The fourth-generation Range Rover is a vehicle of contradictions. It is a machine engineered to be lighter and stiffer through advanced aluminum monocoque technology, yet it remains a massive, heavy presence on the road. While Land Rover has made significant strides in weight reduction, our testing reveals a vehicle that still tips the scales at over 2.6 tonnes—nearly 300kg heavier than the manufacturer’s optimistic claims for base models.
However, weight is not necessarily a weakness here. In the world of ultra-luxury SUVs, mass often translates to a sense of “imperious” stability and isolation from the outside world. The Range Rover doesn’t just compete with other SUVs; it sits in a class of its own, challenging the likes of the Mercedes S-Class and even Bentley.
Engineering for Comfort and Capability
Land Rover has focused heavily on “cosseting” the occupants. To combat the challenges of a heavy chassis, they have implemented several sophisticated technologies:
- Refined Suspension: An air suspension system featuring aluminum chassis arms, active dampers, and anti-roll bars provides a near-seamless ride.
- Quietness by Design: The use of “low-hysteresis” air springs on the front axle and new dual-isolation engine mounts ensures that road noise and mechanical vibrations are kept to an absolute minimum.
- Off-Road Supremacy: Despite its luxury focus, it remains a true Land Rover. With a 3,500kg towing capacity, a maximum ground clearance of over 300mm, and a wading depth of 900mm, it remains one of the most capable off-roaders ever built.
A Cabin of Unrivaled Quality
Stepping inside the Range Rover is a transformative experience. The interior avoids the “fake” luxury often found in modern vehicles; the leather feels like leather, the wood like real wood, and even the metal accents possess a genuine weight and texture.
The layout is spacious and intuitive. The front offers commanding views thanks to thin pillars and an easily manageable bonnet, while the rear provides ample legroom—especially in the Long Wheelbase (LWB) models, which offer an additional 186mm of space.
Trim Levels at a Glance
The range is divided into several distinct tiers to suit different levels of luxury:
1. Vogue: The entry point, featuring a panoramic roof, tri-zone climate control, and essential safety tech.
2. Vogue SE: Adds 21-inch wheels, ventilated seats, and a premium 825W Meridian sound system.
3. Autobiography: A significant leap into high luxury with four-zone climate control, massaging seats, and adaptive cruise control.
4. SVAutobiography Dynamic: The pinnacle of performance and luxury, featuring Brembo brakes, a 1700W sound system, and 22-inch wheels.
Performance: Power for Every Driver
The engine lineup is diverse, catering to those who prioritize efficiency as much as those who crave raw power:
- The Efficient Choice: The 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel (255bhp) is a balanced performer, offering plenty of torque for overtaking without the “terrifying” fuel bills of the larger engines.
- The Smooth Cruiser: The 4.4-litre V8 diesel provides effortless torque (516lb ft) at low revs, making it ideal for high-speed cruising.
- The Performance Beast: The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 (503bhp) offers sports-car-like acceleration, hitting 0–60mph in roughly 5.4 seconds. For those needing even more, the SVO-tuned version pushes output to 542bhp.
The Trade-offs: Fuel and Depreciation
No vehicle of this magnitude is without its drawbacks. The most significant “tax” on owning a Range Rover is at the fuel pump.
While the diesel engines are manageable, the high-performance petrol engines are incredibly thirsty; pushing them to their limits can result in fuel economy dropping as low as 10mpg.
Furthermore, because these vehicles are highly specialized luxury goods, they are subject to significant depreciation. Buyers must be prepared for the reality that while the car provides an unparalleled experience, its market value will drop sharply over time.
Verdict
The Range Rover is a masterclass in all-around capability. It manages to be a refined limousine, a high-speed cruiser, and a rugged off-roader all at once. While its immense weight and fuel consumption prevent it from being a “perfect” machine, its ability to provide a truly exceptional driving experience makes it one of the most impressive vehicles of the last decade.
The Range Rover is a heavy, thirsty, but ultimately magnificent achievement that justifies its cost through sheer, unadulterated capability.
