- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
5.0SC, 8 cyl.
- Engine Power
405kW, 680Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (95) 13.8L/100KM
- Manufacturer
4XD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
3 Yr, 100000 KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
Range Rover Sport SVR quick spin review
What is it?
The first offering from Jaguar Land Rover's new Special Vehicle Operations department. The British brand wants to compete against the likes of Mercedes-AMG, BMW M, Porsche and Maserati with a range of high-performance machines across both brands.
What it isn't?
Superficial. The Special Vehicle Operations team have looked at every major element of the Range Rover Sport to make it sportier and more dynamic including the drivetrain, suspension, body and interior.
What does it say about me?
That you like standing out from the crowd. The SVR has a road presence that its German rivals can't match.
Who else is buying it?
Celebrities seem to flock to Range Rovers and the SVR will be no different. Most likely because its the top of the range so people will buy it because it is the most expensive, most prestigious and fastest member of the Sport family.
What colours does it come in?
There are eight body colours to choose from, and if you pick any other than black you can opt to get the roof done in that colour to contrast with the body.
If it were a celebrity, who would it be?
James Bond. Just like the fictional British secret agent the SVR is sophisticated, muscular and purposeful.
Why would I buy it?
Because it manages to combine a spacious, luxury SUV with genuine performance car credentials.
Does it cost too much?
In keeping with its place at the top of the tree, the SVR isn't cheap at $224,500 (plus on-road costs). That's a lot more than something like a BMW X5 M ($185,900 plus on-roads) but it does undercut traditional sports sedans like the BMW M5 ($229,930), Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S ($250,930) and Maserati Quattroporte GTS ($319,800), which offer similar performance and less interior space.
Is it safe?
It's got the full complement of airbags and ABS as well as stability control. Disappointingly, given its price, the SVR misses out on the latest active safety features including forward collision warning, lane departure warning and blind spot warning. They are not even available as optional extras. This is despite a high price tag and the availability on some rivals; in some cases as standard features.
Will it get me noticed?
It's unique SVR bodykit gives the already stylish Sport a more muscular appearance that helps attract looks. But what really turns heads is the soundtrack from the supercharged V8 that makes an old-school growl that sounds like a thoroughbred sports car, not an SUV.
How's the cabin ambience?
In a word: opulent. The design and finish of the interior elevates it above its German rivals with a level of luxury few cars can match. Genuine leathers, metals trims and even splashes of carbon fibre are used throughout to give it a luxurious and sporty feel. There is good space too, front and rear, to give you an even greater feeling of luxury.
What's the stereo like?
It's an 825-watt 19-speaker Meridian sound system which produces plenty of power. It's almost as good as the engine!
Does it go?
The engine has a bite to match its bark. Despite being a large SUV, the SVR can launch from 0-100km/h in just 4.7seconds. It has excellent pulling power with its hefty 680Nm of torque available from 2500rpm.
Does it like corners?
Its cornering prowess belies its size. The suspension offers good control and there is plenty of grip from the big tyres. Stopping power is impressive with 380mm discs up front courtesy of Italian specialists Brembo. The steering is nicely weighted and reasonably direct for an SUV, but needs more feedback to be considered best-in-class.
What about bumps?
Range Rover has mastered the black art of combining excellent handling with a comfortable ride. Despite the 21-inch alloy wheels the ride is never harsh and even though it is an SUV it doesn't feel floaty or wallowy in the corners.
What about service stations?
You'll be on good terms with the clerk at your local servo. Officially it is rated at 13-litres per 100km on the combined cycle. But drive around town and expect that figure to reach the high teens. And if you really give the engine free reign don't be surprised if it creeps into the 20s.
Would you buy one?
Personally, I'd buy it in a heartbeat. The Range Rover Sport SVR blends luxury and performance with the brands ironically British style. It may not be the best value or most powerful performance SUV on the market but it has the most emotional appeal.
What else should I consider?
If you like to look at more rational criteria the BMW X5 M has more power, more torque and more equipment, as well as being $38,500 cheaper.
Porsche has a range of Cayenne's that offer sports car performance in an SUV body, from the $154,600 GTS to the $233,300 Turbo. And Mercedes-AMG will soon add the new GLE63 to its range later in 2015.
The Spin
"The fastest Land Rover ever."
The Translation
Forget approach angles and wading depth, this one is all about lap times.
2015 Range Rover Sport SVR pricing and specifications
Price: $224,500 plus on-road costs
On sale: Now
Engine: 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol
Power: 405kW at 6500rpm
Torque: 680Nm at 2500rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic; AWD
Fuel use: 13.0L/100km