Land Rover Range Rover Sport SUV-2014

PREVIEW

Although off-road capabilities have always been part of the Range Rover Sport's appeal, owners of this midsize luxury SUV typically spend more of their time driving in town than they do fording streams or climbing over rocks. The first-generation Sport catered to that reality, as it was more on-road-focused than its bigger brother, the Range Rover.

But the original Range Rover Sport was very heavy, even by SUV standards, and that dragged down fuel mileage and kept it from feeling truly sporty around turns. Moreover, while its interior was nice enough, it wasn't as richly furnished as some rivals in this class. The company has addressed all these issues in the fully redesigned 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport. It should be right up your alley if you're looking for a do-it-all utility vehicle loaded with high-end ambience.

The improvements on the 2014 Range Rover Sport begin with a significant diet. Thanks to a new all-aluminum chassis shared with the standard-size Range Rover, it has lost some serious weight -- around 400 pounds according to our scales. This, along with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, results in higher fuel economy ratings. And if the supercharged V8 is still too thirsty for you, there's a new supercharged V6 that provides solid performance and even better mpg.

In spite of its weight loss, the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is actually longer and wider than its predecessor. This has opened up more passenger room in the cabin and allowed Land Rover to offer a third-row seat in this model for the first time. The third row is just for children, and small ones at that, but it broadens the Range Rover Sport's appeal in this class, as competitors like the BMW X5 and Lexus GX 460 also offer seven-passenger seating.

Land Rover has also applied many of the Range Rover Evoque's design cues to the new Sport, which looks sleeker and more expensive than before. Looks do not deceive either, as the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport costs quite a bit more than the BMW, the Lexus and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Only the X5 will keep up with the Range Rover Sport on a curvy road, though.

Stiff competition also comes from the 2014 Porsche Cayenne, which costs about the same as the Land Rover when comparably equipped. The Porsche lacks the Range Rover Sport's third-row seat and off-road capability, but offers a wider range of engine options and is one of the best-handling SUVs known to man. As is often the case, your decision will hinge on your priorities. If you're expecting your next midsize luxury SUV to accompany you on all of life's adventures regardless of the terrain, the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport should be on your list of candidates.

FEATURES

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a midsize five-passenger SUV. An optional third-row seat increases capacity to seven. It's available in two trim levels: SE and Supercharged.

Standard features on the SE trim include 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, power-folding heated mirrors, a self-leveling air suspension, front and rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, keyless ignition/entry, 14-way adjustable power front seats, front seat memory settings, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. Also standard are a voice-controlled navigation system, an 8-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with a 10-CD changer, auxiliary audio jack and USB/iPod integration.

The HSE option package adds 20-inch wheels, foglights, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded perforated leather upholstery, wood or metal interior trim and heated front seats.

The Supercharged trim level includes all of the standard SE and HSE equipment, plus a V8 engine; a more sophisticated four-wheel-drive system (with low-range gearing and a rear limited-slip differential); an upgraded suspension with both adaptive damping and roll stabilization; and steering-wheel paddle shifters for the transmission.

Adding the Autobiography package provides 21-inch wheels, adaptive headlights with automatic high-beam control, 14-way adjustable ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, an upgraded instrument panel, three-zone climate control, a front-console cooler compartment, a surround-view camera system, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, and a 19-speaker Meridian sound system with satellite and HD Radio.

Many of the items in the Autobiography package are available in smaller option packages on other Range Rover Sports. The Climate Comfort and Visibility package for the SE bundles the adaptive headlights, heated front and rear seats, and heated steering wheel. A more elaborate version of this package for the HSE and base Supercharged trim has all of the above equipment, plus 14-way adjustable power heated front seats and the front-console cooler, while the Luxury Climate Comfort and Visibility package provides all of that plus ventilated rear seats and four-zone climate control (these items can purchased separately for the Range Rover Sport Autobiography). The 19-speaker Meridian audio system is available on all these trims as well, and HSE, base Supercharged and Autobiography models are also eligible for a 23-speaker Meridian surround-sound system.

The Vision and Convenience package for the SE, HSE and base Supercharged model combines the surround-view camera system, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts and an automated parallel-parking system. The parking system is a stand-alone option for the Autobiography. Base versions of the Supercharged model can be equipped with the Dynamic package, which includes 21-inch wheels, perforated leather upholstery, upgraded instrumentation and various cosmetic upgrades.

A third-row seat is optional on all versions of the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, and on the base SE, it's paired with 20-inch wheels. Stand-alone options for all trim levels include 22-inch wheels, all-speed adaptive cruise control with emergency braking, a rear entertainment system and a towing package (late availability).

INTERIOR

Overall, the interior feels much higher-end than the previous Range Rover Sport's cabin. Land Rover has eliminated the questionable plastic pieces, and the abundant leather surfaces and wide variety of interior customization options make the 2014 Range Rover Sport feel more sophisticated and worthy of its lofty base price.

The highly adjustable front seats are comfortable and provide plenty of support. You sit lower than you do in the standard Range Rover and the center console is higher, too, adding to the "cockpit" feel, but visibility is still excellent for an SUV. The pop-up gear selector knob from the previous Sport has been replaced by a conventional shifter on the console, and V8 models have paddle shifters mounted on the back of the steering wheel. The electronics interface can seem a little dated compared to some rival systems, but overall it's pretty easy to use.

The third row of seating is only intended for use by small adults or children, as the legroom is quite tight. And when you don't need the space for passengers, folding the rear seats flat is an easy one-button affair. Cargo capacity remains low for this class, with 27.7 cubic feet of space behind the second row and a maximum volume of 62.2 with the second-row seats folded.

UNDER THE HOOD

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is available with two supercharged engines. Standard on all SE models is a 3.0-liter V6 rated at 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. Range Rover Sport Supercharged models come with a 5.0-liter V8 that develops 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

All Range Rover Sport models also come with full-time four-wheel drive, hill descent control, hill start assist and Land Rover's Terrain Response system. The SE comes standard with a light-duty, single-speed 4WD system, while the Supercharged model is equipped with a two-speed transfer case that provides high- and low-range gearing for more serious off-roading. This system is optional on SE models. Terrain Response features driver-selectable modes and optimizes the vehicle's powertrain, suspension and electronics for increased traction in gravel, snow, mud, sand and on rocks. Supercharged models have an additional dynamic mode that optimizes handing on pavement.

At the Autoexpress test track, a Range Rover Sport Supercharged sprinted from zero to 60 in a blistering 4.6 seconds. Land Rover claims the V6 will perform the same test in 6.9 seconds. EPA fuel economy estimates for the V6 version are 19 mpg combined (17 city/23 highway), while the V8 is rated at 16 mpg combined (14 city/19 highway). These estimates are average among comparable V6- and V8-equipped midsize luxury SUVs. A properly equipped Range Rover Sport with either engine can tow up to 7,700 pounds.

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Land Rover Range Rover Sport SUV-2013

PREVIEW

It's been said that of all of the capable off-road SUVs sold over the last decade, few have had anything other than pavement under their tires. Perhaps this is why the 2013 Land Rover Range Rover Sport exists. While Land Rover strives to blend serious all-terrain talent with transcendent luxury, the Range Rover Sport represents a shift away from the untamed wilds and toward civilization.

Despite the name, the Range Rover Sport is not simply an adaptation of the range-topping Range Rover. Instead, the Sport is built on the now-discontinued Land Rover LR3 platform and, as a result, is smaller than its namesake and lacks some of its all-terrain prowess. For the rare driver who actually needs some of these capabilities, however, the Range Rover Sport is still much more proficient off-road than pretty much anything in the luxury segment.

With features like full-time four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, ascent and descent controls and an electronic locking rear differential, the Range Rover Sport certainly has the credentials to conquer most obstacles that would leave lesser SUVs stranded.

Being that it's more city- and luxury-focused, though, the Range Rover Sport is more at home on the highway, and in that regard, it excels. Refinement permeates the cabin, isolating passengers from the outside world in a silent cocoon of rich leather and wood, complete with all of the technological marvels expected of all top-tier luxury vehicles. Unfortunately, it's not without a few faults, either. While the raised rear seats allow for a commanding view of the road, headroom is compromised. Then there's Land Rover's reputation for poor reliability that should give any buyer some pause.

The 2013 Lexus LX 570, on the other hand, is known for its bulletproof reliability and off-road prowess, though it lacks the Range Rover's panache. If you're in the majority of shoppers who will rarely, if ever, venture off the highway, we would suggest taking a look at the 2013 BMW X5, Infiniti QX and 2013 Porsche Cayenne. For the weekend outdoorsman who still pines for British opulence, however, the 2013 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is the rare beast that can tackle it all.

FEATURES

The 2013 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a five-passenger SUV available in HSE and Supercharged trim levels.

The HSE comes standard with 19-inch wheels, a sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, foglights, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, an adjustable air suspension with adaptive damping, keyless entry/ignition, a power tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, power front seats with driver memory settings, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, wood interior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system with off-road tracking, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a rearview camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and information controls, and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with CD player, auxiliary jack and USB/iPod integration.

An optional Luxury package adds 20-inch wheels, a heated windshield, heated washer jets, heated front and rear seats, available piano black trim, premium leather upholstery, driver seat bolster adjustments and a cooler box.

The Supercharged model includes all of the above plus a more powerful engine, steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, Brembo front brakes, an upgraded adaptive suspension system (which enhances both on- and off-road handling), satellite radio and HD radio.

Opting for the Autobiography package (available only for the Supercharged model) adds adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, unique wheels, grille and exterior treatments, a rear roof spoiler, a 360-degree parking assist camera, upgraded leather and a premium 17-speaker surround-sound audio system.

Available for the HSE is a GT Limited Edition package that adds most of the features from the Autobiography package, along with a body kit, exclusive paint and faux-suede interior trim. A new Supercharged Limited Edition adds a few unique badges inside and out and available carbon-fiber interior trim.

A tow package and rear-seat entertainment system are available for all models, but adaptive cruise control is optional on the Supercharged only.

INTERIOR

One of the best features of any SUV is its commanding view of the road. The Range Rover Sport takes this a step further with elevated stadium-style seating for rear passengers, affording them the same view. And though headroom might be scant back there for taller passengers, they will enjoy the high-grade leather upholstery and elegant cabin accents that include wood or black lacquer accents.

Although the Range Rover Sport doesn't radiate the same Old World luxury charm as the more traveled top-line Range Rover, it still feels rich and contemporary. Its console and switchgear are thoroughly modern, as is its thin-film dash display, which presents essential -- and customizable -- driver and vehicle information through graphics and virtual gauges.

For a vehicle that leads its class on several counts, the Range Rover Sport rates only average in cargo capacity, with 71 cubic feet available. Its sloping rear window can also hamper the loading of bulky items.

UNDER THE HOOD

Range Rover Sport HSE models are powered by a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 375 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque. The Supercharged model churns out an impressive 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque from a supercharged version of that engine. Both engines are joined to a six-speed automatic transmission with three modes: Normal, Sport and Manual. In Autoexpress testing, a Supercharged model sprinted to 60 mph in a very quick 5.2 seconds.

All Range Rover Sport models feature full-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case and Terrain Response. The latter optimizes powertrain, suspension and electronics for increased traction in grass, gravel, snow, mud, sand and rocks. The Supercharged model also features a Dynamic Mode, tailoring the chassis and powertrain for more sporty and responsive on-road driving. Properly equipped, Range Rover Sport models can tow up to 7,700 pounds.

Fuel economy estimates for the HSE V8 are 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 15 mpg combined, while the Supercharged model rates an estimated 12/17/14 mpg.

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Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Convertible SUV-2015

PREVIEW

Wasn't hard to see this coming. The Baby Rover has been a breakout star for Land Rover, a relatively affordable gateway into the aura of British luxury and off-road tradition. We assume Land Rover allowed itself a window to weather any backlash from the compact hardtop before committing to the 2015 Evoque convertible. But the drop top got the green light, and not a moment too soon for sun-and-scene stations like Southern California, Miami and New York.

The Range Rover Evoque convertible will offer just two doors (the hardtop offers both two- and four-door configurations) and an electrically powered fabric top that folds beneath the Evoque's waistline for a clean top-down look. The fabric top and rollover protection mechanisms consume cabin space, however, limiting the convertible to just two rear passengers. The convertible doesn't incur a substantial weight penalty, however. It requires 165 pounds of structural reinforcement, says Land Rover.

The convertible will offer the same 240-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission as the standard car, although a nine-speed transmission under development could arrive in time for the Evoque convertible's launch. And while the standard Evoque features all-wheel drive and Land Rover's Terrain Response System for legitimate off-road capability, the convertible base model may come standard with front-wheel drive and leave the off-road chops as a premium upgrade.

Land Rover debuted the Evoque convertible concept at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show and suggested a 10-15 percent price premium over the hardtop. Look for the convertible to start at around $48,000 when it goes on sale, likely in the second half of 2014. Check back for a full review of the 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque convertible, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.

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Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SUV-2014

PREVIEW

Small, premium-brand crossover SUVs typically earn their keep as weekday commuter vehicles and weekend errand runners. The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is part of this category, but it hasn't fully given itself over to this pedestrian lifestyle. True, the Evoque is fuel-efficient and packed full of standard amenities that you'll enjoy on the drive to work. But at its heart, the 2014 Range Rover Evoque is a luxury crossover for shoppers who are more interested in making a fashion statement than installing a rear-facing car seat in the backseat.

This distinction is apparent the first time you lay eyes on the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque. It has the most striking exterior design of any compact luxury crossover, and if the four-door looks too utilitarian to you, this is the one of the few SUVs on the market that also comes in a two-door version: It's called the Evoque Coupe. Unfortunately, there's a price to pay for high style. Headroom and legroom are tight in the rear seat, and the dramatically sloping roof line imparts a semi-claustrophobic feel and impedes rear visibility. If you opt for the Evoque Coupe, the backseat becomes even less accessible. Further, cargo space is well below average for this class.

So apart from its fantastic styling, why else might you consider a Range Rover Evoque? Fuel economy is one big reason. Though the new nine-speed automatic transmission is only good for 1 extra mpg on the small Land Rover's EPA combined rating, 24 mpg combined is a great number for this class -- in fact, the Evoque is tops among gasoline-fueled small luxury crossovers. It's also rather enjoyable to drive, particularly if you value sporty handling and a fair bit of off-road capability. Don't expect to follow an original Range Rover down a trail, but know that the pretty Evoque is capable of tackling some rough terrain, thanks to its various electronic aids. On the other hand, the Evoque's stiff ride could be a turn-off for some shoppers (especially on models with the 20-inch wheels), while its four-cylinder engine is noisier than we'd like.

Of course, there are quite a few small luxury crossovers to consider in this price range. The 2014 Audi Q5 is one of our favorites, thanks to its diverse engine lineup and rich interior furnishings. Another fine pick is the 2014 BMW X3, which boasts two powerful engines, an athletic character and generous rear-seat room. Meanwhile, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 is the most fuel-efficient option in this class (it rates 28 combined with its optional diesel engine), while the 2014 Acura RDX has lots of interior space and a standard V6 engine. Although the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque certainly isn't the most practical crossover in this group, it's still a good choice if you're drawn to its fashion-forward styling, impressive mpg and uncommon off-road talents.

FEATURES

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is a small luxury crossover SUV available in four-door and two-door (Evoque Coupe) body styles. There are two basic trim levels: The four-door Evoque comes in a Pure trim level, while the base two-door Evoque coupe is known as the Pure Plus. From there, you can customize the four-door Evoque with Pure Plus, Pure Premium, Dynamic and Prestige option packages. The two-door is eligible for the Pure Premium and Dynamic packages.

The four-door Evoque Pure comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, keyless ignition and entry, driver-selectable drive modes, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power front seats (six-way driver, four-way passenger), partial leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8-inch touchscreen electronics interface and an 11-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and two USB audio jacks.

If you choose the Evoque Coupe (Pure Plus), you'll get all of the above standard equipment, plus 19-inch wheels, front and rear foglights, a power liftgate and a panoramic sunroof and full leather upholstery. This extra equipment is also included if you select the Pure Plus option package for the four-door Evoque.

Available for both body styles, the Pure Premium option package adds adaptive xenon headlamps with automatic high-beam control, a blind-spot warning system, a 360-degree parking camera system, a navigation system with voice controls and a 17-speaker surround-sound audio system with a 10-CD changer.

Offered only on the four-door, the Prestige package adds 19-inch wheels, slightly different exterior trim, upgraded leather upholstery, wood or aluminum interior accents, heated and ventilated front seats, additional front seat adjustments, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and satellite and HD radio. Also included is an automated parking system that steers the vehicle into and out of parallel-parking spots.

Finally, there's the Dynamic package, which is offered on both the Coupe and the four-door. It's similar to the Prestige package (without the cooled front seats) but it has a sportier ambience that includes 20-inch wheels, sport exhaust, adaptive suspension damping, a rear skid plate, and different interior and exterior trim. Available only with the Prestige and Dynamic packages is adaptive cruise control with a forward collision warning system (with emergency braking assist).

INTERIOR

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque's emphasis on design extends to its interior, where rich, multi-hued combinations of leather, plastics, wood and metal result in a cabin that has more flair than the more conventional layouts in other small luxury crossovers.

Visual interest centers on the "floating" center stack and the nifty rotary gear selector. The standard 8-inch central touchscreen controls most infotainment and climate control functions and is easy enough to use, if sometimes slow to respond. The overall appearance of the dash, particularly the center stack and console, is classy but high-tech.

The Evoque's sloping roof line is a stylist's dream but does backseat occupants' heads no favors, and the upward-sloping door sheet metal results in small rear windows, contributing to a claustrophobic feel in the rear. The sensation is heightened in the Coupe, which is also more challenging to get in and out of, naturally. The Evoque's styling and packaging also affects cargo capacity. Its maximum volume of 51 cubic feet (47.6 for the Coupe) with the rear seats folded trails most competitors by a wide margin.

UNDER THE HOOD

Every 2014 Range Rover Evoque comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 240 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission is standard, as is all-wheel drive. All Evoques come with Land Rover's Terrain Response system, which automatically adjusts engine and transmission response depending on road and trail conditions and also offers driver-selectable modes. Also included are hill start assist and hill descent control systems.

The EPA rates both the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Coupe and the Evoque four-door at 24 mpg combined (21 city/30 highway): great numbers for a compact luxury crossover with a conventional gasoline engine.

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Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SUV-2013

PREVIEW

Just like luxury sedans, the wide range of luxury compact crossovers follow a fairly safe and predictable script, particularly when it comes to exterior styling. But Land Rover's 2013 Range Rover Evoque definitely is the extrovert in a playground of mostly reserved playmates. The Evoque dares to go well beyond the luxury market's typical big-grille look to differentiate itself, but it's up to you to decide if you can live with the compromises its dramatic shape demands.

First, though, know that this smallest of Rover's models isn't totally about its looks. It immediately shouldered an "urban" SUV tag (with the not entirely desirable connotations that go with the definition) in Europe because it is offered in a front-wheel-drive variant that sort of thumbs its nose at Range Rover's heritage. In U.S. showrooms you'll find the Evoque fitted only with all-wheel drive and the fairly serious Terrain Response System that allows you to fine-tune the traction characteristics. Add in a responsive turbocharged four-cylinder engine and you're buying one of the more efficient yet capable small luxury crossovers around.

But back to style. The Evoque is the only model in the segment to offer a two-door hatchback body style in addition to the utility segment's standard four-door hatchback configuration. The two-door Coupe looks sharky and serious, though you might rightly question the ultimate utility of a "utility" vehicle with just a single door on each side. With the 2013 Land Rover Evoque, you also won't find the traditional hierarchy of trim levels -- Land Rover instead sells more or less one basic Evoque with "design themes" -- four for the four-door and three design themes for the two-door Coupe.

The Evoque's assertive styling means there's less interior space than in its boxier rivals. The 2013 Audi Q5, 2013 BMW X1 and X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class all are good choices in their own right and typically offer broader utility, particularly over the Evoque Coupe. But for the way most people use a luxury crossover, the Evoque holds its own in terms of features, functionality and all-weather capability.

FEATURES

The 2013 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is a small luxury crossover SUV available in four-door and two-door (Coupe) body styles. The four-door starts with a new basic but comprehensive trim level called "Pure." On top of that one can add the Pure Plus, Pure Premium, Dynamic and Prestige packages. The 2013 Evoque Coupe comes in Pure Plus, Pure Premium and Dynamic themes.

The four-door Evoque Pure comes standard with 19-inch wheels, front and rear foglights, automatic wipers, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, driver-selectable drive modes, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power front seats (six-way driver, four-way passenger), partial leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a touchscreen electronics interface and an 11-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and two USB audio jacks. Pure Plus adds a panoramic sunroof and full leather upholstery.

The Pure Premium package adds adaptive xenon headlamps with automatic high beams, a blind-spot warning system, a 360-degree parking camera system, keyless ignition/entry, a navigation system with voice controls and a 17-speaker surround-sound audio system with a 10-CD changer.

The Dynamic package includes all Pure Premium equipment but features a sportier ambience with unique 19-inch wheels, different trim inside and out, a rear skid plate, different color choices and perforated leather. The Adaptive Dynamics package adds an adaptive suspension to the Dynamic package.

The Prestige (four-door only) is similar in concept to the Dynamic but features more luxurious design items. It also gets richer, more supple leather as well as additional front seat adjustments.

A Climate Comfort package consists of heating for the front seats, steering wheel, windshield washer jets and windshield. Other Evoque options include 20-inch wheels, satellite and HD radio, a rear-seat entertainment system and parallel parking assist.

INTERIOR

The 2013 Range Rover Evoque's emphasis on design extends to its interior, where rich, multitone combinations of leather, plastics and metal combine in the various design themes, resulting in a cabin that certainly has more flair than the standard designs found in most other luxury crossover interiors.

Visual interest centers on the "floating" center stack and the nifty rotary gear selector that has become an interior focal point for corporate cousin Jaguar. The standard 8-inch central touchscreen controls most infotainment and climate control functions and is easy enough to use, if sometimes slow to respond. The overall appearance of the dash, particularly the center stack and console, is classy but high-tech.

The Evoque's rear-sloping roof line is a stylist's dream but does backseat occupants' heads no favors, while the upward-sloping door sheet metal cuts down the rear windows' size, contributing to the cramped and claustrophobic impression most will feel in the rear. The sensation is further heightened in the Coupe. The Evoque's styling and packaging also affects cargo capacity. The maximum of 51 cubic feet (47.6 for the Coupe) of cargo space trails just about all competitors by a wide margin.

UNDER THE HOOD

Every 2013 Range Rover Evoque comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 240 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. It drives all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy estimates are respectable at 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway/22 mpg combined. In Autoexpress performance testing, an Evoque went from zero to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds: a time that trails several rivals with more powerful engines.

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Land Rover Range Rover SUV-2014

PREVIEW

When it comes to ultra-luxury sport-utility vehicles, the five-passenger 2014 Land Rover Range Rover has very few peers. It resides at the top of the lux-u-vee food chain, the benchmark against which many other premium-brand SUVs are measured. Not only does it exude class and offer every spoil imaginable, it's also the real deal from a utility standpoint: It's able to go farther off-road than virtually any other four-wheeled luxury vehicle.

Fully redesigned last year, the 2014 Range Rover is still very fresh, with crisp new styling and a relatively lightweight aluminum body -- indeed, it weighs about 700 pounds less than the previous Range Rover. This massive weight reduction helps it turn and stop better than before, and when equipped with the optional supercharged V8 engine, it is stunningly fast. Expectedly, fuel economy has never been a strong suit of any previous Range Rover, though this year's new supercharged 3.0-liter V6 provides a significant bump in efficiency. Six-cylinder models earn a 19 mpg EPA combined rating compared to a mere 16 mpg combined with last year's naturally aspirated V8 engine.

One of the best places to enjoy the improved performance is from the stately second row of the new long-wheelbase (LWB) Range Rover. Nearly 8 inches longer than the standard-size 2014 Range Rover, the Supercharged LWB version has an additional 7.3 inches of rear seat legroom. The extra room and supremely quiet cabin make for a lavish experience on their own, and optional equipment like power-deployable rear tables, massive DVD entertainment screens, and reclining and massaging rear seats with power footrests virtually guarantees your passengers will get a thorough pampering.

Regardless of which size Range Rover you choose, few owners are likely to take their vehicles on a back-woods expedition, but this luxury SUV is nonetheless right at home on muddy trails or in deep snowpack. A full-on four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing is standard, and Land Rover offers a couple different terrain management systems, the most sophisticated of which is able to detect varying trail conditions and tailor drivetrain, suspension and stability control functions accordingly

That all-terrain capability, along with its iconic design, is what sets the Range Rover apart from its rivals. However, these competitors are impressive vehicles in their own right. The athletic 2014 Porsche Cayenne has some of the best road manners in this class, not to mention an available six-cylinder diesel that returns stellar fuel economy. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz G-Class isn't nearly as civilized to drive, but it's amazing off-road and has rock-star appeal, especially in G63 AMG form. The 2014 Lexus LX 570 is also quite capable off-road, and its eight-passenger seating is a boon for larger families. If you just want a luxury SUV that goes fast, the Cayenne Turbo and Mercedes ML63 and GL63 are all compelling alternatives to the V8 Range Rover as well.

None of these alternatives boasts the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover's beguiling British heritage and safari-ready aesthetics, though. If you've decided on a Range Rover, this is certainly the most refined and desirable one to date.

FEATURES

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover is a five-passenger luxury SUV available in three trim levels: base, Supercharged and Supercharged LWB (long wheelbase). An optional Executive Class seating package for the Supercharged models provides rear bucket seats and decreases passenger capacity to four.

The base Range Rover comes standard with 19-inch wheels, an adjustable air suspension, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, LED light signature, heated and power-folding mirrors, a power clamshell-style liftgate, automatic xenon headlights, privacy glass, keyless entry/ignition, tri-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, rear seats with manual recline, driver memory settings, leather upholstery, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column and a heated steering wheel. Also standard is a navigation system with an 8-inch touchscreen interface and voice control for most infotainment functions, along with Macassar striped wood trim, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a 13-speaker Meridian audio system with USB/iPod/auxiliary audio ports and satellite and HD radio.

Optional for the base 2014 Range Rover is a Vision Assist package that includes an automatic setting for the Terrain Response system, configurable mood lighting, surround-view parking cameras, adaptive headlights with automatic high-beam control, a blind-spot monitor, reverse traffic detection and auto-dimming sideview mirrors.

Stand-alone options for the base Range Rover include an automated parallel-parking system (with a parking exit feature that helps you steer out of a tight space), a rear-seat entertainment system with remote control, panoramic sunroof, wood and leather steering wheel, soft door closers, an upgraded 19-speaker Meridian surround-sound audio system, adaptive cruise control and a Tow package.

The Range Rover's HSE package adds 20-inch alloy wheels, foglights, the panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming sideview mirrors, 12-way power front seats, heated rear seats and upgraded leather upholstery. With the HSE, you can further opt for 22-inch wheels and a couple of extra interior upgrade packages. The Front Seat Climate Comfort package adds ventilated and massaging front seats and a front cooler box. The Four Zone Climate Comfort pack adds four-zone automatic climate control and rear seats that have heating, ventilation, power recline and power lumbar adjustment.

Moving up to the Range Rover Supercharged model earns you a supercharged V8 engine, 21-inch alloy wheels, stainless steel pedals, the automatic Terrain Response system and the contents of the HSE package. Options essentially mirror those available for the base Range Rover, though an additional black lacquer interior wood choice is available, as is a locking rear differential. The Range Rover Supercharged LWB is equipped similarly but gives you lots more rear legroom, an extended panoramic sunroof and power rear window shades.

For the Supercharged and Supercharged LWB, you can also get the Autobiography package. It brings in almost all of the above standard and optional equipment but adds specific 21-inch wheels, extensive extra leather trim including the headliner and dashboard, 18-way-adjustable front seats with massage and memory, two 8-inch rear entertainment screens (10.2-inch screens in the LWB version) and a 29-speaker Meridian audio system with simulated 3D surround-sound technology that's said to provide a concert-like experience for every occupant. It is available in 22 distinct exterior colors. Optional for the Range Rover Autobiography are bright silver side vents, 22-inch wheels (standard-wheelbase model only) and a Rear Executive Class Seating package that incorporates two individual rear seats with memory, extra power adjustments, massage functions and a center console (the rear seatback cushions have a larger range of recline adjustment in the LWB model).

Topping the range is the Autobiography Black package, which is only available on the Supercharged LWB model and only with the rear bucket seats. For a princely sum, it adds perforated leather upholstery on the seats and headliner, power-folding rear tables, rear footrests (with additional leg support on the passenger side), a rear cooler box and upgraded interior/exterior trim (with leather upholstery and wood covering most surfaces in the cabin, and extensive metal detailing on the outside of the vehicle).

INTERIOR

The Range Rover's cabin is as elegant as a modern five-star hotel, with clean surfaces and an industrio-chic design unlike anything else on the market. All materials are first-rate, with artfully stitched leather and gorgeous wood trim.

The driver faces a wide instrument panel with digital gauge dials. An 8-inch touchscreen in the center stack handles infotainment and other secondary controls, while a bank of dials handles basic climate control functions. On the console beneath those is Land Rover's controversial dial-type transmission selector, as well as the dial for the clever Terrain Response system's driver-selectable modes.

Rear-seat headroom and legroom are adequate for most adults with the standard wheelbase, but due to the lower roof and aerodynamic shape, tall individuals may find the rear quarters snug compared with those in the higher-ceilinged Lexus LX 570 and Mercedes GL-Class. In the long-wheelbase Range Rover, however, the rear seat is absolutely cavernous, and even the tallest passengers will have room to stretch out. There are also numerous options to enhance rear seat comfort, including reclining seatbacks, power-deployable tables and an optional (and opulent) two-seat layout to replace the three-across bench seat. No third-row seat option is offered.

The Range Rover's cargo area is adequate but not huge, with 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up. In the standard-wheelbase model, there's a maximum of 71.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the Supercharged LWB model offers a more generous 82.8 cubes. One nice feature the Range Rover does offer is a clamshell-style rear hatch that allows you to load cargo easily without having to rub against a dusty or dirty bumper.

UNDER THE HOOD

Base and HSE package 2014 Land Rover Range Rovers are powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The regular- and long-wheelbase Range Rover Supercharged models have a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 that generates a stupendous 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is coupled to either engine, and a full-time four-wheel-drive system is standard.

We have yet to test the 2014 Range Rover with the new standard supercharged V6, but Land Rover says it can hustle from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, hardly slow, but about a half-second slower than the outgoing V8 model. The payoff comes at the pump. The EPA rates the base 2014 Range Rover at 19 mpg combined (17 city/23 highway), a significant improvement over last year's V8 engine.

At our test track, the standard-wheelbase Range Rover Supercharged thundered to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, which is nearly as quick as Porsche's Cayenne Turbo. 2014 Range Rover Supercharged models built in calendar year 2013 are rated by the EPA at 15 mpg combined (13 city/19 highway), while models built in 2014 get an EPA rating of 16 mpg combined (14/19).

In addition to full-time 4WD with low-range gearing for serious off-roading, all models come with Land Rover's signature Terrain Response system, which allows the driver to optimize powertrain, suspension and electronic stability and traction-control functions for five distinct, mostly off-road traction situations. Standard on the Range Rover Supercharged and optional on base Range Rovers is Terrain Response 2, which features an automatic function that commands the system to employ its many sensors to select the most appropriate setting. A locking rear differential is optional on the Supercharged and standard with the Autobiography package.

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