New Range Rover Sport arrives with plug-in hybrids and first-ever full EV
The new third-gen Range Rover Sport has made its debut, bringing latest electrified variants and new dynamic capabilities.
Available to order now, it includes plug-in hybrid variants and the arrival of the first-ever fully electric version in 2024.
Following hot on the heels of the fifth-generation Range Rover revealed late last year, the smaller sibling sits on the same MLA-Flex platform that enables advances in electrification.
Ahead of the arrival of the fully electric version, the powertrain line-up includes two plug-in hybrids, using a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and 38.2kWh battery to enable a pure-electric driving range of up to 70 miles (113km) and CO2 emissions from 18g/km, placing them in the 8% or potentially 5% BiK brackets until 2025.
The line-up also includes mild hybrid petrol and diesel Ingenium engines along with the top-of-the-range P530 V8 twin turbo, which delivers 530hp and 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds.
While design remains familiar, the new model employs new modernist and minimalist features and is also larger than before and with increased boot space.
It’s also billed as the most dynamically capable Range Rover Sport yet and uses a suite of technologies governed by the brand’s Integrated Chassis Control system and said to mark the most advanced combination of chassis technologies ever fitted to a Land Rover.
A new Stormer Handling Pack combines Dynamic Response Pro – a 48V electronic active roll control system – All-Wheel Steering, an Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking, and Configurable Programmes.
The Range Rover Sport also gets the latest Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) and new innovations such as the debut of Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control, which provides drivers with a choice of four settings.
It also marks the first use on a Range Rover of Dynamic Air Suspension, which comes as standard and uses switchable volume air springs, plus twin-valve active dampers provide new levels of agility, control and composure.
Nick Collins, executive director vehicle programmes, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Land Rover’s pioneering MLA-Flex architecture and the latest chassis systems come together to deliver the highest levels of dynamism we’ve ever seen on Range Rover Sport. Integrated Chassis Control governs the comprehensive suite of innovations, coordinating everything from the latest switchable-volume air suspension system to our Dynamic Response Pro electronic active roll control. The result is the most engaging and thrilling Range Rover Sport ever.”
Trim levels encompass SE, Dynamic, Autobiograpy and First Edition designations. Onboard technologies include the Pivi Pro infotainment set-up with a 13.1-inch floating haptic touchscreen, complemented by a 13.7-inch Interactive Driver Display and integrated Amazon Alexa with a voice Al f unction. Over-the-air updates enable remote upgrades for 63 electronic modules, unlocking new services for drivers without a trip to the dealers.
A selection of Meridian audio options is available, including a Signature Sound System that’s the most advanced and powerful audio system ever fitted to a Range Rover Sport, with up to 29 speakers including four headrest speakers, and supported by next-generation Active Noise Cancellation. The Cabin Air Purification Pro system also supports onboard refinement.
The new Range Rover Sport will be produced at the Solihull plant in the UK and starts deliveries in the autumn.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
