Range Rover gets new mild-hybrid powertrain

Jaguar Land Rover has fitted a new mild-hybrid engine to the Range Rover, comprising a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine and electric motor. JLR claims the new powertrain improves the Range Rover’s economy, reduces emissions and benefits performance. Available to order now, prices start from £83,655.

Performance figures for the new 3.0-litre straight-six MHEV powertrain stand at 394bhp and 550Nm of torque. The engine is fitted with a twin-scroll turbocharger, assisted by an electric motor which primes the turbine at low engine speeds. JLR claims this system eliminates turbo lag, allowing a 0-60mph time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 140mph.

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Like all Range Rovers, power is fed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Economy stands at 30.4mpg, while emissions are a claimed 212g/km of CO2 under the NEDC test regime. These figures are achieved with the help of start-stop technology and an energy recuperation system, which harvests electricity under deceleration and stores it in a 48V battery for later use.

To complement the new powertrain, JLR has given the Range Rover an updated colour palette and new 22-inch alloy wheels. Revised headlights also feature with a new “Tourist Mode” and “Signpost Dimming” settings. The former adjusts the beam direction when driving abroad, while the latter identifies road signs and dips the beam accordingly to reduce glare.

Inside, the Range Rover now comes as standard with JLR’s Smartphone Pack, which adds support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2 is a persistent feature, as well as safety features such as adaptive cruise control and high-speed emergency braking.

Now read our in-depth review of the Range Rover. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below…