- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 4 seats
- Engine
4.4DTT, 8 cyl.
- Engine Power
250kW, 740Nm
- Fuel
Diesel 8.7L/100KM
- Manufacturer
4XD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
3 Yr, 100000 KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
Range Rover SVAutobiography quick spin review
What is it?
Range Rover's response to the Bentley Bentayga. Having had the top-end of the SUV market much to itself until now Range Rover faces new competition from British brand Bentley.
What it isn't?
Light on luxury. having used its range-topping Autobiography as the starting point Range Rover's new Special Vehicle Operations division has added even more standard equipment to make the SVAutobiography its most opulent SUV offering.
What does it say about me?
That you want the finest things in life but not at any cost, as the SVAutobiography offers up more value for less money than the Bentley.
What colours does it come in?
Whatever colour you want. There are 17 standard colours to choose from for no extra cost, but if you're happy to spend extra you can get something unique from SVO or select the unique Duo Tone paint job (Range Rover's terminology for a two-tone scheme).
If it were a celebrity, who would it be?
Sir Paul McCartney. Working-class roots but now capable of mixing in high society and still blessed with the ability to match it with any newcomer.
Why would I buy it?
Because it is Range Rover at its best. The big difference between the Bentayga and SVAutobiography is this comes full loaded with very few options to consider. Range Rover has thrown as many standard luxuries as it can at this model, so all you really have to do is pick your favourite colour.
Does it cost too much?
It;s hardly cheap but when compared to the Bentley the SVAutobiography actually makes a strong value argument.
Is it safe?
It comes fully loaded on the safety front too, with all Range Rover has to offer. That not only includes the ubiquitous airbag protection but also the latest in active safety including adaptive cruise control, autonomous braking function and blind spot monitoring. You also get surround view cameras as standard to make parking safer and easier.
Will it get me noticed?
Not like a Bentayga. Because the Range Rover has been around for decades, the SVAutobiography lacks the newness/X-factor appeal of the Bentley.
Any gadgets I can brag about?
Does it ever. The back seats are like travelling in First Class with a pair of reclining seats, TVs, retractable desks with tablet holders and chilled holder for bottles and a pair of glasses.
How's the cabin ambience?
Opulent beyond anything else in the class. Of course it has the usual leather and wood trim but it is the attention to detail that sets it apart. For example, there is milled aluminium trim highlights for various elements including the surround of the starter button and even on the key fob. It is those small touches that elevate it above the rest of the Range Rovers.
What's the stereo like?
The SVAutobiography comes standard with Range Rover's top stereo, a 1700-watt Meridian signature sound system. It's a $7790 option on the rest of the range. As you'd expect it is an excellent audio system with good power and excellent clarity.
Does it go?
It may be big and fully loaded with luxuries but thanks to the twin-turbo diesel V8 under the bonnet it has no trouble getting moving. With 740Nm of torque it accelerates briskly from standstill or on the move. It is the definition of effortless performance.
Does it like corners?
Weighing more than two tonnes it is hardly a corner-carver, but it does feel solid and stable on the road. The steering is responsive and the handling is nice and predictable, so even though it is large it never feels unwieldy.
What about bumps?
What bumps? The Range Rover is still a capable off-roader despite its shiny wheels so it has no trouble soaking up any bumps in the road. It is a plush ride to match the sophisticated nature of the car.
What about service stations?
The other benefit of picking the diesel V8 over the petrol, aside from its enormous levels of torque, is its fuel consumption benefits. Officially it has a claimed combined cycle return of 8.6-litres per 100km. While we didn't get a chance to take it for a long highway run our urban driving returned 11.5L/100km, which is a match for its city cycle claim.
Would you buy one?
In a heartbeat. This is one of the most luxurious, comfortable and capable cars I have ever driven. The attention to detail from Special Vehicle Operations is a match for anything its rivals can offer.
What else should I consider?
The Bentley Bentayga is really the only thing that compares at the moment. While it is arguably a more prestigious badge and will turn more heads it is more expensive, less well equipped and physically smaller than the Range Rover.
The Spin
"The pinnacle of refined capability."
The Translation
We've thrown everything we have at this one.
2016 Range Rover SVAutobiography SDV8 price and specifications
Price: From $342,910 plus on-road costs
Engine: 4.4-litre V8 turbo diesel
Power: 250kW at 3500rpm
Torque: 740Nm at 1750-2250rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Fuel use: 8.6L/100km