Land Rover Range Rover Sport

Unlike the previous generation which tried too hard to be sporty, this redesigned Range Rover Sport narrows the gap compared to the Range Rover in terms of luxury and refinement. It is quick with its standard turbo and supercharged six-cylinder engine. Handling is capable, and the ride is comfortable and composed even with the optional 22-inch tires. The cabin is impressively quiet and the seats are very comfortable, but the controls are not intuitive. Additional powertrains include a mild-hybrid, a plug-in hybrid with a claimed 48-mile electric-only range, and a twin-turbo V8. All use a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic. An EV version joins the lineup for 2024. AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW are standard.

Shorter, lower, sportier, and more affordable than its Range Rover sister, the Range Rover Sport trades some of the ride comfort of its sister ship for outstanding performance on pavement. Remarkably, it does so while holding on to the off-road capability expected of a Range Rover. An aluminum unibody makes this version lighter than its predecessor, which improves performance and fuel economy. Supercharging was introduced for the V8 engine and a supercharged V6 engine option was added. Though well equipped in its base configuration, blind spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system are highly recommended options. The 2016 update brought a diesel powerplant and handsfree operation for the tailgate.  2018 model brings updated exterior and interior, featuring the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system. For 2019, an inline six-cylinder engine replaces the original V6. Also, a plug-in hybrid version is new. Other new features include Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility.

This version of the Range Rover Sport is actually based on the Land Rover LR4 rather than the high-end Range Rover. A luxurious midsized SUV, the five-passenger interior is festooned with leather, wood trim, and luxury amenities, including active cruise control and rear-seat DVD entertainment screens. A 4.4-liter V8 is standard, while a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 is optional. While competent enough, the heavy Range Rover Sport lacks the sporty handling of some of its key competitors. Off-road capability is acceptable, although the 19-inch tires don't lend themselves to that task. The 2010 update brought new 5.0-liter V8 engines.