Three years have gone by since
Land Rover launched what is still regarded as one of the coolest 4x4s on the market. The Range Rover cannot afford to stand still; since its inception rivals have come thick and fast. As well as a
new M-class Mercedes and the imminent BMW X5 replacement, the Range Rover has competition from within, in the shape of the more grown up Discovery 3 and perhaps more importantly, the
Range Rover Sport, also making its debut in Detroit.
At the forefront of the Range Rover facelift is a new line-up of engines, developed in conjunction with Jaguar. Headline grabbing is ensured by the fitment of the 4.2-litre supercharged V8 found in the Jaguar 'R' models, churning out 400bhp and a whopping 413lb.ft of torque. A new naturally aspirated 4.4-litre version of this V8 is also available, producing a more sedate 305bhp, though even this unit betters the outgoing
BMW-sourced V8 in all the important areas. Surprisingly, the
turbo diesel engine is unchanged for the present, although we think that the new V6 diesel from the Discovery would be a much better option. All engines are linked to a six-speed automatic transmission as before, and the Range Rover retains its legendary, if little used off-road ability.
Of more interest to the burgeoning SUV market will be the new styling touches. All 2005 model year Range Rovers get a new front bumper and lights along with an updated front grille. These changes bring the styling in to line with the Sport version, though it would have been nice for there to be a clearer distinction between the two models. More aggressive detailing is reserved for the top-of-the range supercharged model, including a funky mesh front grille and "power vents" in the front wings. It will also feature 20-inch alloys, where the rest of the range makes do with 18- and 19-inch. Coupled with interior refinements, the Range Rover's rivals have it all to do.
The Car Enthusiast will drive the new Range Rover later in the year. Watch out for the review on the main
Road Tests page.
Shane O' Donoghue - 26 Jan 2005