2014 Range Rover Sport Supercharged Review
This week, I had a fantastic opportunity, thanks to Jaguar Land Rover Middle East, who handed me the keys to the 2014 Range Rover Sport Supercharged, the latest and most popular model from Range Rover. Since its launch last year, this vehicle has become the epitome of luxury SUVs. I had a chance to take it for a spin during the first drive and wanted to test it extensively. Since its debut, I have read numerous reports, all agreeing on one point – it is the best luxury SUV produced by JLR. Hence, my enthusiasm was at its peak.
Elegance
At first glance, the Range Rover Sport strikes a balance between the Evoque and the Vogue, with the front resembling the Vogue and the rear echoing the Evoque. In my opinion, it looks like an elongated Evoque. It is no longer boxy like the previous generation, and I believe it is the most attractive Range Rover yet. It sits lower than the Vogue, which, paired with the low-profile wheels, gives it a sporty vibe. Some of the exterior details include:
- LED front and rear lights
- Fog lights
- Black front grille with a red SPORT badge on the rear
Yes, we tested the Supercharged V8. There are no complaints in this department, although the Porsche Cayenne has a sportier design.
Interior Materials and Quality
Being a Range Rover, one would expect nothing less than the finest soft and comfortable materials, and it delivers. From the moment I sat in the vehicle, I was reluctant to leave. I compared it to another luxury SUV I tested, the Mercedes-Benz GL500, and I must say, while both use high-quality materials, this vehicle offers more comfort. The interior is impeccably arranged. Overall, I loved the cabin, except for the wind and road noise at high speeds.
Visibility and Cabin Space
As an SUV, you expect spaciousness. It does not come with seven seats, which is fine as it allows for better space overall. Particularly, the legroom in the back isn’t expansive. I could sit in the rear, but my legs weren't entirely comfortable. The vehicle is wider than before, accommodating three people in the back. I believe they prioritized the trunk space since it is quite spacious, but I doubt all customers care about trunk space, especially when the vehicle's price is around 500,000 AED.
In terms of visibility, it resembles crossover vehicles, and being sporty, the seats are positioned lower.
Cabin Technology and Features
This vehicle is packed with comfort features you would expect from the British manufacturer. Here are some of the features we loved:
- Adaptive headlights
- 360-degree camera
- Dual-screen setup
- Self-parking
- Traffic alert system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Electronic information display
Cons? The screen is slow most of the time and not user-friendly. I had to pull over to figure out how to switch from the radio to iPod. Also, the internal LED lights seem unnecessary. Where is the cooling/heating/massage for the seats? If I’m paying around 500,000 AED, I want these features. Overall, the Mercedes GL500 wins this category at a lower price (370,000 AED).
Power and Transmission
After I pressed the accelerator, I understood the reason for its price. Its high cost isn't for the interior features but for the incredible engine! The supercharged 5.0 V8 engine produces 510 horsepower and 625 Nm of torque – the same found in the Jaguar XKR-S – paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters. This means it can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5 seconds in sport mode.
When I stopped to stretch my legs after a long drive, I wanted the gear to stay in neutral while I pressed the accelerator to hear the beautiful exhaust note. You can feel the car wants to be driven.
With multiple driving modes, Land Rover has made this vehicle sporty rather than just a crossover. It includes Sport, Sand, Gravel, Snow, Rock, and Auto to adapt to all road types. I only tested Sport and Auto and felt the difference between them. You’ll notice a difference in handling and steering. In Auto mode, the vehicle takes its time to accelerate, while in Sport mode, it's the complete opposite. I thoroughly enjoyed it; driving it felt like I was behind the wheel of a sports car.
However, the fuel consumption rate was 19.7 L/100km. If you’re just cruising, the rate is 15.5 L/100km – similar to the Mazda CX-9 – which is commendable for a V8.
Handling, Suspension, and Braking
I mentioned earlier that they reduced the vehicle's weight, and you'll feel it while driving. It genuinely feels like a sports car. This vehicle was tested on the Nürburgring circuit to become the fastest SUV. I didn’t feel like I was driving a 3-ton vehicle. I had the chance to test it off-road and on the circuit, and I must say, it impressed me. It handles corners exceptionally well. Anyone who has driven it knows what I'm talking about; well done, Jaguar Land Rover!
On the downside, since it is sporty, it tends to feel firm. I’m not saying that driving over bumps is painful, but you will feel them. With adaptive suspension, I expected a smoother drive, but perhaps I’m being a bit picky.
As for the brakes, they weren’t what I expected for an SUV, which is a compliment! They’re light but not as quick as I anticipated in Auto mode. If you want rapid braking, switch to Sport mode, but keep in mind that this will increase fuel consumption. In my test, I was able to brake from 100-0 km/h in 3.1 seconds.
Conclusion
So, what can I say about this vehicle that hasn’t been said before? It’s incredibly fast for an SUV; while it may not match the Cayenne's speed, it is still quick. Features depend on the model's price, and the vehicle is stunning (though I personally find the Cayenne more beautiful). Last but not least, it excels off-road, unlike the Cayenne. So, what do you get for its price? A beautiful vehicle that turns heads and can be driven on any road while seated in a first-class cabin akin to a Boeing 747. This car seats five, but the happiest will be the driver because it is an absolute joy to drive – just don’t exceed the speed limit!
