A Drive That Belies Its 2.5-Ton Weight

The most delightful surprise of this test drive was encountering the new Range Rover Sport Supercharged. The "Sport" is available with two engine options: a 5-liter V8 producing 375ps/6500rpm and 52.0kgm/3500rpm, and an engine of the same displacement but with a supercharger, delivering 510ps/6000-6500rpm and 625kW (63.8kgm)/2500-5500rpm.

Compared to the Range Rover Vogue, the "Sport" features a shorter wheelbase of 2745mm (135mm less) and a shorter overall length of 4795mm (175mm less). It was developed for users who want to enjoy sporty driving in a more compact body. While it now shares engines with the "Vogue," its fundamental character remains unchanged.

The appeal of the Range Rover Sport Supercharged lies in the sheer joy of driving it, making it feel like a new genre of sports car. As soon as you settle into the supportive leather seats and press the accelerator, you know it's something entirely different. The engine, which produces maximum torque from 2500rpm, delivers powerful propulsion, making the 2.5-ton vehicle feel remarkably light.

Like a Two-Seater Sports Car

Another noteworthy aspect is the handling. Push the steering wheel, which offers a subtle resistance, and the car reacts sensitively, changing direction. Body roll is appropriately controlled, ensuring you stay on your intended line. The combination of strong acceleration and precise response to the driver's intentions makes it incredibly agile. You can almost forget that this is a car with a spacious cabin comfortably seating four adults, and feel as though you're driving a two-seater sports car. To manage this exhilarating experience, the "Adaptive Dynamics" electronic system has been adopted this time; it anticipates and moderates extreme inputs from the driver, such as excessive acceleration or sudden steering, to prevent overly aggressive maneuvers.

Previously, the Range Rover Sport's interior was kept simple to align with its sporty concept, but this apparently led to dissatisfaction among some users. Now, the interior boasts a luxurious ambiance with wood and leather, mirroring the "Vogue." Opting for a subdued exterior color and surprising occupants with a two-tone interior upon opening the doors could be a delightful choice. Personally, I would opt for the perforated leather; it offers both the functional benefit of breathability and the tactile pleasure of a refined feel.

The Range Rover Sport is now priced at a "strategic price" (Land Rover Japan) of 7.54 million yen for the V8 model. While it may not possess excessive power at 375ps, its excellent handling and comfortable ride offer significant appeal. In that sense, this too should be a wise purchase. Range Rover, showing remarkable progress alongside Jaguar within the same group, is evolving. If you think "not again," try test driving the "Sport." We guarantee you'll rediscover how much fun driving can be.

Range Rover Sport Supercharged
Body: Length 4795 x Width 1930 x Height 1810mm
Engine: 5.0L V8 DOHC Supercharged
Max Output: 375kW [510ps] / 6000-6500rpm
Max Torque: 625Nm [63.8kgm] / 2500-5500rpm
Drivetrain: 4WD
Transmission: 6AT
Price: 11.04 million yen

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