New Range Rover: XL Combustion Engine with Fixed Phase-Out Date

PHEV technology is installed in a space-neutral manner

The placement of the battery unit under the vehicle floor and between the axles ensures that neither the space available for passengers and luggage nor the off-road capability are impaired by the electrical components, the British continue to advertise. Additionally, the hybrid system uses so-called eHorizon navigation data to optimize energy consumption during the journey. This ensures that, if desired, you can reach your destination using electric energy and that the electric drive is optimized for navigating environmental zones.

The consumption of the newly developed 3.0-liter inline-six diesel and petrol engines with their many "horsepower" is supposed to be kept reasonably in check in the new "Range" thanks to 48-volt mild hybrid technology with smooth power delivery. The MHEV system uses a belt starter generator to recuperate the energy that is otherwise wasted during braking or deceleration, and here it’s considerable. This helps to accelerate the heavy vehicle more efficiently, comfortably, and quickly. The stop-start system is designed to save fuel while idling.

Floating roof, good aerodynamics for an SUV

The design, inspired by rich heritage with the typical "Floating Roof," is not only intended to provide a modern, clean appearance but also contribute significantly to the aerodynamics of the body. With a drag coefficient of cw = 0.30, the new Range Rover aims to become the most aerodynamic luxury SUV on the market. The British off-road cruiser is also said to showcase impressive agility for such a "ship" thanks to an all-wheel steering system that returns it in an advantageous eleven meters for this size.

Active noise cancellation via sound system

For quiet and healthy travel, there is noise cancellation technology in the headrests and an air purification system that even claims to filter SARS-Cov2 viruses from the air. The active noise cancellation of the third development stage detects wheel vibrations as well as tire and engine noises that try to penetrate the passenger cabin. It then sends a noise-canceling signal to the 35 speakers of the sound system. The air filter essentially combines three functions: CO₂ control, PM2.5 filtration, and Nanoe-X technology to reduce allergens and remove pathogens. The Nanoe-X technology developed by Panasonic has been scientifically proven to be effective, claims the manufacturer.

Looking ahead: The suspension gets electronic

The Dynamic Response Pro body control system or the preemptive suspension also uses eHorizon navigation data to anticipate the upcoming driving route and prepare the suspension accordingly. The intelligent technology further works in the new Range with adaptive cruise control with steering assist to compensate for body movements caused by sudden speed changes. The electronically-controlled active 48-volt roll stabilization for the adaptive chassis with independent suspension and air suspension is also interesting.

Smart all-wheel drive controls individual wheels

In addition, the standard all-wheel drive for the Range, which has now advanced to Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD), is enhanced. The software control of the driving dynamics system monitors traction levels and driver inputs 100 times per second to distribute torque "predictively," i.e., in "anticipatory obedience." This works both between the front and rear axles and between the two rear wheels. With its high weight, engine power, and all-wheel drive, the Range is naturally also predestined for towing tasks: The towing capacity is a respectable 3,500 kilos. And the trunk can hold a luxurious 818 to 1,841 liters of fine cargo.

EVA stays "up to date": Software via air interface

Of course, the luxury SUV is also contemporary in connectivity: Based on the new, electric vehicle architecture "EVA," the ability for over-the-air software updates is included. Additionally, Amazon's Alexa moves on board for voice control of infotainment, navigation, or phone. Naturally, wireless Carplay/Android Auto as well as inductive charging of the smartphone are present.

And the manufacturer also digitalizes the cockpit: Pivi Pro comes in a further enhanced form with the largest touchscreen to date: The curved 13.1-inch screen is designed to float above the dashboard. The addition is an elegant, almost equally floating 13.7-inch instrument display with high-resolution graphics and a three-part layout. For guests on board, there are two adjustable 11.4-inch HD touchscreens on the backs of the front seats.

LED lights set highlights and a standard

Also "state of the art" are the consistently installed, efficient, and bright digital LED lights with a range of up to 500 meters. They are also intended to set a "highlight" in terms of design with their own daytime running light signature, including dynamic indicators, adaptive headlights, and projection technology at startup. Additionally, new type maneuvering lights help illuminate the area around the vehicle in low-light conditions, making maneuvers significantly easier in conjunction with the 3D surround camera, as promised.

Eyecatcher: Parking via remote control

And there is even a remote control for the new XL SUV: It is called the Remote Park Assist and functions via a smartphone app as a remote control for parking. This allows the British luxury cruiser to be directed into or out of tight parking spaces by the user standing directly next to it—a guaranteed eyecatcher at the pier. But it must also be worth at least 121,200 euros (gross!), as stated in the 80-page glossy price list, starting price, of course. Oh, Lord...

What does that mean?

Whoever in this world belongs to the "Happy Few" seriously considering the purchase of a new Range Rover, can only be advised: Wait. And have another Earl Grey. At least until 2022 when the PHEV arrives, with its 80 electric kilometers and fast-charger making it somewhat practical for everyday use (if one has to get by with a 5.05-meter vehicle). Until then, the "Monster from the Midlands" is also quite the guzzler, albeit reasonably economical with the diesel and clearly more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. But that doesn't have to mean much...

For those in a hurry, because they just can't wait, they should at least compensate for the many liters of fossil fuel flowing through the noble combustion chambers with CO2 certificates. In these income brackets, it almost goes without saying. For those who are not in such a rush, it is better to wait until 2024. Any bet, the pure electric drive will fit the Range Rover best and will also catapult it technically into a league where it already visually (if you’re into SUVs) belongs. Into the future.