Range Rover review

For those that can afford it, the fifth-generation Range Rover represents a further shift upmarket for the iconic 4x4. A focus on luxury, quality and new on-board technology, plus the latest Land Rover engineering expertise means that it feels supremely capable, whether on or off road. 

A strong engine line-up, including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid power, just adds to the Range Rover’s appeal, as does its seven-seat flexibility. Land Rover appears to have nailed the execution of its new flagship SUV and, with an all-electric model on the horizon, its popularity should be as strong as ever.

About the Range Rover

Over the past 50 years or so the Range Rover has evolved from a rather utilitarian 4x4 model to a luxury SUV that offers first-class levels of comfort and refinement. Gone are the days of washing down the interior with a hose, and instead owners are now cosseted in a sumptuous cabin that showcases Land Rover’s latest onboard technology and engineering prowess. It's such an appealing, first-class package that we named the Range Rover our 2022 Luxury Car of the Year.

A diversified Land Rover line-up that includes the latest Range Rover Sport, Velar and redesigned Defender is primed to take on more mainstream SUV rivals from the likes of Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Volvo, while the Range Rover looks more towards competition from brands such as Bentley and even Rolls-Royce. It might be worth rethinking the Range Rover as an uber-luxury car first, that just happens to be masterful off-road, too.

Land Rover has been mindful of the mediocre reputation the previous Range Rover model acquired for overall quality and reliability. Alongside vast investment in the British manufacturer’s Solihill factory, the fifth-generation model uses the company’s new MLA-Flex platform – allowing for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains, while buyers also have the option of standard or long-wheelbase models.

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A fully-electric Range Rover is due in 2024, although the model line-up includes a strong mix of electrified engines: the 3.0-litre, six-cylinder D300 and D350 diesel versions, along with the P400 petrol include 48-volt mild-hybrid tech, while the P440e and P510e PHEVs offer up to 70 miles of all-electric drive. The 4.4-litre V8 pure petrol unit in the P530 model does without any form of hybrid assistance, but delivers 523bhp and a menacing growl from under the bonnet.

The familiar SE, HSE and Autobiography specification packs make a return with the latest Range Rover, alongside the standalone performance SV model, while a First Edition version was also available at launch. There's also been a few special edition models of the Range Rover already, including the £250,000 Lansdowne Edition. 

You’ll need around £100k to even think of becoming a Range Rover owner, and although standard equipment is generous, the HSE trim (costing a further £6,000) arguably offers the sweet spot in the lineup. Pair it with either diesel engine or a plug-in hybrid unit (depending on your driving habits) and you’ll have an exceptionally desirable luxury SUV.

For an alternative review of the Range Rover, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk...