The second-generation Land Rover Range Rover Sport has finally been unveiled at the New York International Motor Show. From a market positioning point of view, it is clear the new Range Rover Sport fits right in between the small Range Rover Evoque and full-size Range Rover. This has the potential to make it a ‘Goldilocks’ car for Range Rover; not too hard, not too soft, but just right.
In terms of engineering, Land Rover have ditched the old Discovery’s heavy twin construction platform, in favour of a lightweight aluminium chassis for the new Sport. The modern architecture saves up to 420 kg, bringing massive improvements to performance, efficiency and handling.
Land Rover says this is the fastest, most agile and most responsive Range Rover they have ever made. Together with its all-terrain capability, handsome looks and luxurious interior, you can safely say this car will be a huge success for the brand.
Assertive, powerful and muscular, the new Sport is 62 mm longer and 55 mm wider than before. It’s over 8% more aerodynamic than its predecessor and is 149 mm shorter and 55 mm lower than the Range Rover on which it is based. Only 25% of the internals are shared between the two models. The new Sport tips the scales with 45 kg less than its predecessor, with a total of 2 115 kg.
Interior accommodation and cabin access are significantly improved with a wheelbase that’s 178 mm longer. The Range Rover Sport also breaks new ground by having the option of seven seats for the very first time.
Only two engines are available for now, the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 petrol that makes 380 kW and the 3.0-litre SDV6 diesel engine with 217 kW. A lower powered TDV6 engine will join the range next year, as will a high performance 4.4-litre SDV8 model. All models come with a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic gearbox. The sprint from 0 – 100 km/h is as fast as five seconds, with up to 24% better fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions as low as 194 g/km.
An updated Terrain Response 2 system with active lean control, rear locking differential and torque vectoring, guarantee enhanced handling capabilities on and off the road. Maximum wading depth is 850 mm (150 mm deeper than before).
As before, the Range Rover Sport will be available in SE, HSE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography Dynamic trim lines, with a wide choice of colours, finishes and wheels (19- to 22-inches).
