Newly Developed 5-Liter V8 Unit

The Range Rover Vogue is powered by a newly developed 5-liter V8 unit. It features new technologies such as the conventional spray-guided gasoline injection system and torque-driven independent dual variable camshaft timing. Two variants are available for the "Range Rover Vogue 5.0 V8": a naturally aspirated engine, and the "Range Rover Vogue 5.0 V8 SUPERCHARGED," which combines the same unit with a supercharger.

The naturally aspirated engine boasts a maximum output of 375ps at 6500rpm and a maximum torque of 52.0kgm at 3500rpm, compared to the previous 4.4-liter V8's 306ps/5750rpm and 44.9kgm/4000rpm. Meanwhile, the supercharged version, which previously used a 4.2-liter engine producing 396ps/5750rpm and 57.1kgm/3500rpm, now achieves a high output of 510ps at 6000-6500rpm and a massive torque of 625Nm (63.8kgm) at 2500-5500rpm by combining a 5-liter V8 with a supercharger. According to the manufacturer, Land Rover, these high performance levels were achieved "without increasing fuel efficiency or CO2 emissions."

Concurrently, improvements in "vehicle dynamics" are also highlighted. One such feature is the "Adaptive Dynamics System," standard on the "SUPERCHARGED" model. This system continuously monitors road conditions and makes real-time adjustments to the damper settings.

Improved Driving Performance On and Off-Road

A key objective of this update was to enhance driving performance both off-road and on-road. The key features are listed below:

• "Terrain Response," which allows for integrated control of the engine, transmission, suspension, and traction according to driving conditions via a dial.
• "Hill Descent Control," which automatically applies optimal braking force when descending steep slopes.
• "Gradient Release Control," which enables smooth hill starts on steep inclines.

These features have been further refined. For example, the Range Rover Sport SUPERCHARGED now includes a "Dynamic Mode" for "Terrain Response." This mode enhances on-road performance through integrated control of the steering, suspension, and throttle response, enabling even sportier driving. Additionally, this model now features paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

Redesigned Exterior

The exterior design also sets it apart from previous models. The Range Rover Vogue features a metallic front grille with an emphasis on three horizontal lines, combined with a simple, rounded front bumper. The three-line motif is also echoed in the air vents behind the front wheels, making the new model instantly recognizable even from the side. The Range Rover Sport is characterized by two horizontal lines. Furthermore, the interior of the Range Rover Sport has become more luxurious.

Another noteworthy aspect of this new model introduction is Land Rover Japan's "New Car CO2 Offset Program." With each purchase, Land Rover will fund projects to offset the amount of CO2 emitted by a vehicle over 72,000 km of driving.

Upon driving, the first impression of the Range Rover Vogue was its interior. The instrument panel features a virtual instrument panel using an LCD screen. When the engine starts, the speedometer, tachometer, and indicators for various controls appear before the driver. Displaying meter needles as a virtual image is a trend sometimes seen in the world of luxury cars, such as the Mercedes S-Class, but an all-virtual display offers a novel experience. Executives accustomed to computers might find it intuitive.

More Powerful Performance

The initial impression upon driving is that it has become more powerful, thanks to the 375ps 5-liter V8. The abundant torque and seamless power delivery characteristic of this engine perfectly complement the "exuberance" of the Range Rover Vogue. The ride comfort is on the softer side, fitting well with the concept of "cruising" on long drives. Its ability to transport occupants stress-free over long distances underscores that its luxurious, expensive, and large body is not the sole reason for its existence.

With a vehicle length of 4970mm and a height of 1880mm, its spaciousness and sense of openness, combined with the "Autobiography" program allowing extensive customization of seat and dashboard colors and materials, remain key attractions of the Range Rover as a luxury vehicle. Browsing the catalog to find your personal preference is quite enjoyable. This comfortable world allows for high-speed travel and the possibility of venturing off-road (though less common in Japan). Simply dreaming of these possibilities confirms that the Range Rover's worldview remains strong.