The Range Rover celebrated its 40th birthday this year, nine of which have been clocked up by the current iteration. Much has changed since our original road test of it in 2002, and with the latest ‘2011 model year’ updates to the interior and powertrain, we thought it worth revisiting.The big news is a new 4.4-litre V8 diesel engine, which replaces the 3.6-litre TDV8 and promises a 15 per cent increase in power and 19 per cent reduction in fuel consumption. This is mated to a ZF-sourced eight-speed torque converter automatic, which retains both low and high ratios.
Land Rover continues to improve the Range Rover’s already sumptuous cabin. In 2010 it gained hi-tech multi-function TFT dials (similar to those now used in the Jaguar XJ) and, mindful of the chauffeuring needs of emerging markets, Land Rover added reclining rear seats.
After 40 years, the biggest threat facing the Range Rover comes not from a rival car, but from social acceptance and environmental pressures. Does a new engine go far enough to keep it relevant?
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