Land Rover has revealed an all-new Range Rover, describing it as the most capable and most luxurious version of the model yet.On the road early next year, the newcomer is said to be lighter, stronger and more refinement.
The new Range Rover is the fourth generation of the line, which first launched in 1970. It has been completely redesigned from the ground up.
The major advance is a lightweight all-aluminium monocoque body structure, according to its creators the world’s first SUV so fitted.
It weighs in 39 per cent lighter than the steel body in the outgoing model, the new Range Rover saving in total up to 420kg with consequent gains in handling, acceleration, fuel economy and CO2 emissions.
The front and rear chassis architecture is also made from aluminium, with completely re-engineered four-corner air suspension. It is said to offer flatter, more confident cornering, with natural and intuitive steering feel.
Off-road capability, always a Range Rover selling point, has been further improved, most notably through a next-generation version the Terrain Response system, which automatically selects the most suitable vehicle settings for the type of ground being driven over.
The new Range Rover also boasts a new, cleaner looking body style. According to Design Director Gerry McGovern it was important to evolve the look but ensure the car would be instantly recognisable as a Range Rover.
“Designing the next generation Range Rover, following over 40 years of success, came with a huge responsibility to protect the DNA of such an icon,” McGovern says.
And Land Rover Global Brand Director John Edwards believes they have succeeded. “The new Range Rover preserves the essential, unique character of the vehicle – that special blend of luxury, performance and unmatched all-terrain capability,” he says.
“However, its clean sheet design and revolutionary lightweight construction have enabled us to transform the experience for luxury vehicle customers, with a step change in comfort, refinement and handling.”
Occupants will also see advantages in the new body, notably more than118mm of extra legroom in the rear seats. A new two-seat Executive Class seating package will be offered as an option..
Power options will range between the familiar supercharged V8 petrol engine, TDV6 and SDV8 diesel engines. All will drive through an eight-speed auto transmission.
Prices, which are expected to start from around £70,000, are likely to be announced when order books open in September, before the new Range Rover makes its public debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month.
