Test drive Range Rover TDV8: one for all
This Range Rover can evoke a cry of the wild, but its noble atmosphere and powerful 8 hp V340 diesel engine. stand just as well on normal roads.
It would be quite possible. We set the Dual Transmission Terrain Response to the Mud position, activate the transmission downshift (2,93: 1) just in case, and get out of traffic on rough terrain and muddy roads. Such desires are far from the realm of fantasy, but with this car they are rather a matter of choice. However, the fine gravel and wet grass under the 21-inch wheels fit into the noble ambience of the huge Range Rover only if they are in the courtyard of English aristocrats. Therefore, we are patiently waiting for the traffic jam to end and move forward.
As soon as the virtual tachometer reaches 2000, the front car begins to dangerously approach - there is no clearer sign that the maximum torque of 700 Nm has already been reached. Sensing our intentions, the eight-speed automatic transmission allows the dark forces to spin up to about 4000 rpm and only after that it shifts to the next gear. If desired, for more aggressive races, in which the main role is assigned to the eight-cylinder 4,4-liter diesel unit, the driver can select a sport mode or manual gear shifting. In fact, however, this is neither necessary nor particularly noticeable in terms of dynamics - when a typical recent Jaguar Land Rover Descent Control is left in D, engine torque flow and precise transmission are in such perfect sync that the transition into high-speed the regime can in no way improve the situation. In this combination, it is not surprising that the test car, with a negligible difference, achieves the manufacturer's specified acceleration to 100 km / h in 6,9 seconds - in our case, it takes exactly seven seconds.
Low fuel consumption values
The same can be said for fuel consumption - in the auto motor und sport test cycle for low consumption, Range Rover reports 8,6 liters, which is even lower than the company's data on average consumption according to the European test cycle. And, as you know, putting them into practice is a rather complicated matter. The average consumption for the entire test was 12,2 liters, which is quite acceptable for a car with a large eight-cylinder diesel engine of similar size and proportions and a weight of 2647 kilograms measured in scales.
By the way, this is a very serious value, dear British gentlemen. Where exactly is 2360 kilograms mentioned in the specifications and what is the sharp weight loss in practice and "the leading role of Jaguar Land Rover in the development of high-tech lightweight structures" (text from the brand's press releases). However, the predecessor, the last one to pass the scales, weighed 2727 kilograms.
Wonderful panoramic view
The question of comfort is a separate issue - it is the highest class at its best. This was taken care of by the air suspension, which with a stroke of 310 mm confidently absorbs bumps and without residue. The salon welcomes its passengers with incredible luxury, and extremely comfortable seats with large sizes and electric adjustments are upholstered in high-quality materials. Their high positions, in turn, are used in the form of excellent visibility for passengers. Some will take time to get used to the virtual instruments, others may not get used to them at all, and the controls located to the right of the touch screen require a long arm.
The Meridian Sound System offers high quality sound, and the listening pleasure can prevent the driver from leaving the luxury paved road. Uncompromising luxury that makes passengers feel like they are in a tall limousine, in which even hard pedaling in thick carpets does not significantly increase the noise emanating from the powerful eight-cylinder unit, does not contribute to such performance.
However, one of the most impressive qualities of this car remains its ability to cope with extremely difficult situations on rough terrain without betraying its aristocratic manners. The Range Rover Sport is capable of taking you to places where any regular SUV and most classic SUVs would go. It’s even more satisfying to watch how off-road feats are accomplished without tension and stress for the driver thanks to the brilliant settings of the Terrain Response system – behavior befitting a four-wheeled nobleman.
EVALUATION
Body
+ Very good overview
+ Spacious space for passengers
+ Convenient commodity space
+ Sufficient lifting capacity
+ High quality workmanship
– High loading threshold
– Outdated infotainment system
Comfort
+ High comfort in overcoming inequality
+ Extremely comfortable seats
+ Low noise level
Engine / transmission
+ Powerful and balanced diesel engine
+ Extremely precise automation with suitable gear ratios
Travel behavior
+ Safe behavior
+ Nice terrain in rough terrain
- Tendency to understeer
safety
+ Extensive security equipment
– Medium level brakes
ecology
+ Low consumption in the test for minimum fuel consumption
– No start-stop system
Costs
+ Extensive equipment at a serial level
+ Wide warranty
– High purchase price
– High maintenance costs
Text: Bozhan Boshnakov
Photo: Melania Iosifova
