Driving the impressive all-new Ranger Rover Sport at its
reveal at OR Tambo airport conjured memories of the 1974 two-door and 1983
four-door Range Rovers I once owned. But the likeness ends there. The ’74, in
particular, was ungainly with road holding befitting a 1930’s sedan. But off the
road, they were impressive.
The all-new range rover sport
The Range Rover Sport is instead a revelation, especially
the supercharged 3-litre V6 version with that sporty engine sound. The silent
V6 twin turbocharged diesel proved just as impressive but with better engine
resilience. And the supercharged V8? Performance matched expectation, but road
holding and road-feel are much improved.
A
bold transformation in design
Sport’s handling, ride and road-feel are its most redeeming
features, this via the new lightweight suspension and innovative dynamic
chassis technology and reduction of over 420kg in weight. The new fully
independent lightweight double-wishbone front and advanced multi-link rear
aluminum suspension makes for impressive carlike handling. The all-new electric
power steering adds to a brilliantly direct steering feel.
Class-leading monster 546mm wheel articulation takes on the
toughest of off-road conditions while maximum ground clearance is increased by
51 to 278. The upgraded air suspension system automatically varies ride heights
between the two extremes as the new Terrain Response 2 system selects the most
suitable terrain program for the terrain you are presently traversing now,
recognizing obstacles and raising the suspension 35mm. should that prove
insufficient, a final 35mm is available via a dashboard control.
Throughout the
cockpit, the control layout has been angled and simplified for an intuitive and
distraction-free drive.
Two full-time WD systems are offered: one rugged unit with
two-speed transfer case and low-range for demanding off-road conditions, the
other, a lighter alternative with a single-speed transfer case and a 42/58
split Torsen differential that automatically distributes additional torque to
the axle with most grip for fast tar use.
Positioned between the big Range and Evoque, sport is bolder
looking with a muscular stance. Slightly longer now, it is still shorter than
rivals.
Two supercharged petrol engines and a twin turbocharged
diesel are on offer: the 5-liter 375kW V8, new 3-liter 250kW V6 and 215kW
3-liter SDV6 diesel – all paired with JLR’s electronically controlled 8-speed
automatic gearboxes for reduced CO2 emissions.
The clean lines
and abundance of light and space in the all-new Range Rover Sport combine to
create a cabin that enhances the driving experience.
Sport’s interior is distinctive with natty detailing and
craftsmanship. Strong architectural forms dominate a host of soft-touch
surfaces highlighted by a smaller diameter thick rim steering wheel, vertical
gear shifter, high center console, changeable mood lighting and more generous
seat bolsters.
Specification
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3.0 V6 S Supercharged: $ 77,745
·
CO2 g/km: 249
·
MPG: 26.4
·
Driveline: Four Wheel Drive
·
Power (kW / PS): 250 / 340
·
Torque (Nm): 450
·
Maximum torque (rpm): 3,500-5,000
·
Capacity (cc): 2,995
·
No. of cylinders: 6
·
Cylinder layout: Longitudinal V6
3.0 V6
S HSE Supercharged: $99,678
·
CO2 g/km: 194
·
MPG: 38.7
·
Driveline: Four Wheel Drive
·
Power (kW / PS): 190 / 258
·
Torque (Nm): 600
·
Maximum torque (rpm): 2,000
·
Capacity (cc): 2,993
·
No. of cylinders: 6
·
Cylinder layout: Longitudinal V6
3.0
SDV6 S: $83,526
·
CO2 g/km: 199
·
MPG: 37.7
·
Driveline: Four Wheel Drive
·
Power (kW / PS): 215 / 292
·
Torque (Nm): 600
·
Maximum torque (rpm): 2,000
·
Capacity (cc): 2,993
·
No. of cylinders: 6
·
Cylinder layout: Longitudinal V6
3.0
SDV6 HSE: $108,561
·
CO2 g/km: 169
·
MPG: 44.1
·
Driveline: Four Wheel Drive
·
Power (kW / PS): 250 / 340
·
Torque (Nm): 700
·
Maximum torque (rpm): 1,500-3,000
·
Capacity (cc): 2,993
·
No. of cylinders: 6
·
Cylinder layout: Longitudinal V6
5.0 V8
S HSE Dynamic S’charged: $119,150
·
CO2 g/km: 298
·
MPG: 22.1
·
Driveline: Four Wheel Drive
·
Power (kW / PS): 375 / 510
·
Torque (Nm): 625
·
Maximum torque (rpm): 2,500-5,500
·
Capacity (cc): 4,999.7
·
No. of cylinders: 8
·
Cylinder layout: Longitudinal V8
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