Why Choose a Range Rover?

With the introduction of the Evoque, Land Rover entered a new segment.



Nevertheless, the popular models for those with a taste for luxury are none other than the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. Regardless of where you are in the world, these are the ultimate luxury SUVs.



Of course, there is a story behind this reputation.




In other words, there were no other vehicles at the time that offered both the off-road capability of a 4WD system and sufficient cargo space for carrying gear for outdoor activities. Prior to this, 4WD vehicles lacked cargo capacity, and 2WD station wagons did not possess the performance to handle rough terrain.

Furthermore, there were other reasons why high-profile individuals readily adopted this brand.

Since the Series 1, Land Rover has been used as Queen Elizabeth's parade vehicle. As mentioned earlier, its unique position in the British automotive industry led to such usage.

As you can imagine, a tall vehicle was convenient for parades.

Tailwinds from North America

Developments in North America, the largest market, also played a role in the creation of this vehicle. The demand for SUVs in the Americas was rapidly increasing around this time.

In that region, pickup trucks and their derivatives, SUVs, were commonplace. Furthermore, the demand for a recreational aspect in these vehicles emerged from the 1960s onwards. SUVs that served as family transport became more sought after than models that appeared overtly heavy-duty.

Land Rover's management focused on this trend when developing the Range Rover. Naturally, success in this market would present an excellent opportunity to earn foreign currency.

The origin of the luxury SUV in America is, by some accounts, the "Jeep Wagoneer" released in 1963. The unprecedented application of wood paneling to the body was a way to emphasize its high-class status.

Retro-Modern Design

With these points in mind, I test-drove the new "Range Rover" in Nagasaki.

Starting from a resort hotel in Omura Bay, we drove around various locations, including the city.

I had driven the new model several times before and had interviewed its design director,Gerry McGovern, on multiple occasions.Although he was the one who brought the Evoque to the world, he was understandably cautious about the Range Rover's model change. It had to be acceptable to the existing Range Rover owners while also incorporating new elements. The theme for this iteration was precisely the fusion of heritage and modernity.

Cutting-Edge Hardware

However, we must not forget the significant advancements in hardware.

The body frame of the new Range Rover is all-aluminum. This was achieved through leading aluminum processing technology, a first for SUVs worldwide. Of course, the know-how behind this is not new; it has been developed by our sister brand, Jaguar, since 2003, starting with the "XJ" known as the X350 model.

In conclusion, the aluminum-clad body feels surprisingly light when driven, offering nimble handling. It makes you forget the car's size even through consecutive corners. Simultaneously, the increased body rigidity has enhanced the connection felt through steering inputs. It's rare to find an SUV that responds so intuitively.

What's more, the brakes can be applied with confidence. When a car feels heavy, the G-force can be overwhelming, making it difficult to brake hard. But this car doesn't have that issue. Even at considerable speed, you feel a lightness that allows you to brake without hesitation. This is quite important.

And yet, the ride comfort remains supple, which is excellent. The air suspension is already precisely controlled, but the new model seems to have further refined it. There are no jarring transitions during adjustments, and even when firm, it never feels harsh. This balance is truly remarkable. The ride height is automatically adjusted.

Furthermore, the power from the 5-liter supercharged engine is absolute, leaving no room for complaint. Whether cruising at low RPMs or driving assertively, it performs admirably.




Mind you, if you focus on fuel-efficient driving, the results aren't too bad. That's the benefit of generating strong torque from low RPMs. Incidentally, this iteration has improved efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions compared to the previous model.

Revisiting the Range Rover Sport

So, what about the Range Rover Sport?

While it's true that the new model has already been unveiled at overseas motor shows,and interest naturally leans towards it,driving the current model again reveals its high level of refinement.

Its tuning is clearly sportier than the Range Rover's, establishing a distinct character for the vehicle. The length under 5 meters and the shorter wheelbase compared to the Range Rover all contribute to its sporty demeanor.

The 5.0 V8 LIMITED model I test-drove is a limited edition of only 120 units. While I'll omit the details here, it features aerodynamic parts that enhance its presence. The 20-inch sporty wheels complement the overall look.




When I started driving, after being in the larger Range Rover, the car felt smaller. The steering feel is also linear, with a satisfying increase in resistance as you turn the wheel. It makes you feel like you can push it hard, forgetting its height.

The engine is a naturally aspirated 5-liter V8. Its maximum output is 375 horsepower. Honestly, there's no sense of inadequacy here. That's understandable. When evaluated absolutely, not relatively, it's a sufficient figure.




While the new models are excellent, there's an undeniable charm to these refined, mature models. Driving the Range Rover Sport through winding roads, I felt this anew after a long time.

Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography

Body Size | Length 5,005 x Width 1,985 x Height 1,865 mm

Wheelbase | 2,920 mm

Tread (Front/Rear) | 1,690 / 1,685 mm

Weight | 2,520 kg

Engine | 4,999cc V8 DOHC Supercharged

Max Output | 375kW (510ps) / 6,500 rpm

Max Torque | 625Nm (63.8kgm) / 2,500 rpm

Transmission | 8-speed Automatic

Drivetrain | 4WD

Tires | 275/40R22

Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 5.3 km/ℓ

Price | ¥16,700,000





Land Rover Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Limited
Body Size | Length 4,795 x Width 1,930 x Height 1,810 mm

Wheelbase | 2,745 mm

Tread (Front/Rear) | 1,605 / 1,610 mm

Weight | 2,580 kg

Engine | 4,999cc V8 DOHC

Max Output | 276kW (375ps) / 6,500 rpm

Max Torque | 510Nm (52.0kgm) / 3,500 rpm

Transmission | 6-speed Automatic

Drivetrain | 4WD

Tires | 275/40R20

Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 6.0 km/ℓ

Price | ¥7,930,000 (Limited to 120 units)