Overview & Reviews

Pedigree means everything at the top end of the sport-utility market, and no luxury SUV has more pedigree than the Land Rover Range Rover. The Land Rover name dates to 1948, when the Rover group began building bare-bones 4x4 vehicles with extraordinary off-road capability. The Range Rover emerged from this off-road tradition in 1970, billed as the first Land Rover civil enough to be driven by a person in a business suit. This two-door SUV was stylish, yet quite primitive by today's standards, but it was immediately popular among wealthy U.K. consumers with a taste for the safari aesthetic. Sales in the United States started in 1987, though quite a few Range Rovers were imported through the gray market in the years preceding.

Now in its third generation, the Land Rover Range Rover still carries considerable prestige. From an off-road perspective, it's one of the most capable SUVs available at any price. From a luxury perspective, it's probably the most elegant and distinctive utility vehicle on the market, despite a few rough edges. High pricing keeps all but the very rich from buying a new Range Rover, a fact that only adds to the appeal of this elite 4x4.

2013 Range Rover Specs
The 2013 Range Rover is a five-passenger luxury SUV available in two trim levels, both featuring 5.0-liter V8s. The HSE model produces 375 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque, while the Supercharged's V8 develops an impressive 510 hp and 461 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control.

A permanent four-wheel-drive system is standard on all Range Rovers, along with low-range gearing and nearly 11 inches of maximum ground clearance. The standard Terrain Response system allows the driver to customize powertrain, suspension and electronic stability and traction systems to best handle five predetermined off-road conditions.

Engineered in the late 1990s during the brief period when BMW owned Land Rover, the Range Rover is nevertheless aging quite well. It employs unibody construction (instead of body-on-frame architecture) and a fully independent suspension (instead of solid axles). These changes make all the difference when cruising on pavement, as the Range Rover now delivers the composed ride and secure handling expected of a true luxury SUV. Yet BMW engineers went about their work carefully so as not to compromise all-terrain ability.

Cabin design is a mix of traditional and modern in the new Range Rover. The upright seating position, blocky dash and large steering wheel evoke the feeling of an old-school Land Rover, while supple leather seats (with contrasting piping), walnut inlays and a navigation system with both on- and off-road mapping assure you that this is indeed a contemporary luxury vehicle. The cabin, like the exterior, manages to be both retro and modern at the same time, especially with the new gauge cluster that is, in fact, a large LCD screen. Nevertheless, its controls can be rather arcane in fine British tradition. A roomy reclining rear seat makes it possible to carry a pair of adults or three children in back, but cargo room is only average due to a high load floor.

If you're looking for a premium SUV with unparalleled off-road abilities and a legendary pedigree, the new Range Rover is an obvious choice. If you want to save some money and get a bit more on-road talent with that same legendary pedigree, the Range Rover Sport is a good compromise. However, any Land Rover has an albatross slung around its neck in the form of disappointing reliability. Buying one has been known to cause headaches (and breakdowns), which is certainly ironic given their status as go-to vehicles for adventures to Outer Mongolia.

Used Land Rover Range Rover Models
The present-generation Range Rover dates back to its introduction for 2003. Between then and '05, a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter V8 rated for 282 hp was the only engine available. It came with a five-speed automatic transmission. However, in 2006, then-parent company Ford replaced this engine with a pair of Jaguar-sourced V8s. The HSE featured a 305-hp 4.4-liter V8, while the Supercharged had a 4.2-liter V8 that was (surprise!) supercharged to produce 400 hp. The same number of transmission gears and four-wheel-drive system were employed as in the current Rover. The current 5.0-liter V8s showed up for 2010.

Buyers interested in technology will want to pay particular attention to year-by-year changes when shopping for used Range Rovers of this generation. The navigation system was CD-based until Land Rover upgraded it for 2005 (although it's once again a bit behind the times). A rear back-up camera and adaptive headlights were added to the standard equipment list for 2006.

There were significant changes made for 2007 when the interior was given a mild refresh, with twin gloveboxes, new cupholders and a slightly more intuitive control layout. The customizable off-road settings debuted that year along with an upgraded rear differential and an electronic parking brake. Airbags were also relocated for better performance and a driver's knee airbag was added. For 2010, there were minor exterior updates, a new LCD instrument cluster and navigation system, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree parking assist camera. Updates were also performed on the adaptive suspension, Terrain Response and stability control systems.

There were two previous generations of the Range Rover. Both are coveted on the used market, but potential buyers should know what they're getting into, because Range Rovers have been phenomenal off-roaders, but reliability is poor and repair costs are high.

Sold from 1995-2002, the second-generation Range Rover is the better bet of the two for buyers seeking a luxury experience. Note that 1995 was an overlap year: Rovers bearing a "4.0 SE" badge are the new model, while those with "County Classic" or "County LWB" badging are the old design. For 1996, Land Rover added a high-line 4.6 HSE model, and for the sake of acceleration alone, this is the better bet: The Range Rover 4.0 SE was powered by a 188-hp 4.0-liter V8, while the 4.6 HSE took a 222-hp 4.6-liter V8 with considerably more torque. A four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive were standard on all models, as were leather upholstery, wood trim and a high-end audio system. Interior furnishings were opulent by the standards of the day, with ample comfort for front and rear passengers.

Second-generation Range Rovers still had solid axles front and rear, but engineers fitted self-leveling air springs to improve their manners on pavement. There's only so much you can do with old-fashioned hardware, though, and compared to other high-end SUVs, the Land Rover Range Rover's ride quality was harsh and body roll was excessive around corners.

Shopping for a first-generation Range Rover could make sense if you're looking for a dedicated off-road vehicle and don't mind repair bills or doing your own repair work. Only a four-door version of the Range Rover came to the U.S., and initially it had a 3.9-liter V8 (rated for anywhere from 178-182 hp, depending on the year) and a four-speed automatic transmission. A long-wheelbase model known as the County LWB joined the lineup for 1993, and not only did it have another 7 inches of rear legroom, it upgraded to a 200-hp 4.2-liter V8.

User Reviews:

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  my rover - 2005 Land Rover Range Rover
  By range rover hse - July 1 - 10:33 pm

  This truck is a looker. People often compliment me on my purchase. However, it has more than its share of mechanical defects and glitches. Part of the problem, I believe, is there are just too many cute electronic gadgets. Thus more things that can go wrong. I have just over 60k miles and have already replaced a major portion of my transmission. (under warranty) I dont think this is acceptable. If you are looking for a conversation piece, this is it. If you are looking for economy and reliability, not here!

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  An Expensive Ride - 2002 Land Rover Range Rover
  By INSTANT ROVER FAN - May 29 - 2:00 am

  So far so good. I took over this Range Rover after it was garage kept and pampered at every routine dealer maintenance suggestion. I continue to do the same and have not been disappointed. Its an expensive vehicle to maintain, but it will not disappoint when its called to duty. Yes, the vehicle has some quirks, but its something I have found in each vehicle I have owned. Nothing is perfect, but this vehicle gets me and my family where we need to go regardless of the weather and most importantly it does it safely. Luxury is one thing, but safety and reliability is top priority in my book and that is why I chose the 2002 Range Rover as the chariot of choice.

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  Dont waste your money - 2006 Land Rover Range Rover
  By lenny - April 6 - 9:56 pm

  Dont waste your money....I have had nothing but problems with this SUV since day 2...the voice recognition does not recognize,,,the phone system is usless. The on board computer has froze up enough times to make you go crazy....Either I have a Lemon or the bugs in the electronics were never tested before mass production....I love the driving and comfort, but the electronics braking down all the time is enough for me to reurn the car if I could.

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  Only 2 Days Old - 2006 Land Rover Range Rover
  By ru4god2 - March 13 - 3:26 am

  Been wanting a full sized RR since 1989. When i saw the price drop on the 2006 models, I searched high and low to find the white w/sand I wanted. No frills, no heated seats, no entertainment, no luxury package, just the base line RR. I bought it certified with only 27k on it. So far, I cant stop grinning. Every time I look at it and hop in, I still cant believe its mine. Finally. Audio system is a little clunky. Why so many different screens to perform simple functions? And the controls are a little out of arms reach (and Ive got 35" arms.) Some of the materials on the interior are cheap feeling (plastic) but thats all I can think of....

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  Satisfied owner - 2010 Land Rover Range Rover
  By Aglerote - March 12 - 8:56 am

  This car replaced an MB ML63, one of the best cars Ive ever owned but the too-firm ride began to wear me down (and my wife). Fortunately, the RR has a new and nicely-powered supercharged engine for 2010, since it was so easy to get spoiled by and used to the ML. So far, I have been very pleased with the RR. Its not sporty and is all about luxury / comfort; different strokes for different folks. Its basically an S-Class SUV. The RR has only 500 miles on it so far, so I will need to update these initial impressions in a few months. Also, Ill soon be putting on true snow tires (to substitute for the all-season stock tires) and giving it some real-world back-road snow tests.

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  Great look and feel, not worth the price - 2010 Land Rover Range Rover
  By MG - February 26 - 4:20 pm

  I have owned this car for almost 1 year. It is great to look and drive, has a solid, smooth ride, doesnt feel like youre driving a 3 ton car.Ive had many comments from other riders about the smooth ride. Offroading is no trouble at all. For the price however, Ive had too many little things go wrong. My back up camera has reset, so it is reversed its image and the lines that show where you are heading are gone. You dont know what station you are listening to when the Nav screen is up kills me. Voice activation of the system is poor. Cant find any POIs. the seat heater in the back is labeled blue and red, so why doesnt it cool like the front seats?

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  The Dichotomy of Land - 2006 Land Rover Range Rover
  By Justin Woodall - February 17 - 2:52 pm

  Youll love it, & probably buy it, for the obvious reasons; style, class, comfort, luxury, utility, & the jealousy factor. But, in specific the leather, info touch screen, Harmon-Kardon stereo, & all options of the luxury interior package (an absolute must). You will grow to love the driveability, ride, & handling. If you have the guts to try it, being so expensive, the off road capability of the Range Rover is amazing. I sell ranches in Texas. I can sell properties that others cant in my Rover. Turn the suspension nob & lift the Rover 3 inches. It will now traverse the most challenging terrain with ease, & without feeling like it. Its the love child of a Jeep & a Mercedes sedan. You will HATE the repair bills! In 4 years or so, both front airbags failed (although, I love the feature) rendering it undriveable, a door handle broke, sun roof jammed, & the nav map stopped working (I just ejected the disc!). I suggest finding a expert Land Rover guy near you (NOT THE DEALER!). The dealer wanted $3k for each airbag, $1k for the door, $1k for Sun roof, & $500 for the nav map, thats $8,500! It still cost me $3k with my non-dealer guy. The 255 55 R19 tires are very expensive & the selection sucks. Also, it has the most expensive battery Ive ever seen. Overall, the 2006 Range Rover HSE is an awesome vehicle. Just remember, if you buy one be prepared to drop $5k for repairs at anytime.

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  Great vehicle - 2001 Land Rover Range Rover
  By Maryland - January 28 - 5:33 am

  We bought this Rover certified used with 20K miles on it in 2003. We have used it ever since, and have put 51K more miles on it. We had issues with the air suspension (replaced under warranty) and the radio (an amp blew) but otherwise the Rover has been rock solid. We get a solid 17mph, which I consider fine given the size of the Rover.

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  Read before buying - 2006 Land Rover Range Rover
  By Cameron - January 11 - 2:30 pm

  This vehicle is a typical German engineered product. It is luxurious and safe with nice additives but other than that, there is nothing special. The car is pretty much leech on your time and bank account. When you purchase German this is what you get, if you want quality go buy Honda or Toyota. However there is no accuse for the lack of assistance with with making things right. If you purchase this vehicle make sure to have a lawyer because more then likely you will be contacting him with this matter.

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  If you want to lead the pack... - 2000 Land Rover Range Rover
  By Big Papa Pump - December 25 - 10:00 am

  There were 10 things I wanted to do before I die and go to heaven. Number 4 on that list was to own a Range Rover. This sweet riding vehicle reminds me of my first real girl...smooth...silky...and something everybody else wishes they had...enuf said!