Fifth Gear - Team Review Range Rover
**The New Range Rover: A Comprehensive Review**
In this article, we will take you through a detailed exploration of the all-new Range Rover, tested at the Millbrook Proving Ground, one of Europe's most advanced research centers. The video transcript provides an in-depth look at the vehicle's design, performance, and luxury features.
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### **Introduction to the Test Location**
The team conducted their test at the Millbrook Proving Ground, a facility renowned for its 49 different tracks and terrains. This location is perfect for testing new vehicles under various conditions, ensuring that every aspect of the Range Rover's capabilities can be thoroughly evaluated.
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### **Overview of the New Range Rover**
The latest iteration of the Range Rover is described as "imperious" and "supremely luxurious." Priced between £71,000 and £98,000, it offers a choice of two diesel engines and one petrol engine. The team tested the most powerful diesel option, the 4.4-liter turbocharged V8.
One significant improvement is its weight reduction: despite being lighter by 420 kilograms compared to its predecessor, the new Range Rover still tips the scales at around 2,300 kilograms—over half a ton.
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### **Design and Exterior Features**
The design of the Range Rover has undergone subtle changes. While it retains much of its iconic shape, there are noticeable improvements in smoothness and rounded lines compared to previous models. The video notes that the new model feels like a "different journey" in terms of styling, with curved forms replacing the boxier appearance of earlier versions.
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### **Interior Luxury and Comfort**
The Range Rover's interior is described as a "VIP corner of a nightclub," with sleek, minimalist design elements. The Autobiography model tested features a shiny black finish and high-end amenities like champagne glasses and whiskey decanters in the backseat. This level of luxury makes it clear that the Range Rover aims to compete with the most opulent vehicles on the market.
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### **Comparison with Rolls-Royce**
To gauge the Range Rover's luxury credentials, it was compared directly with a Rolls-Royce Phantom. The Rolls-Royce is described as "phenomenal" and "drenched in wealth," setting a high standard for luxury cars. However, the Range Rover holds its own in terms of comfort and quality, though it falls short of matching the opulence of the Rolls-Royce.
The dilemma faced by luxury car buyers is posed: Should they opt for a used Rolls-Royce or a brand-new Range Rover? The video suggests that while the Range Rover may not surpass the Rolls-Royce in sheer luxury, it offers exceptional driving performance and value.
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### **On-Road Performance**
Despite its size, the Range Rover impresses with its agility and responsiveness. It accelerates smoothly, delivering impressive torque of 516 pounds-feet, which is nearly as much as the Rolls-Royce's V12 engine. The vehicle's driving dynamics are described as "sprightly," offering a refined yet powerful on-road experience.
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### **Off-Road Capabilities**
The Range Rover's off-road abilities were tested with the help of Vicki Butler-Hoare, known as the "world's worst off-road driver." The car proved to be highly capable, tackling challenging terrains with ease. It successfully navigated deep water crossings and steep inclines, demonstrating its robust engineering.
Vicki humorously commented on her experience, acknowledging the Range Rover's impressive performance despite her lack of skill behind the wheel. She even received high praise from the team for her efforts.
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### **Final Evaluation**
After rigorous testing, the Range Rover received a team test score of 34.5 out of 40. This high score reflects its overall excellence in design, luxury, and performance. The vehicle is praised for balancing opulence with practicality, making it a standout choice in its segment.
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### **Conclusion**
The new Range Rover is a testament to Land Rover's engineering prowess, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and capability that few competitors can match. Whether on-road or off-road, this vehicle proves that it is a force to be reckoned with in the luxury SUV market.