Land Rover Range Rover
Ratings
5 stars
Summary
Highly Recommended. Still the classiest SUV on the block and now with the option of a storming V8 diesel.
Review
The current Range Rover has ruled the roost when it comes to premium off-roaders since its introduction in 2002, and a recent package of mild revisions (plus the arrival of a new V8 diesel engine) should help to keep it on top of the pile for a good while longer.
Most of the design and engineering work on it was done by BMW, and the sheer quality it's been built with really shines through. The sleek exterior styling is a clever re-interpretation of the original Range Rover shape. And the cabin is truly outstanding thanks to its combination of space, design and high quality materials.
It's on tarmac that this generation of Range Rover feels vastly better than its wayward, wobblesome predecessors. Air suspension helps to keep everything comfortable over rougher surfaces, while the Rangie even shows reasonable enthusiasm for dealing with a twisty road. And as you would expect, it's brilliant off-road, effortlessly conquering the sort of terrain that its more road-biased rivals wouldn't even attempt.
Three motors are available, but the vast majority of buyers will opt for the excellent new V8 turbo diesel. Next to it we can't see much point in picking either the mega-thirsty petrol powerplants - a 4.4 litre V8 and a 4.2 litre supercharged V8.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
5 star
A brilliant update of the seminal original. Handsome and imposing without being too brash. Makes rivals look over-done and vulgar.
Handling
4 star
Far better than you would expect for something this big. The Rangie corners accurately and with a commendable lack of roll.
Comfort
5 star
The well-finished cabin is a supremely restful place to spend time and ride quality is very impressive, helping to insulate occupants like almost nothing else.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
Very well built, and the cabin benefits from some really classy materials and strong design - although a couple of cheap-looking switches from the Ford parts bin have crept in.
Performance
4 star
It can't match some rivals on outright rapidity, but the Range Rover is certainly quick enough for its typical customer's expectations. The new 3.6 litre TDV8 diesel is vastly better than the previous 3.0 litre diesel engine, too.
Roominess
4 star
Only five seats, but all occupants enjoy plenty of space in the light, airy cabin. The boot is impressively commodious too.
Running Costs
2 star
The Range Rover is expensive to insure and maintain, and even the new V8 diesel will struggle to better 25 mpg in everyday use. Residual values are very healthy, though - providing you don't go mad with the options.
Value for money
3 star
Cheaper versions offer good standard equipment and look well specified for the money - but it gets very expensive as you head towards the top of the range.
