Land Rover has just pulled the wraps off its third-generation Range Rover Sport (compare it to the current Range Rover Sport here), and while its styling is purely evolutionary to the point that nobody…

All-new 2023 Range Rover Sport debuts with advanced hybrid powertrains

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Land Rover has refined every inch of the new 2023 Range Rover Sport, improving aerodynamics and styling.

Land Rover has just pulled the wraps off its third-generation Range Rover Sport (compare it to the current Range Rover Sport here), and while its styling is purely evolutionary to the point that nobody could possibly mistake it for anything other than a more aerodynamically refined Range Rover, it certainly looks good, while exterior improvements, including flush glazing and powered pop-out door handles, a hidden waist rail finisher, and a laser-welded roof, help deliver a slick drag coefficient of just 0.29.

“The exceptional New Range Rover Sport sets new standards as the ultimate sporting luxury SUV, building on seventeen years of unique customer appeal,” said Thierry Bolloré, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Land Rover. “It is the latest embodiment of our vision to create the world’s most desirable modern luxury vehicles, effortlessly blending new levels of sustainability with the signature qualities that have made Range Rover Sport so popular.”

New mixed-metal platform architecture makes body structure 35 percent stiffer

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
High-speed cruising and handling has reportedly improved substantively, which would have been no small feat.

Under the Sport’s sleek skin is an all-new rear-wheel drive-biased MLA-Flex mixed-metal platform architecture that provides up to 35 percent more torsional rigidity than the previous model.

“Land Rover’s pioneering flexible MLA architecture and the latest chassis systems come together to deliver the highest levels of dynamism we’ve ever seen on Range Rover Sport,” said Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle Programmes, Jaguar Land Rover. “Integrated Chassis Control governs the comprehensive suite of innovations, co-ordinating 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.”

Upgraded air suspension joins all-wheel steering for best-ever handling

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
A new platform architecture stiffens the Sport by 35 percent.

The new platform aids cornering capability, high-speed stability and overall handling feel, plus all trims feature Dynamic Response Pro, which minimizes roll thanks to a 48-volt electronic active roll control system that’s capable of applying up to 1,400 Nm of torque across each axle, whereas the standard Dynamic Air Suspension system, with switchable volume air springs, provides twin-valve active dampers for “ultimate agility, control and composure,” says Land Rover in their press release.

What’s more, a Stormer Handling Pack combines Dynamic Response Pro, All-Wheel Steering, and an Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking and Configurable Programs. Thanks to as much as 7.3 degrees of rear-wheel steering, the all-wheel steering system promises a compact car-like turning circle as well as the type of on-road agility normally found in a much smaller vehicle.

No shortage of conventional and hybrid power units available globally

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Base engines are mild hybrids while mid-range versions feature plug-in capability with 113 km of EV range.

Such agility and stability will be important considering all the power available in top-tier trims, but Land Rover has yet to announce exactly which powertrains will be available to the Canadian market.

Globally, the Sport will be offered with a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder Ingenium engine in four states of tune. Both entry-level versions, dubbed P360 and P400, boast 48-volt mild-hybrid designs, and while we can’t be sure if either will make it across the Atlantic to our port of entry, we can be certain that all three mild-hybrid six-cylinder diesel engines, named D250, D300 and D350, won’t be sold here.

Two plug-in hybrid drivetrains provide up to 113 km of EV range

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Optimal 4×4 capability comes standard across the Range Rover Sport line.

A more likely base engine in our market is the P440e, which incorporates an electric motor powered by a 38.2-kWh battery for a total of 434 net horsepower and a claimed zero to 100 km/h acceleration time of 5.8 seconds. Alternatively, or possibly offered as an option, a higher output version of the same engine gets the P510e moniker due to its larger 105kW electric motor, which along with the same 38.2-kWh battery provides net output of 503 horsepower and a standstill to 100 km/h sprint time of 5.4 seconds.

Both full-hybrid power units provide up to 113 kilometres (70 miles) of zero local emissions EV range in optimal conditions, or an expected real-world range of 88 km (54 miles), which, says Land Rover, is “enough for most owners to complete up to 75 percent of journeys on electric power.” Additionally, the two plug-in hybrid power units allow for up to 740 km (460 miles) of combined gasoline and electric range, making long uninterrupted road trips easier, plus you’ll be doing less damage to the environment than the previous model (and many competitors) thanks to CO2 emissions rated at just 18g per km.

Ultimate performance is still available by opting for a twin-turbo V8 or upcoming EV

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The Sport’s optional 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 makes 503 hp.

If you like your Range Rover Sport with unadulterated V8 power, rest assured the redesigned gen-3 version won’t disappoint. This said the current model’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 will not be available any longer, instead replaced by a new 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged mill that promises even stronger performance in non-SVR trim.

As it is, Land Rover’s press release gave no mention of the Sport’s SVR upgrade package, so it will most likely be a late arrival. Instead, the only V8 mentioned makes 523 horsepower, which is up 5 hp from the current blown V8’s 518 ponies, and capable of a spirited 4.3-second dash from standstill to 100 km/h when launch control is engaged.

Of course, these output and performance numbers are still shy of the SVR’s 575-horsepower engine, so only time will tell if a more potent version of the twin-turbo V8 makes the cut for the top-line SVR variant, or possibly if the all-electric model, set to arrive for model-year 2024, receives the revered designation.

Range Rover Sport’s off-road capability second to none

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Did we mention the Sport should be brilliant off-road?

All powertrains come standard with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive featuring Land Rover’s award-winning Terrain Response, the latter now incorporating a road-focused Dynamic Mode alongside an updated Configurable Terrain Response system designed to tackle all types of off-road conditions, plus an innovative new Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control system designed to improve off-road capability while reducing driver fatigue when on the trail.

“New Range Rover Sport’s advanced chassis dynamics feed into its immense capability away from the tarmac, utilizing its hardware and software to full effect,” said Rory O’Murchu, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar Land Rover. “It is the first vehicle to feature our new Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control, which has been engineered to help drivers focus on steering the vehicle by providing consistent and comfortable progress across rough terrain.”

New Range Rover Sport to improve interior beyond the current model

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Inside, the usual leathers and woods will be available, but Land Rover has put a special focus on environmentally friendly materials too.

While some might find it hard to fathom a higher quality, more refined mid-size luxury utility than today’s Range Rover Sport, Land Rover promises improvements at every level.

While materials are said to upgraded, the focus has been more toward environmental friendliness than perceived quality. Its sustainable alternatives to leather, for instance, are dubbed Ultrafabrics and made from recycled polyurethane, plus finished in new Duo Tone colourways. Land Rover also makes available a unique textile trim option, which extends to the dashboard and door detailing. This said, Premium grained Windsor or even more supple Semi-Aniline leathers will still be on the menu, as will hardwoods, aluminum accents and more, but special Moonlight Chrome interior trim is new.

Land Rover goes big with digital displays

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
A big 13.7-inch driver’s display should make it easy to call up critical info.

Ahead of the driver is a very sizeable 13.7-inch digital driver’s display, while the similarly large and curved Pivi Pro infotainment system incorporates standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus a 3D surround overhead camera. Both systems also come with standard Software Over The Air updates, while Alexa is now part of the standard setup in all Land Rover vehicles.

“Living with the New Range Rover Sport couldn’t be easier thanks to its suite of connected technologies,” said Alex Heslop, Director of Electrical Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover. “Our award-winning Pivi Pro infotainment is at the heart of the experience and its haptic, curved floating touchscreen provides intuitive control of the vehicle systems. To help drivers maintain their focus, embedded Amazon Alexa voice AI is on hand, so customers can keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel while doing anything from setting the navigation and placing calls to selecting media sources.”

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
A large centre display incorporates Land Rover’s award-winning Pivi Pro infotainment system.

Additional standard Range Rover Sport features include a new set of high-performance Digital LED Headlights with Adaptive Front Lighting for seeing around corners, while new Low Speed Manoeuvring Lights improve visibility in parking lots and other closed, confined areas.

All Range Rover Sports also include deployable door handles with proximity sensing, soft door close and the ability to unlock when approaching, while Automated Walkaway Lock is also part of the standard package.

Plenty of features set the Range Rover Sport apart from competitors

award-winning Pivi Pro infotainment
A roomy interior for up to five adults comes standard.

Back inside, unique Range Rover Sport highlights include a Cabin Air Purification Pro system to clean the cabin environment, featuring PM2.5 filtration and nanoe X technology that goes so far as to reduce odours, bacteria and allergens, even airborne viruses as small as SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, a separate nanoe X unit gets fitted to the second row to provide more consistent air quality in both seating areas. An advanced CO2 Management function lets occupants purify the cabin ahead of a journey too, or alternatively while on the way.

The new Range Rover Sport’s Meridian Signature Sound System, on the other hand, incorporates the latest in Active Noise Cancellation technologies, plus up to 29 integrated audio speakers provide superb sound quality, some of which are hidden behind the textile of the rear doors and four others cloaked within the headrests to allow for “personal sound zones,” says Land Rover. The system incorporates a new subwoofer too, powered by a 1,430-watt amp.

Advanced driver safety also includes off-roading features

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Windsor and semi-aniline leathers are available, plus 22-way front seats with massage action and winged headrests.

Standard advanced driver safety and convenience features include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, a driver-attention monitor and adaptive cruise control, while front and rear parking sensors are also included. Unique to Land Rover, a special Wade Sensing feature helps when fording rivers, plus ClearSight Ground View and Manoeuvring Lights further enhance the Range Rover Sport’s off-road experience.

On the options list are 22-way power-adjustable, heatable and ventilated memory seats up front, featuring massage function and winged headrests. These flagship seats also provide a 31-mm increase in legroom and 20 mm of extra knee clearance, improving comfort and support whether on the road or trail.

Later this year, Land Rover will start producing the new 2023 Range Rover Sport at its Solihull manufacturing plant in the UK. By that time, or shortly before, we can expect an announcement about Canadian-market features, trims and pricing information, plus the ability to pre-order.

Globally, the new Range Rover Sport will be available in S, SE, HSE and Autobiography trims, plus a First Edition trim will be offered through its first year of production, boasting a “specially curated specification,” said Land Rover.

New Range Rover Sport Revealed (0:59):

New Range Rover Sport (15:14):

New Range Rover Sport Challenge with Jessica Hawkins (1:57):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Land Rover

Land Rover sold 686 examples of its Discovery in Canada from its first month of May 2017 to December of that year, increasing deliveries by 47.2 percent over the same seven months of 2016 when its mid-size…

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury Road Test

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
For 2018 we tested a Land Rover Discovery in top-line HSE Luxury trim and even more upscale options. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Land Rover sold 686 examples of its Discovery in Canada from its first month of May 2017 to December of that year, increasing deliveries by 47.2 percent over the same seven months of 2016 when its mid-size seven-passenger challenger was the extremely well-proven yet still cult favoured LR4. 

Guilty as charged, I’m part of that LR4 cult. Yet, its once traditional SUV shape has now become a radically unconventional box, and therefore it’s made way for an entirely new, thoroughly modernized, sleeker, sportier, and yes, now more conventional luxury SUV that has truly won me over, the new fifth-generation Discovery so much more livable than its predecessor it became plain silly to stay loyal to the old beast. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
Hardly short on size, the Discovery can seat up to seven adults in comfort. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Driving a regular route from my home in Richmond, BC to Vancouver, and less often across the Lions Gate Bridge to the North Shore mountains, it looks as if 600 of those 686 Discoverys found their way here, but no doubt a good assortment have been snapped up in other premium SUV hotspots around Canada as well. Either way the Discovery is gaining sales traction where the LR4 was losing ground, and that momentum should continue to pick up as more families realize this new kid on the luxury block is now available and that it’s well worth their attention. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The new Discovery pulls styling cues from the outgoing LR4, particularly its asymmetric liftgate design. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Despite only being in its second model year, the 2018 Discovery comes to market with some important updates to make sure such interested parties are as impressed as possible, starting with changes to its base SE trim that now gets a two-inch larger 10-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard equipment (don’t believe LR Canada’s website as it hasn’t been updated), a move that makes this display standard across the entire Discovery range. What’s more, autonomous emergency braking is standard too, while that base SE model now gets the optional advantage of Land Rover’s highly efficient Td6 six-cylinder turbocharged diesel. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
Available LED headlamps improve nighttime visibility and style. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The standard SE model’s improvements have pushed its base price up from $61,500 last year to $63,900 today, a difference of $2,400, but I’m sure most will agree that improved infotainment and potentially lifesaving advanced safety are well worth the extra cost. 

Moving up through the range, both HSE and HSE Luxury trims can now be upgraded with Land Rover’s new second-generation head-up display system, which was much appreciated in my tester, as well as a 12.3-inch configurable TFT primary gauge cluster. Additionally, the British brand’s innovative Activity Key is available for adventurous owners who’d rather leave their key fob safely and securely in their SUV while wearing a waterproof digital bracelet with proximity-sensing keyless access capability around their wrist. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
These 21-inch alloys are just one of many wheel options. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

My 2018 Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury tester came equipped with the more economical turbo-diesel, this engine’s very reasonable $2,000 increase making it financially justifiable due to fuel savings that should be recoupable over a few years of ownership. The numbers speak for themselves, with the alternative powerplant good for a claimed 11.2 L/100km in the city, 9.0 on the highway and 10.2 combined, compared to 14.7 city, 11.2 highway and 13.0 combined with the base gasoline-powered V6. Depending on how much you drive, the annual savings could be in the high hundreds. On that note both look downright stingy compared to the old LR4, which was soldiering along with a five-cycle Transport Canada rating of 16.2 city, 12.1 highway and 14.3 combined before its era came to a complete stop last year. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
Sharp looking LED taillights improve response time to reduce the chance of being hit from behind. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Like with all diesel powerplants, high-speed thrust gets traded for low-speed twist, the base 3.0-litre supercharged V6 good for 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque compared to 254 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque for the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, while both come mated to a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power down to all four wheels via Land Rover’s renowned Terrain Response off-road system. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
When upgraded with its optional trailering package the Discovery can tow up to 3,720 kg. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

A noticeable difference between the two engines is off the line jump, with the gasoline-powered base engine putting more power down faster for a quicker 7.1-second sprint to 100km/h, and the turbo-diesel taking a full second longer to achieve the same result, at 8.1 seconds. Unless you’re always in a hurry or simply enjoy the occasional (or regular) adrenaline rush that comes when dashing away from stoplights this one-second discrepancy won’t be an issue, as both provide plenty of highway passing power and can cruise at speeds up to 209 km/h (130 mph). 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The Discovery makes considerable improvements over its LR4 predecessor in both luxuries and conveniences. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I happen to like the leisurely lope of a diesel and fully appreciate their savings at the pump, and I must say the Td6 performed flawlessly throughout my test, just like the 2017 Discovery Td6 I spent a week with last year. The two SUVs were optioned out similarly too, both in top-tier HSE Luxury trim, albeit this latest one finished in $870 Santorini Black instead of $870 Indus Silver, while improved with a few more upscale goodies as well. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The Discovery HSE Luxury is filled with padded leather-lined goodness, rich hardwoods, and top-tier electronic interfaces. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

My previous tester was missing this 2018 model’s $1,740 optional 21-inch alloys that look superb and enhance lateral grip, while additional enhancements included some chrome edging on the otherwise body-colour door handles, a $2,350 Drive Pro package that builds upon the aforementioned standard Autonomous Emergency Braking system by adding Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist, Blind Spot Monitor with Reverse Traffic Detection, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keep Assist, a Driver Condition Monitor and Traffic Sign Recognition with an Adaptive Speed Limiter, the Drive Pro upgrade automatically necessitating the addition of $190 worth of auto-dimming side mirrors, which are always welcome during night driving. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The standard gauge cluster gets a large colour multi-info display at centre, while a full TFT package is available. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Additionally, my 2018 Discovery tester included a $2,040 optional rear seat entertainment system that features dual 8.0-inch monitors on the backsides of the front headrests, instead of last year’s left-side tablet holder and right-side coat hanger, plus a DVD changer, a really fancy looking remote, two WhiteFire digital headphones, and a secondary device interface on the backside of the front console (joining another one housed within that console) that gets fitted with two HDMI slots and two USB ports. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The stunning centre stack features a standard 10-inch touchscreen with navigation, plus two-, three-, or four-zone auto HVAC. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

This latest Disco also came with a power-folding seat system that’s capable of automatically lowering and/or raising individual sides of the 50/50-split third row as well as either the 60 or 40 percent portion of the second row, or both simultaneously, this standard on HSE Luxury trim. What’s more, you can also power all seats up and down via the infotainment system or a smartphone app. This is the best of such systems I’ve ever experienced, and as helpful as the obvious convenience this provides, it goes about its business quickly compared to other powered seat systems I’ve used. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
This sensational navigation system is standard. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Right next to these buttons is switchgear for the powered liftgate and unique powered tailgate, the latter a beautifully finished carpeted shelf that folds down to provide a convenient place to load up to 300 kilograms (661 lbs) of heavier items on before sliding them inside the sizeable cargo hold, while it also stops items from falling out when opening the liftgate, important being that cargo has a habit of shifting during travel. And by the way, if upgraded to the available air suspension, which comes standard with HSE Luxury trim, you can lower the rear of the SUV via that panel of buttons to make the tailgate’s lift-over height a bit easier to deal with. Either way the Discovery provides 980 litres (34.6 cubic feet) of cargo space behind the third row, 1,231 litres (43.5 cubic feet) aft of the second row, and 2,500 litres (88.3 cubic feet) with both rear rows lowered. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
A highly visible backup camera with dynamic guidelines is standard, with the option of an overhead parking system. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Both 2017 and 2018 models came with sumptuous Ebony (black) Windsor leather upholstery thanks to HSE Luxury trim, the more conventional choice from four total colourway options that include a Glacier (light grey) and Ebony split, a caramel coloured Vintage Tan and Ebony split, and a Nimbus (light beige) and Ebony combination, but take note this year’s Ebony interior adds a touch of class by including Nimbus piping, which matches the same coloured standard headliner (an Ebony headliner is $410 extra), while standard open-pore Natural Shadow Oak veneer warmed up both cabins. Inlay options include no-cost Dark Satin Brushed Aluminum and Natural Charcoal Oak, while High Gloss Charcoal Oak adds $620 to the bill. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The eight-speed automatic transmission is put into play via this rotating dial, while manual shifts come via steering wheel paddles. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The 2018 model was devoid of side steps, making the reach up a bit more of a stretch, and didn’t come with the $310 optional 360-surround overhead parking aid, but its $1,940 7 Seat Luxury Climate Comfort package was a major bonus as it boasts 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, heated and cooled front and second-row outboard seats, heatable third row seats, and four-zone climate control with a comprehensive interface added to the backside of the front console. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
These 16-way powered seats are incredibly adjustable, while even including relaxing massage action. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Some other features found on both SUVs included a $410 set of black roof rails, $140 for lane departure warning, and $110 for cabin air ionization, while this 2018 model included a $1,020 head-up display that projected speed, gear selection, and navigation directions onto the windshield, $410 for Advanced Tow Assist that literally backs the Discovery up to a trailer for you, which made the $670 Tow Equipment package prerequisite, upping trailering capacity to 3,720 kg (8,201 lbs), plus a $1,275 Capability Plus Package featuring All Terrain Progress Control (ATPC), Terrain Response 2, and an Active Rear Locking Differential. All of these extras increased the price of my tester to $93,360 before freight and fees, which is $29,460 more than the base Discovery yet starting to approach full-size Range Rover levels of features and functions for a fraction of that model’s $113,000 starting price. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
A panoramic sunroof comes standard, albeit the front pane is powered on upper trims. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I bring up the big Range Rover because this new Discovery and that legendary luxury utility share the same underpinnings, as does the mid-size Range Rover Sport. This means the brand’s Integrated Body Frame (IBF) platform architecture has made way for an all-aluminum monocoque body shell and aluminum suspension design, allowing 480 kilos (1,058 lbs) less curb weight than the LR4. As you can likely imagine the new Discovery is not only more efficient than its predecessor, as noted earlier, but a great deal more enjoyable to drive. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
Second-row roominess and comfort is impressive, while the outboard seats can be heated and cooled. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

While the base SE comes standard with a fully independent coil-spring suspension setup and 19-inch alloys, my tester’s aforementioned 21s benefited from an air suspension upgrade that as mentioned comes standard with HSE Luxury trim. This made the most of the new Discovery’s lighter curb weight for an altogether more agile SUV, with sportier response during fast-paced curves that was especially noticeable when the weight shifted amid transitional corners. Of course, the Discovery remains a large SUV that’s never going to feel as athletic as something smaller like the Discovery Sport or Range Rover Evoque, but basing the new model on the same architecture as the amazingly capable Range Rover Sport has done wonders for the Disco, while it bodes well for a future SVR version of the latter. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
Rear seat entertainment: for the kids or the parents? (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

On that note I didn’t have opportunity to test the 2018 Discovery’s ability off pavement, but having driven other SUVs based on this architecture through mud, muck and over sand and rock I can only imagine it holds its own and then some. The Discovery includes the Land Rover brand’s legendary full-time four-wheel drive system featuring a locking centre differential and optional rear locking diff, which as mentioned was included with my loaner, while its driver selectable Terrain Response system makes choosing the ideal setup for a given road/trail condition ultimately easy. Basically, Terrain Response provides a rotating dial for selecting Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl, while the upgraded Terrain Response 2 allows the vehicle to sense and adjust the driveline setup to best respond to changing conditions automatically. That’s my kind of off-roading. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The backside of the front console can be had with dual-zone HVAC controls for second-row passengers, and much more. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

A compliant suspension is especially important when crawling over rocks and stumps, but it can be just as useful when trying to negotiate some of the back alleyways in my city. Whether blaming constant construction or sheer neglect, the Discovery’s air suspension made potholes and bumps less intrusive than they’d otherwise be, while good sound deadening and plenty of soft synthetic surfaces kept noise, vibration and harshness levels to a minimum. Still, a full-size Range Rover it’s not, which can be said of any SUV, as the priciest Landy would be my choice when it comes to full-on luxury. Considering the savings, however, the Discovery is finished very well, and once again better than its forebear. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The second-row seats slide forward for easy access to the rearmost row. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

What’s more, the seats were sensational, and not just the aforementioned massage function. Easy to set up for my body size and shape as well as various preferences like squab height and angle, seatback angle and more, they were inherently comfortable, plus on top of this I was able to power-adjust the side bolsters to snuggly pinch my backside, and manually adjust the headrest via airline-style butterfly wings. The Discovery provides ample steering wheel reach as well, powered in HSE trims and above, so my long-legged, short-torso frame was able to fit in ideally for optimal comfort and control. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The third row is quite roomy, even large enough for medium-sized adults. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

All switchgear, which is very high in quality, was easy to reach, including the infotainment touchscreen, which I must say is an impressive high-resolution system with beautiful depth and contrast of colours, superb graphics and functions galore, one of my favourite features being the sonorous 14-speaker 825-watt Meridian audio system. Without getting granular, some HSE Luxury features not yet mentioned include that stereo, a heatable steering wheel, heated second-row seats, a standard third row for seven-passenger occupancy, extended stitched leather on the dash top and door uppers, interior mood lighting, chromed outer door handles, fog lamps, a high and low range two-speed transfer case, and more. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
The second and third rows power down and back up again. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Features pulled up from lesser trims include LED headlights with signature DLRs, 20-inch alloys, tri-zone auto climate control, in-dash storage behind the climate-controls (it actually powers open), satellite radio, front seat memory, the powered panoramic sliding moonroof (the base SE gets a fixed panoramic sunroof), hardwood inlays, front parking sensors, the powered inner tailgate and more from the HSE, plus proximity keyless access, pushbutton ignition, an electromechanical parking brake, power-folding heatable side mirrors with approach lights, rain-sensing wipers, a colour TFT multi-information display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, navigation, the InControl Remote phone app, Wi-Fi (for up to eight devices), a garage door opener, overhead sunglasses storage, a foot-activated powered gesture tailgate, hill descent control with off-road ABS, Hill Launch Assist, Gradient Acceleration Control (GAC), all the usual active and passive safety features, and more from the base SE. 

2018 Land Rover Discovery Td6 HSE Luxury
Cargo space is not an issue. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I haven’t mentioned half of what’s standard or available, but suffice to say the 2018 Land Rover Discovery provides even more value within its mid-size luxury segment than the 2017 version, combined with excellent build quality, two highly efficient yet formidable powertrains, much improved high-speed handling, unsurpassed off-road performance, confidence-inspiring standard and optional safety, and the list goes on. Being an adventurer at heart I find it very easy to recommend.

Britain’s Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) group is on an unprecedented growth curve, mostly due to an obsession with filling gaps in its portfolio. The most noticeable additions include three new Jaguars, namely…

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380 Road Test

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
This 2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380 is no dark horse despite its all-black paint scheme. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Britain’s Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) group is on an unprecedented growth curve, mostly due to an obsession with filling gaps in its portfolio.

The most noticeable additions include three new Jaguars, namely the XE compact sedan, F-Pace compact SUV, and all-new E-Pace subcompact SUV. Being that Land Rover is purely a sport utility brand and therefore won’t built cars (although the Evoque Convertible gets pretty close), its growth has come by adding namesake models in market segments previously held only by Range Rovers, and vice versa. A few years ago we saw the Land Rover Discovery Sport enter the compact SUV segment that only had the Range Rover Evoque prior to that, albeit half a size smaller, and now the new Range Rover Velar enters the same compact SUV segment, although it’s half a size larger. This, plus a completely reimagined mid-size Land Rover Discovery, has seen the brand’s Canadian sales grow by 78 percent since that aforementioned Discovery Sport arrived, whereas Jaguar has seen its numbers rise by 266 percent over the same period, for a collective 155 percent gain since 2014 began and 2017 ended.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
We love the Velar’s curvaceous design, and so do leagues of luxury shoppers, evidenced by its newfound popularity. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As far as new model expansion goes, Land Rover could stop right here at the Range Rover Velar and I’d be more than satisfied. They probably won’t, as there’s room below the Discovery Sport for a smaller entry-level Land Rover and above the full-size Range Rover (at least for a third row), but it’s difficult to imagine them topping the Velar in the compact luxury segment.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The new Velar fits into the compact luxury SUV segment, but it’s a bit larger than average. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Compact? Yes the Velar, like the Jaguar F-Pace it shares chassis architectures and drivetrains with, is large enough that it borders on mid-size. It measures 4,803 millimetres (189.1 inches) in length with a 2,874-mm (113.1-inch) wheelbase, 1,665 mm (65.5 inches) tall and 2,145 mm (84.4 inches) wide with its mirrors extended, while its track spans 1,642 mm (64.6 inches) up front and 1,657 mm (65.2 inches) at the back. That makes it slightly longer and taller than the F-Pace, albeit a smidge narrower, with its wheelbase identical and track fractionally wider, yet it’s 76 mm (3.0 inches) shorter than the mid-size Range Rover Sport overall, with a 49-mm (1.9-inch) shorter wheelbase, 138-mm (5.4-inch) lower height, 75-mm (2.9-inch) narrower width, and 51/29-mm (2.0/1.1-inch) narrower front/rear track. I could go on comparing, but suffice to say the Velar is considerably larger than the Discovery Sport and much smaller than the mid-size Discovery, which itself is quite a bit larger than the Range Rover Sport. Compact it is.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
These LED headlights with LED signature DLRs come standard. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The $62,000 Velar also fills a dollar void in the Range Rover lineup between the $49,990 Evoque and the $78,800 Sport, albeit my Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380, at $82,600 before adding options, goes well past that base Range Rover Sport.

As JLR fills the “white spaces” in each brand’s lineup, it has gone to great lengths to separate mere luxury from best-by-a-long shot status. The Land Rover brand is being positioned as the most entry-level of the three, although it still sits squarely within the luxury sector, while Jaguar is skewed slightly higher, albeit less about off-road and more toward on-road performance. This leaves Range Rover where it’s always been most comfortable, combining equally high levels of on- and off-road capability with extreme luxury.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The R-Dynamic Black package turns the Velar’s trim into a menacingly dark affair. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

From outside the Velar looks every bit the part of a sleek, wind-cheating modern-day Range Rover, my all-black R-Dynamic HSE P380 tester certainly seeming more to do about go-fast performance than rock crawling and mud slinging. Of course, that’s the way we see most Range Rovers that drive by, despite their terrain conquering legend. True to reality my tester was kept to tarmac, this Velar’s optional glossy black-painted 22-inch multi-spoke alloys on 265/40 Continental CrossContact LX Sport performance rubber better suited to lanes confined by painted lines and guardrails than trees on one side and cliffs to the other.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
Land Rover charges an extra $2,040 for these 22-inch glossy black alloys when added to the R-Dynamic HSE P380. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Climb inside and you’ll quickly appreciate that nothing else in the compact luxury SUV segment comes even close. This is where I should probably point out that my R-Dynamic HSE came standard with a fully configurable driver display, which adds brilliantly bright high-resolution colour instrumentation to each side of a massive multi-info section, the latter looking fabulous when filled with the navigation system’s digital map. While impressive, the Velar has left every competitor behind including familial brands when it comes to centre stack displays.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
When approaching, these door handles automatically power out from their otherwise flush-mounted door panels. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Yes, the word displays is plural for a reason, the Velar infused with the new InControl TouchPro Duo infotainment system. The topmost 10.2-inch widescreen monitor is amongst the industry’s best for clear, crisp quality and graphical stimulation, even canting towards the driver upon startup, but it’s the secondary display, integrated within the sloping console’s mid-section, that truly wows. Along with its inclusion of climate and seat controls plus plentiful vehicle settings such as the SUV’s Terrain Response system, it minimizes switchgear and thus cleans up the interior design, the result more Scandinavian than Volvo, and I mean that in a good way. There are knobs, two for the HVAC system and one for audio volume, but most everything else is under glass, so to speak, the fourth dial for gear selection in recent JLR tradition.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The slim-line LED taillights feature a smoked effect that looks fabulous against the Velar’s black paintwork. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Traditional for Range Rover, the quality of everything is beyond reproach. Go ahead and try to find any hard substandard plastics, you’ll come up short. Rather, much of the dash, instrument panel, centre stack/lower console sides, door panels, etcetera are covered in padded and stitched leathers, while the luxury sector’s usual soft-touch synthetics, brushed, patterned and bright metals, plus rich lacquered inlays are tastefully applied throughout, albeit higher grades of each than average. As usual for Range Rover the Velar also offers an abundance of colour, trim and finishing choices inside and out, this important for a product that’s as close to bespoke as the luxury segment gets. After all, personal expression is a key ingredient of top-tier luxury.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The Velar provides the compact luxury SUV segment’s best (by far) interior. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

So is getting comfortable, and the Velar offers a wide variety of front seat options to do so. Perforated grained leather is standard, although my tester came dressed up in softer Windsor hides with attractively patterned perforations, while the only sin of omission Range Rover makes with respect these otherwise inherently comfortable 10-way powered perches is a lack of front seat heaters in extreme base trim (which your dealer would never order). This is what happens when you get your playbook from the U.S., but to our advantage front seat memory is standard, while seat heaters are $510 options with rear warmers added for another $510 or, better yet, front cooling seats for just $310 more. Before getting bogged down in minutia I’ll leave the price of every upgrade, or for that matter the itemization of any such upgrades, to someone else, and rather focus in on the SUV at hand.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
There’s so much leather goodness inside, not to mention superb metal artisanship, best-in-class digital displays, and the list goes on. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As noted earlier, Land Rover provided my Velar tester in R-Dynamic HSE P380 trim, which from a comfort perspective (the HSE part) means that standard items found on the $62k base Velar S, such as 19-inch five-spoke alloys, colour multi-information display amid analogue gauges, grained leather, 10-way memory seats, 11-speaker Meridian audio, and more gets enhanced with 21-inch 10-spoke alloys (which once again were replaced on my tester), the 12.3-inch high-definition Interactive Driver Display noted earlier, the supple Windsor leather mentioned a moment ago, yet more comfortable 20-way front seats with the addition of standard heat and cooling functions plus (ahhh) massage, which was wonderfully relaxing, and six more side and rear speakers plus a dual channel subwoofer and Trifield technology for the Meridian audio system.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
This configurable digital gauge cluster is standard in HSE trim, and a really handy addition when using navigation. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Other items pulled up from base to HSE trim include LED headlights with signature DRLs and auto high beams, auto-dimming and power folding, heated side mirrors with approach lights, proximity access, pushbutton ignition, an electromechanical parking brake, rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a garage door opener, a sliding panoramic glass sunroof, voice activation, a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, rear parking sensors, Navigation Pro GPS with brilliantly detailed mapping plus the ability to actually learn your regular routes and then update with traffic and ETA info as needed, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), a powered gesture liftgate, and the list goes on and on.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The Velar’s cascading dual display infotainment system is over-the-top impressive. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Some features found on the HSE that are optional with the base model include larger 350-mm front brakes, front parking sensors, a power-adjustable steering column, bright metal pedals, adaptive cruise control with queue assist and intelligent emergency braking, blindspot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, reverse traffic detection, driver condition monitoring, traffic sign recognition and adaptive speed limiter, and park assist.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The top screen incorporates one of the better navigation systems in the industry, plus myriad other functions. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Thanks to dazzling Santorini Black paint, an R-Dynamic Black package, the aforementioned all-black wheels, chromed IP cap ends (yes, you can even dress it up where you can’t see when the doors are closed), configurable ambient interior lighting, a heatable steering wheel rim, heated rear seats, a head-up display, four-zone auto climate control with cabin air ionization and a cooled glove box, sensational sounding 23-speaker Meridian Signature 3D audio, a Convenience package with handy rear seat remote release levers, a cargo net, and a useful Activity Key wristband that lets you leave your keys in the car while engaging in activities that might put losing your keys at risk, an On/Off-Road package with upgraded Terrain Response 2, All Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) and Configurable Dynamics, and an Active Locking Rear Differential to enhance off-road capability, the price was bumped up to just over $96k before adding freight and fees.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
Amongst other features, the secondary display boasts gorgeous visuals depicting the Velar overcoming various Terrain Response road/trail conditions. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Of course you can add plenty more, with items still available including myriad alloy wheels, roof rails and cross-members, a heated windshield, illuminated treadplates and cargo sill, cargo storage rails, premium floor mats, plenty of hardwood, metal and piano black lacquered inlay options, extended leather, unique Dapple Grey wool seat and armrest upholstery developed by Danish textile supplier Kvadrat (they also supply to premium furniture brands Knoll and Vitra), Suedecloth steering wheel rim and headliner, satellite radio, dual 8.0-inch rear entertainment monitors on the backside of each front headrest with a DVD changer, and a Tow Package with a hitch receiver, fixed rear recovery eye, Advanced Tow Assist that automatically steers in order to control the position of the trailer when backing up (allowing 2,500 kilograms/5,500 lbs of trailer weight), and a surround camera system (the latter available as a standalone option as well), etcetera. Finally, $95k First Edition trim (limited to just 50 units in Canada) adds unique exterior and interior treatments to the R-Dynamic HSE P380.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The HSE model’s 20-way powered front seats incorporate a massage function that really relaxes. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Knowing the Velar shares aluminum-intensive underpinnings with the Jaguar F-Pace and more so that my R-Dynamic P380 tester is dynamically similar to its British cousin’s quickest combination, titillates the senses before even setting out. After all, the fastest F-Pace S is one energetic performer with particularly athletic road manners, so it only makes sense that the identically formidable Velar should deliver the same results. On paper that’s mostly true, other than 0.2 seconds added to the more opulently attired Range Rover that sprints to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds instead of 5.5. Considering the Velar’s dramatically improved interior and greater assortment of standard features I’m just fine with that, the difference so nominal it would take some pretty sophisticated timing hardware and a side-by-side drag race to confirm, while each model’s top speed of 250 km/h is out of the question on Canada’s public roads so it’s a moot discussion, but really the more blatant differentiator is the way each SUV goes about delivering its performance.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
This massive power-sliding panoramic sunroof comes standard across the entire Velar line. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Where the F-Pace S is a rasping, growling menace to society that purposefully embraces the F-Type sport car’s track-conquering pedigree, the Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380 is an altogether quieter, more refined, more sophisticated experience. As noted by the numbers, either version of JLR’s 3.0-litre supercharged V6 gets up and goes as if shot from a catapult, 380 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque fed through an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters more than enough for these grand albeit still compact SUVs, but the Range Rover flies forward with an entirely new level of grace and composure.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
Rear seat roominess and comfort is amongst the best in the compact luxury SUV class. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Likewise, it’s as wonderfully agile through complex S-turns as it’s capable of putting hundreds of miles of fast-bending freeway in the rearview mirror, its driver and occupants oftentimes left more comfortable, relaxed and downright refreshed (thanks to those massaging seats) than before they started, or at least that was my experience.

This is high-speed motoring at its best, and while I never had opportunity to test its off-road mettle I’m willing to guess the Velar is every bit the low-speed adventurer that its older, larger siblings are. Aforementioned Terrain Response lets you dial in performance settings based on any number of road/trail and weather conditions, while its available air suspension (standard with the P380) adds 46 millimetres (1.8 inches) of ride height for more extreme 4×4 situations. It’s a dream around the city too, easy to negotiate in congested traffic and nicely sized for parking, while its excellent visibility helps to see over surrounding cars.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
Of course a powered rear liftgate comes standard, with proximity-sensing control no less. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Those less interested in straight-line performance and more concerned with economy will appreciate that Land Rover employs its in-house designed and built 2.0-litre Ingenium turbo-diesel as standard equipment, good for a reasonably paced 8.9-second run to 100km/h thanks to 180 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, plus a claimed 9.2 L/100km in the city, 7.8 on the highway and 8.5 combined, whereas the sportier alternative uses a still reasonable 13.0 L/100km city, 10.0 highway and 11.6 combined thanks to fuel-saving auto start/stop that shuts the engine off when it would otherwise be idling, and other efficiency systems.

2018 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE P380
The Velar incorporates optimal 40/20/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, plus optional levers on the cargo sidewalls to automatically drop them down. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Speaking of efficiency, the Velar’s large compact dimensions make for five-seat comfort in all positions, while 558 litres (19.7 cubic feet) of cargo space behind the rear seats (or 673 litres/23.7 cubic feet when measuring above the cargo cover) is good for the class. Also helpful, the rear seatbacks fold in the most convenient 40/20/40 configuration, allowing longer cargo like skis down the middle with passengers in the more comfortable (and in my tester’s case, heated) window seats, while there’s up to 1,985 litres (70.1 cubic feet) of available cargo space when they’re laid completely flat via those handy optional levers noted earlier.

Land Rover has thought of everything with the new Range Rover Velar, making it my choice for best compact luxury SUV in Canada. It’s suitably the priciest, but in this case it’s worth every penny.

Just because the Discovery Sport is Land Rover’s entry-level model and one of the lowest priced compact luxury SUVs in Canada, don’t expect it to be common. Along with plenty of eye-catching style,…

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE Road Test

With a base price of just $43,500 plus freight and fees the 2018 Discovery Sport is Land Rover's entry-level SUV, not to mention one of the most affordable luxury sport utilities available in Canada.

On the flip side it's the compact luxury SUV segment's most accommodating offering, thanks to a spacious interior with up to three rows of seats for a maximum of seven occupants, while all of its rivals seat just five. What's more, with 981 litres (34.6 cubic feet) of cargo capacity behind its rear seatbacks the Discovery Sport is best in class (by a long shot) for hauling gear. That second row is divided in the usual 60/40 configuration, but unlike many in this class a large centre pass-through creates a 40/20/40-split that's ideal for loading longer items like skis down the middle while those in back enjoy greater comfort from the outboard seats.

With 947 millimetres (37.3 inches) of second-row legroom the Discovery Sport is also one of the more comfortable for rear passengers, Read Full Story
Once again Land Rover has earned “Best Premium Brand” in the U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards, this 2018 recognition being the fifth of such awards bestowed on the British luxury sport utility brand.…

Land Rover brand and four models earn ALG Residual Value awards

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport
Land Rover has once again earned “Best Premium Brand” in the ALG Residual Value Awards, while this 2018 Discovery Sport won “Best Premium Compact Utility.” (Photo: Land Rover)
Once again Land Rover has earned “Best Premium Brand” in the U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards, this 2018 recognition being the fifth of such awards bestowed on the British luxury sport utility brand. ALG is considered an industry benchmark for residual value forecasting and other types of depreciation data, in both the U.S. and Canada. Of note, last year Land Rover earned the same award for the Canadian market by taking home a Residual Value Award in every segment it competed in, 2017 being its third consecutive win. The third-party analytical firm has yet to announce its Canadian results, but Land Rover’s success in the U.S. is newsworthy just the same.
2018 Land Rover Discovery
The new Discovery won ALG’s “Best Premium Mid-Size Utility 3rd Row Seating.” (Photo: Land Rover)
As part of its 2018 Best Premium Brand win, Land Rover’s U.S. division was awarded top accolades in four separate categories including “Best Premium Compact Utility” for the Discovery Sport, “Best Premium Mid-Size Utility 2nd Row Seating” for the Range Rover Sport, “Best Premium Mid-Size Utility 3rd Row Seating” for the new Discovery, and “Best Premium Full-Size Utility” for the full-size Range Rover. This is the eleventh consecutive year for the ultra-popular Range Rover Sport to take home its award, making it an excellent bet for premium SUV buyers who want to retain as much value as possible in their new vehicle purchase after three years of ownership.
2018 Range Rover Sport
The Range Rover Sport has won “Best Premium Mid-Size Utility 2nd Row Seating” for the 11th time in a row. (Photo: Land Rover)
The annual ALG Residual Value Awards are given to a vehicle based on its predicted ability to retain its original price after three years of purchase. Awards are meted out in 26 categories, while one mainstream volume brand (Subaru for 2018 in the U.S. and 2017 in Canada) and one premium luxury brand get overall awards too. “Land Rover continues to push the envelope with innovative new products, and design and technology that keeps the brand at the front of the pack in the competitive luxury utility space,” said Jim Nguyen, president of ALG. “Consumers have responded to Land Rover leadership with demand that continues to outpace supply, resulting in top residual values in the premium space.” ALG award winners are chosen after carefully studying all the competitors in each category, including their historical performance and industry trends. Other deciding factors include model and brand quality, production levels relative to market demand, plus pricing and marketing strategies.