An excellent companion for the capable chassis, the BMW sourced 282-hp 4.4-L V8 still resides under the hood. As smooth as it is, the Range Rover's significant 2,440 kg (5,379 lb) to 2,570 kg (5,666 lb) curb weight keeps 0 to 100 km/h sprints tamed to a modest 9.5 seconds. Still, the new model is miles quicker than the old 4.6-L pushrod power unit. Top speed results in a respectable 210 km/h, impressive considering its large frontal mass.
While they'll carve a clean line across the apex of your choice, the P255/55HR19 all-season tires on 19-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels are much too pretty to punish in the untamed world (BTW: 20" rims are available as a dealer installed option). Power gets down to their treads via a multimode ZF 5-speed automatic transmission, mated to an even more capable permanent 4-wheel drive system than previous models. Stopping to engage low gear in the 2-speed electronic transfer gearbox with Torsen torque-sensing center differential isn't necessary. Just flick the console mounted lever and more traction than you'll probably ever need is at your command - enhanced by electronic traction control of course. A yellow accented lever for actuating the Hill Decent Control (HDC) system sits on the rear of the console just to the left.
Above the lower center console-mounted transmission shifter and parking brake resides an exquisitely arranged assortment of rectangular and circular, digital and analog, buttons and switchgear. These include an analog clock, a toggle and corresponding display for manually adjusting the automatic ride-height feature, as well as a Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on/off switch and a rear liftgate opener. A comprehensive triple-zone (left-front, right-front, rear) automatic climate control system with pollen filter is just above, with personal preference programming capabilities. An expanse of sumptuous Blenheim leather - the same as covers all seat surfaces and trim - dissects the console, interrupted by center twin air vents surrounding both hazard and power door lock buttons. Above this, the metallic trim covered console continues with a large-screen DVD-based navigation/audio system. The console itself is wrapped between gloriously finished burled walnut or American cherry end pieces - either veneer also adorns each end of the dash and door sills.