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Land Rover Range Rover Sport TDV6 Diesel (A) Review
11 May 2012|14,634 views
The Royal Family, soccer players making multi-million dollar deals with clubs, beers going at the cheapest prices possible along cobblestone streets and weathered mansions with terracotta roofs and small square windows. It's the way of living at its finest (though it isn't for some) but this isn't the UK. It's sunny Singapore, where HDB flats are abundant and cars are packed back to back like cans of sardines at the NTUC Fairprice shelves.
That's how you'd feel every time you pressed the start button in the Range Rover Sport. It's the kind of vehicle that had more of what you would euphemistically call 'character'. It almost translates as a feeling of relief every time you get behind the wheel. I could go on and on about the feeling of sipping that Glenlivet 21 Years while smoking the Cuban cigar with the Rangie but I'd rather not digress.
The Rangie Sport made its first appearance sometime back in 2005 based on the Range Stormer concept and although critics were sceptical of the brand's Sport model when it saw light, the car slotted neatly into the stable and remains to be one of the most exclusive SUVs on our roads.
It's unlike any BMW X5s or Audi Q7s for that matter. While there's no denying that Range Rover has difficulties preserving itself as the original premium SUV in Singapore, no thanks to the marque's competitors, the Sport you see here remains a head turner.
Exterior
The sheet metal of the model tested here hasn't changed much. In fact, comparing to the previous model that we tested, the RR Sport hasn't changed anything.
That's how you'd feel every time you pressed the start button in the Range Rover Sport. It's the kind of vehicle that had more of what you would euphemistically call 'character'. It almost translates as a feeling of relief every time you get behind the wheel. I could go on and on about the feeling of sipping that Glenlivet 21 Years while smoking the Cuban cigar with the Rangie but I'd rather not digress.
The Rangie Sport made its first appearance sometime back in 2005 based on the Range Stormer concept and although critics were sceptical of the brand's Sport model when it saw light, the car slotted neatly into the stable and remains to be one of the most exclusive SUVs on our roads.
It's unlike any BMW X5s or Audi Q7s for that matter. While there's no denying that Range Rover has difficulties preserving itself as the original premium SUV in Singapore, no thanks to the marque's competitors, the Sport you see here remains a head turner.
Exterior
The sheet metal of the model tested here hasn't changed much. In fact, comparing to the previous model that we tested, the RR Sport hasn't changed anything.
 |
On first glance, the full-size SUV appears upmarket and posh without losing its appeal for aggression. As a matter of fact, unlike any of its peers that are available in the market now, this mother of all SUVs has a well-defined character of machismo and prestige that will probably give curious onlookers the temptation to glance at the driver - just so that they can console themselves that not all Range Rovers are hunks and badasses.
The Sport may be tickled with mere minor changes but the signature squarish shape that's somehow awfully likeable is essentially unchanged. The main tweaks are the front two-bar grille as well as the lights. Both front and rear LED lamps are now cleaner and fuss-free in style, with the classy back-to-the-roots Rangie circular shapes and daytime running lights.
Squatting at 4,783 (L) x 2,004 (W) x 1,789 (H), the full-sized SUV governs pretty much everything in its path. Just the mere size alone emphasises on its ability to regulate the traffic flow for the driver. Slower vehicles travelling on the first lane would be scrambling out of the way when the stonking planted ride is tearing up the roads from behind. In an era where most drivers are selfishly hogging the first lane for space comfort, we reckon it isn't such as bad idea.
 |
Circular lamps are now cleaner and fuss-free in style According to Range Rover, there are a couple of changes that have yet to be rolled out yet for the Sport (at the moment, these changes can only be seen on the Evoque). Badges reflecting Land Rover will be changed to Range Rover and the badge that you see on the two-bar grille will also be taken out once the changes are implemented. Perhaps in this ever-competitive industry, subtle cosmetic and technical updates will be able to keep cars alive and kicking and Range Rover is, slowly but steadily, taking the right step towards that.
Interior
Changes are more evident on the inside. For starters, the conventional gear lever has been replaced with the rotary gear shift selector that was first implemented in the Jaguar and is now one of the most influential elements in the rest of the models in the Land Rover Range Rover line-up. On the contrary, the rotary dial that was used to toggle the Terrain Response System has been replaced with buttons (just like the Evoque), incorporating a sleeker appearance that would not look out of place in a Range Rover.
A little time needed to get use to the rotary gear selector The array of technologies may sound a tad intimidating but the bold technology that RR has developed takes on a simpler meaning, especially when compared to Audi's rather confusing Multi Media Interface (MMI) or BMW's iDrive. Its unparalleled attention to details and experience-enhancing features like the 7-inch touch screen simply aim to please.
Other than these tickling tweaks, the obvious bias towards the grandeur levels of luxury have always been a welcome note. The cabin of the Sport continues to provide a level of comfort and opulence that remains true to Rangie's roots, thanks to the abundance of plush wood and upmarket leather trimmings.
An extremely comfortable interior that sports top notch materials
Space wise, the RR Sport is more than capable of hauling five adults and taking their luggage with ease. While the boot space isn't class-leading, the rear seats can be folded to transform the trunk capacity into a load-lugger of generous proportions.
For drivers, the high seating position is a helpful hand, especially for shorter drivers like this writer. Even at its highest position, the driver gets a good view of the bonnet and road ahead without compromising on the headroom. As a result, you get a feeling you're about to pilot a much smaller vehicle when behind the wheel of this titanic of a car.
But what really stood out for us was the excellent Harman Kardon surround sound system on board. The list of long features often associated with luxury cars can sometimes be disappointing without a head-banging stereo system. Man, with all his bravado and exploration, is always the one who enjoys having a solid sound system blasting his favourite tunes when driving behind the wheel of what is a powerful car. Best part of it? We enjoy doing it when we're driving alone. So should the time calls for you to pose as a rocker inside the car, the 11-speakers blasting songs from Guns and Roses, Def Leppard and Led Zepplin won't stop to surrender.
Other than these tickling tweaks, the obvious bias towards the grandeur levels of luxury have always been a welcome note. The cabin of the Sport continues to provide a level of comfort and opulence that remains true to Rangie's roots, thanks to the abundance of plush wood and upmarket leather trimmings.
An extremely comfortable interior that sports top notch materials Space wise, the RR Sport is more than capable of hauling five adults and taking their luggage with ease. While the boot space isn't class-leading, the rear seats can be folded to transform the trunk capacity into a load-lugger of generous proportions.
For drivers, the high seating position is a helpful hand, especially for shorter drivers like this writer. Even at its highest position, the driver gets a good view of the bonnet and road ahead without compromising on the headroom. As a result, you get a feeling you're about to pilot a much smaller vehicle when behind the wheel of this titanic of a car.
But what really stood out for us was the excellent Harman Kardon surround sound system on board. The list of long features often associated with luxury cars can sometimes be disappointing without a head-banging stereo system. Man, with all his bravado and exploration, is always the one who enjoys having a solid sound system blasting his favourite tunes when driving behind the wheel of what is a powerful car. Best part of it? We enjoy doing it when we're driving alone. So should the time calls for you to pose as a rocker inside the car, the 11-speakers blasting songs from Guns and Roses, Def Leppard and Led Zepplin won't stop to surrender.
 |
The Drive
The end result of the two added gears is a more rounded and smoother performance on the road. The used-to-be six-speed automatic CommandShift has been upgraded to a new ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. Together with Rangie's low-flow fuel injection system, the RR Sport is the perfect synthesis of superior performance, driving pleasure and fuel efficiency.
On the move, there are absolutely no signs of the clattering despite its hind badge that signifies its appetite for industrial-sounding liquid. The 3.0-litre V6, which is also equipped with the parallel sequential turbocharging system, is at the heart of the RR Sport and it'll readily pump out a muscular 256bhp and a mountain moving 600Nm of torque. While throttle response sports a little lag time, acceleration on the straights impresses.
Paddle shifters available for more enthusiastic drivers to 'meddle' with
Still, unlike its bigger and stronger 5.0-litre V8 brethren, the 3.0-litre powerplant you see here isn't so much about its remarkable acceleration. Instead, it's more of the delivery of a refined and cosseting driving experience. The speedometer goes north so effortlessly and quietly that you would have to steal a glance at the speedo just to check that you're not way above illegal speed limits.
The end result of the two added gears is a more rounded and smoother performance on the road. The used-to-be six-speed automatic CommandShift has been upgraded to a new ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. Together with Rangie's low-flow fuel injection system, the RR Sport is the perfect synthesis of superior performance, driving pleasure and fuel efficiency.
On the move, there are absolutely no signs of the clattering despite its hind badge that signifies its appetite for industrial-sounding liquid. The 3.0-litre V6, which is also equipped with the parallel sequential turbocharging system, is at the heart of the RR Sport and it'll readily pump out a muscular 256bhp and a mountain moving 600Nm of torque. While throttle response sports a little lag time, acceleration on the straights impresses.
Paddle shifters available for more enthusiastic drivers to 'meddle' with Still, unlike its bigger and stronger 5.0-litre V8 brethren, the 3.0-litre powerplant you see here isn't so much about its remarkable acceleration. Instead, it's more of the delivery of a refined and cosseting driving experience. The speedometer goes north so effortlessly and quietly that you would have to steal a glance at the speedo just to check that you're not way above illegal speed limits.
Round the bends, the English SUV retains its ability to resist the roll well. Considering its size, that's no easy feat. Credit goes to the Adaptive Dynamics system which continuously adapts to surface conditions to ensure you get the optimal riding experience. Coupled with a direct and accurate steering (though a little too light for our liking), handling and controlling the two and half tonne machine is a walk in the park.
Speaking of weight, after spending a day with the RR Sport and driving like a maniac in most instances, it's economical considering how much weight it's hauling. Although we couldn't meet the 8.8L/100km as stated on paper, we recorded a 9.0L/100km without having the need to be light-footed.
Conclusion
Truth is - the Range Rover Sport is an extremely capable vehicle. Not only does it drive and handle like a car, it'll be capable of taking on the rough stuff anytime of the day.
With the special tax for Euro 5 compliant diesel cars being revised with effect from 1st January 2013, fans of Rangie will have yet another reason to have this car in mind when it comes to car shopping.
Speaking of weight, after spending a day with the RR Sport and driving like a maniac in most instances, it's economical considering how much weight it's hauling. Although we couldn't meet the 8.8L/100km as stated on paper, we recorded a 9.0L/100km without having the need to be light-footed.
Conclusion
Truth is - the Range Rover Sport is an extremely capable vehicle. Not only does it drive and handle like a car, it'll be capable of taking on the rough stuff anytime of the day.
With the special tax for Euro 5 compliant diesel cars being revised with effect from 1st January 2013, fans of Rangie will have yet another reason to have this car in mind when it comes to car shopping.
The Royal Family, soccer players making multi-million dollar deals with clubs, beers going at the cheapest prices possible along cobblestone streets and weathered mansions with terracotta roofs and small square windows. It's the way of living at its finest (though it isn't for some) but this isn't the UK. It's sunny Singapore, where HDB flats are abundant and cars are packed back to back like cans of sardines at the NTUC Fairprice shelves.
That's how you'd feel every time you pressed the start button in the Range Rover Sport. It's the kind of vehicle that had more of what you would euphemistically call 'character'. It almost translates as a feeling of relief every time you get behind the wheel. I could go on and on about the feeling of sipping that Glenlivet 21 Years while smoking the Cuban cigar with the Rangie but I'd rather not digress.
The Rangie Sport made its first appearance sometime back in 2005 based on the Range Stormer concept and although critics were sceptical of the brand's Sport model when it saw light, the car slotted neatly into the stable and remains to be one of the most exclusive SUVs on our roads.
It's unlike any BMW X5s or Audi Q7s for that matter. While there's no denying that Range Rover has difficulties preserving itself as the original premium SUV in Singapore, no thanks to the marque's competitors, the Sport you see here remains a head turner.
Exterior
The sheet metal of the model tested here hasn't changed much. In fact, comparing to the previous model that we tested, the RR Sport hasn't changed anything.
That's how you'd feel every time you pressed the start button in the Range Rover Sport. It's the kind of vehicle that had more of what you would euphemistically call 'character'. It almost translates as a feeling of relief every time you get behind the wheel. I could go on and on about the feeling of sipping that Glenlivet 21 Years while smoking the Cuban cigar with the Rangie but I'd rather not digress.
The Rangie Sport made its first appearance sometime back in 2005 based on the Range Stormer concept and although critics were sceptical of the brand's Sport model when it saw light, the car slotted neatly into the stable and remains to be one of the most exclusive SUVs on our roads.
It's unlike any BMW X5s or Audi Q7s for that matter. While there's no denying that Range Rover has difficulties preserving itself as the original premium SUV in Singapore, no thanks to the marque's competitors, the Sport you see here remains a head turner.
Exterior
The sheet metal of the model tested here hasn't changed much. In fact, comparing to the previous model that we tested, the RR Sport hasn't changed anything.
|
On first glance, the full-size SUV appears upmarket and posh without losing its appeal for aggression. As a matter of fact, unlike any of its peers that are available in the market now, this mother of all SUVs has a well-defined character of machismo and prestige that will probably give curious onlookers the temptation to glance at the driver - just so that they can console themselves that not all Range Rovers are hunks and badasses.
The Sport may be tickled with mere minor changes but the signature squarish shape that's somehow awfully likeable is essentially unchanged. The main tweaks are the front two-bar grille as well as the lights. Both front and rear LED lamps are now cleaner and fuss-free in style, with the classy back-to-the-roots Rangie circular shapes and daytime running lights.
Squatting at 4,783 (L) x 2,004 (W) x 1,789 (H), the full-sized SUV governs pretty much everything in its path. Just the mere size alone emphasises on its ability to regulate the traffic flow for the driver. Slower vehicles travelling on the first lane would be scrambling out of the way when the stonking planted ride is tearing up the roads from behind. In an era where most drivers are selfishly hogging the first lane for space comfort, we reckon it isn't such as bad idea.
|
Circular lamps are now cleaner and fuss-free in style According to Range Rover, there are a couple of changes that have yet to be rolled out yet for the Sport (at the moment, these changes can only be seen on the Evoque). Badges reflecting Land Rover will be changed to Range Rover and the badge that you see on the two-bar grille will also be taken out once the changes are implemented. Perhaps in this ever-competitive industry, subtle cosmetic and technical updates will be able to keep cars alive and kicking and Range Rover is, slowly but steadily, taking the right step towards that.
Interior
Changes are more evident on the inside. For starters, the conventional gear lever has been replaced with the rotary gear shift selector that was first implemented in the Jaguar and is now one of the most influential elements in the rest of the models in the Land Rover Range Rover line-up. On the contrary, the rotary dial that was used to toggle the Terrain Response System has been replaced with buttons (just like the Evoque), incorporating a sleeker appearance that would not look out of place in a Range Rover.
A little time needed to get use to the rotary gear selector The array of technologies may sound a tad intimidating but the bold technology that RR has developed takes on a simpler meaning, especially when compared to Audi's rather confusing Multi Media Interface (MMI) or BMW's iDrive. Its unparalleled attention to details and experience-enhancing features like the 7-inch touch screen simply aim to please.
Other than these tickling tweaks, the obvious bias towards the grandeur levels of luxury have always been a welcome note. The cabin of the Sport continues to provide a level of comfort and opulence that remains true to Rangie's roots, thanks to the abundance of plush wood and upmarket leather trimmings.
An extremely comfortable interior that sports top notch materials
Space wise, the RR Sport is more than capable of hauling five adults and taking their luggage with ease. While the boot space isn't class-leading, the rear seats can be folded to transform the trunk capacity into a load-lugger of generous proportions.
For drivers, the high seating position is a helpful hand, especially for shorter drivers like this writer. Even at its highest position, the driver gets a good view of the bonnet and road ahead without compromising on the headroom. As a result, you get a feeling you're about to pilot a much smaller vehicle when behind the wheel of this titanic of a car.
But what really stood out for us was the excellent Harman Kardon surround sound system on board. The list of long features often associated with luxury cars can sometimes be disappointing without a head-banging stereo system. Man, with all his bravado and exploration, is always the one who enjoys having a solid sound system blasting his favourite tunes when driving behind the wheel of what is a powerful car. Best part of it? We enjoy doing it when we're driving alone. So should the time calls for you to pose as a rocker inside the car, the 11-speakers blasting songs from Guns and Roses, Def Leppard and Led Zepplin won't stop to surrender.
Other than these tickling tweaks, the obvious bias towards the grandeur levels of luxury have always been a welcome note. The cabin of the Sport continues to provide a level of comfort and opulence that remains true to Rangie's roots, thanks to the abundance of plush wood and upmarket leather trimmings.
An extremely comfortable interior that sports top notch materials Space wise, the RR Sport is more than capable of hauling five adults and taking their luggage with ease. While the boot space isn't class-leading, the rear seats can be folded to transform the trunk capacity into a load-lugger of generous proportions.
For drivers, the high seating position is a helpful hand, especially for shorter drivers like this writer. Even at its highest position, the driver gets a good view of the bonnet and road ahead without compromising on the headroom. As a result, you get a feeling you're about to pilot a much smaller vehicle when behind the wheel of this titanic of a car.
But what really stood out for us was the excellent Harman Kardon surround sound system on board. The list of long features often associated with luxury cars can sometimes be disappointing without a head-banging stereo system. Man, with all his bravado and exploration, is always the one who enjoys having a solid sound system blasting his favourite tunes when driving behind the wheel of what is a powerful car. Best part of it? We enjoy doing it when we're driving alone. So should the time calls for you to pose as a rocker inside the car, the 11-speakers blasting songs from Guns and Roses, Def Leppard and Led Zepplin won't stop to surrender.
|
The Drive
The end result of the two added gears is a more rounded and smoother performance on the road. The used-to-be six-speed automatic CommandShift has been upgraded to a new ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. Together with Rangie's low-flow fuel injection system, the RR Sport is the perfect synthesis of superior performance, driving pleasure and fuel efficiency.
On the move, there are absolutely no signs of the clattering despite its hind badge that signifies its appetite for industrial-sounding liquid. The 3.0-litre V6, which is also equipped with the parallel sequential turbocharging system, is at the heart of the RR Sport and it'll readily pump out a muscular 256bhp and a mountain moving 600Nm of torque. While throttle response sports a little lag time, acceleration on the straights impresses.
Paddle shifters available for more enthusiastic drivers to 'meddle' with
Still, unlike its bigger and stronger 5.0-litre V8 brethren, the 3.0-litre powerplant you see here isn't so much about its remarkable acceleration. Instead, it's more of the delivery of a refined and cosseting driving experience. The speedometer goes north so effortlessly and quietly that you would have to steal a glance at the speedo just to check that you're not way above illegal speed limits.
The end result of the two added gears is a more rounded and smoother performance on the road. The used-to-be six-speed automatic CommandShift has been upgraded to a new ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. Together with Rangie's low-flow fuel injection system, the RR Sport is the perfect synthesis of superior performance, driving pleasure and fuel efficiency.
On the move, there are absolutely no signs of the clattering despite its hind badge that signifies its appetite for industrial-sounding liquid. The 3.0-litre V6, which is also equipped with the parallel sequential turbocharging system, is at the heart of the RR Sport and it'll readily pump out a muscular 256bhp and a mountain moving 600Nm of torque. While throttle response sports a little lag time, acceleration on the straights impresses.
Paddle shifters available for more enthusiastic drivers to 'meddle' with Still, unlike its bigger and stronger 5.0-litre V8 brethren, the 3.0-litre powerplant you see here isn't so much about its remarkable acceleration. Instead, it's more of the delivery of a refined and cosseting driving experience. The speedometer goes north so effortlessly and quietly that you would have to steal a glance at the speedo just to check that you're not way above illegal speed limits.
Round the bends, the English SUV retains its ability to resist the roll well. Considering its size, that's no easy feat. Credit goes to the Adaptive Dynamics system which continuously adapts to surface conditions to ensure you get the optimal riding experience. Coupled with a direct and accurate steering (though a little too light for our liking), handling and controlling the two and half tonne machine is a walk in the park.
Speaking of weight, after spending a day with the RR Sport and driving like a maniac in most instances, it's economical considering how much weight it's hauling. Although we couldn't meet the 8.8L/100km as stated on paper, we recorded a 9.0L/100km without having the need to be light-footed.
Conclusion
Truth is - the Range Rover Sport is an extremely capable vehicle. Not only does it drive and handle like a car, it'll be capable of taking on the rough stuff anytime of the day.
With the special tax for Euro 5 compliant diesel cars being revised with effect from 1st January 2013, fans of Rangie will have yet another reason to have this car in mind when it comes to car shopping.
Speaking of weight, after spending a day with the RR Sport and driving like a maniac in most instances, it's economical considering how much weight it's hauling. Although we couldn't meet the 8.8L/100km as stated on paper, we recorded a 9.0L/100km without having the need to be light-footed.
Conclusion
Truth is - the Range Rover Sport is an extremely capable vehicle. Not only does it drive and handle like a car, it'll be capable of taking on the rough stuff anytime of the day.
With the special tax for Euro 5 compliant diesel cars being revised with effect from 1st January 2013, fans of Rangie will have yet another reason to have this car in mind when it comes to car shopping.
Photos by Julian Kho
Car Information
Land Rover Range Rover Sport Diesel 3.0D (A)
CAT B|Diesel|10.9km/L
Horsepower
183kW (245 bhp)
Torque
600 Nm
Acceleration
9.3sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Land Rover Range Rover Sport Diesel
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