The 10 Second Review
The Range Rover P440e PHEV showcases remarkable engineering prowess. While serving as a luxurious sedan during extended trips, it also possesses the capability to navigate mountainous terrain when required. Furthermore, it can cover a distance of approximately 100 kilometers on pure electric power.
The driving experience is superb, and the functionality of all car controls is seamless, avoiding the common annoyances of touchscreen user interfaces and intrusive safety system interventions found in many modern vehicles.
This highlights the significant evolution of Range Rovers, especially the considerable increase in off-road comfort and convenience.
Pros
- Attractive Styling
- Super Smooth Ride
- Plush Interior
- Long Electric Range
Cons
- Unnecessary Body Roll
- Not as light as it looks
The In-Depth Review
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 139bhp electric motor is paired with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine in the P440 PHEV. This combination results in a total output of 440bhp and an impressive 600Nm of torque, accessible across the entire rev range from just 1,000rpm. The substantial torque surge provides a surprisingly brisk sensation when accelerating, whether in urban settings or on faster roads.
While the official 0-100km/h time is 5.3 seconds, the acceleration is more characterized by its smooth and sustained nature rather than being overly aggressive. Given its status as a luxury SUV, the Sport aspect takes a somewhat secondary role. Consequently, the noise from the petrol engine tends to be subdued, although there’s a desire to hear a bit more of its delightful sound at higher revs. During lower-speed acceleration, the electric motor takes charge, with the petrol engine seamlessly coming into play as it hits its optimal performance level.
The battery pack on the Range Rover can charge from 0% to 80% in just 43 mins using DC Charging, a great reason to keep that pesky fuel consumption at bay!
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Range Rover Sport’s interior design embodies minimalism, featuring a scarcity of physical buttons and switches, resulting in a sleek and unified look across the cabin. Buyers have the option of selecting either recycled textile or authentic leather upholstery, available in appealing two-tone designs.
The dark-tinted chrome accents add a notably premium touch. Standard features include power-adjustable front seats, while an optional upgrade offers chairs with up to 22 ways of adjustability, along with massage, ventilation, and winged headrests. Additionally, an integrated air purification system is offered, aiming to reduce odors, bacteria, viruses, and allergens within the cabin.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The dashboard of the Range Rover Sport boasts ample digital space, featuring a sizable 13.1-inch curved touchscreen for infotainment functions and an even more extensive 13.7-inch screen positioned in front of the driver for displaying gauges. Land Rover’s Pivi Pro interface represents the company’s most advanced in-car infotainment system to date.
However, based on our experience with it in other models like the Defender and the Discovery, it does have some idiosyncrasies. Nevertheless, the displays are sharp and clear, presenting a premium appearance as they gracefully hover above the upholstered dashboard of the Range Rover Sport. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with Amazon’s Alexa in all Range Rover Sports. A wireless smartphone charging pad is seamlessly integrated on a shelf just below the infotainment screen. For those seeking an enhanced audio experience, an optional 29-speaker Meridian stereo system is available, featuring speakers in both the front and rear headrests of the Range Rover Sport.
Price tested at AED 572,000
“A lighter, more agile version of the big boy Range Rover!”
