range Rover's suspension and safety features. The vehicle features Dynamic Response Pro and pre-emptive suspension, which uses eHorizon Navigation data to read the road ahead and optimize the suspension for a perfect response. This intelligent technology, combined with Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist, ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even in challenging road conditions. The fully independent suspension, including Land Rover's first-ever five-link rear axle and advanced air springs, further enhances the luxurious ride quality and isolates the cabin from surface imperfections.
Additionally, the new Range Rover introduces Power Assisted Doors with integrated hazard detection and anti-pinch safety features. This innovative technology enhances the Soft Door Close capability, providing effortless refinement and sophistication. The power-assisted doors can be controlled via the Pivi Pro screen, offering elegant entry and exit in any situation, including off-road angles of up to 10 degrees. Advanced hazard detection ensures that the doors automatically pause until the area is clear, enhancing safety and convenience.
Range Rover also retains its hallmark feature: the two-piece split tailgate. This iconic design has been updated with new technologies, providing greater versatility and convenience for users.
When comparing the new Range Rover to other luxury SUVs in its class, it becomes evident that it excels in combining elegance, functionality, and cutting-edge technology. While competitors may offer their own unique features and characteristics, the Range Rover stands out as the original luxury SUV and continues to lead the way in providing an unmatched blend of comfort, capability, and refinement.
The Range Rover we tested impresses not only with its elegant design, refinement, and versatile capabilities but also with its electrified powertrain options and commitment to sustainability. The upcoming pure-electric model, along with the Extended-Range plug-in hybrid powertrains, showcases Land Rover's dedication to providing hushed, instant power while reducing emissions. With its range, performance, and charging capabilities, the Range Rover offers an exceptional driving experience, allowing customers to enjoy zero-emission electric driving for most of their daily journeys. Land Rover's focus on sustainable luxury and technological innovation further solidifies the Range Rover's position as a true leader in the luxury SUV segment.