2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

With the inclusion of an all-new trim into the lineup, Land Rover aims at improving the customization options available with the Range Rover Sport. The midsize SUV now is offered in three trim levels, each of which shares a common engine under the hood and are distinguished by the state of its tune and their feature lists. Each trim comes with an optional third-row of seats and irrespective of the configuration, it gets adorned with quality materials, and is packed to the hilt with class-leading features including cruise control, LED headlights, and Puddle lamps.

Additionally, the RR Sport also offers two variants, the SVR and Autobiography, which feature a distinct V8 engine under the hood and are priced north of the base variants, making them the top-tier options in the SUVs lineup.

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While the base SE trim is also handsomely-equipped, the High Specification Equipment or HSE trim makes sense to us. At a diminutive price difference from the base option, the HSE adds to the utility and quirkiness of the SUV, making it a well-built package.

When it was initially launched, Land Rover offered the 2019 Range Rover Sport with a standard supercharged V6 unit. However, within the year, this unit made way for the brand’s new inline-6 option, which not only aimed at improving performance but with a 48-volt mild-hybrid unit in place, made it possible to uphold efficiency as well. In its base level avatar, the new engine available on the base SE and mid-level HSE trims churns out around 355hp of power and 365 lb.-ft of torque. With the HST trim, power, however, bumps up to 395hp, while torque is rated at 406 lb.-ft.

Irrespective of the trim, the new and refined engine under the hood of the 2019 Land Rover Range Rover is quick to accelerate and does have an exciting aura to it. In its base state of tune, the inline-6 engine propels the SUV to the 60-mph mark in 6.8 seconds. While these timings are expected to improve with the HST trim, the Sport is not inherently as quick as its rivals.

While all the SUVs in comparison here are representative of bespoke engineering and are eerily similar in the setups they use, the level of performance varies with each contemporary. Clearly, the Jaguar F-Pace S is the most exhilarating option in the segment. It is the quickest to the 60-mph mark taking 5.1 seconds and produces the highest power output at 380hp. Following its suit is the BMW X5, which despite a major power deficit, manages to be equally quick and has the highest top speed of 177 MPH. Surprisingly, the Porsche Cayenne S, which is eager to be driven and has a rich racing heritage to back its capabilities, is fractionally slower.

2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Ride and Handling

While the competitors manage to surpass the Land Rover when it comes to brute acceleration and straight-line performance, the Range Rover Sport gains ascendancy by virtue of its supple and comfortable ride quality. It’s truly a land yacht that performs impressively on each road surface and even undulations are well-tackled, thanks to an adaptive-air suspension system onboard. The RR Sport is built to be an everyday vehicle with the capabilities of an off-roader and though its suspension system does seem to be a bit stiff, it sits well with the Sport moniker of the SUV.

In terms of handling and feedback, the 2019 Range Rover Sport is highly responsive and makes the drive a delightful experience. And though the monocoque chassis helps it cleverly manage its heft, the SUV has undeniable body roll and finds itself a bit confused when cornering at high speeds. But what does work well for Land Rover is that the higher level of torque improves the towing capabilities and also provides a decent amount of power at lower speeds.

2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Braking Performance

Considering its weight and dimensions, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport performs impressively when braking is concerned. It comes with the largest set of brakes, both at the front and rear, which measure 14.3 and 13.8-inches, respectively. These brakes allow the hefty SUV to come to a halt at 124 ft, which though diminutively higher than some of its competitors, feels potent and offers abundant value. Additionally, the Sport comes equipped with a set of ventilated brakes and 4-wheel ABS to aid its performance.

While the halting distances for the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne are not yet known, the Jaguar F-Pace vaunts the shortest stopping distance at 121 ft, thanks to its lower curb weight. However, its brake rotors are smaller than all other competitors measuring about 13.8 and 12.8-inches at the front and back, respectively. On the other hand, the Porsche Cayenne comes in second in terms of brake sizes, yet the difference in its rotors and the Land Rover’s is considerable enough to give the latter an edge in terms of performance and also provides a sharp bite when instant braking is required.

The mild-hybrid system that Land Rover introduces to complement the inline-6 engine aims at improving efficiency. And while it does not do it explicitly, the Range Rover Sport will be the most economical SUV in its class when running costs are concerned. The RR Sport averages a mileage of 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. Combined, its efficiency is pegged at 19 miles per gallon of fuel, which is the lowest in the segment.

However, it comes equipped with the largest fuel tank in the segment of 27.6-gallons, which when unified with its mileage does wonder for the range. The Range Rover Sport can cover 524 miles in combined driving conditions without a fuel stop.

In comparison with the competitors, the BMW X5 is the most efficient SUV on paper, averaging a combined mileage of 22 MPG. However, the German SUV alongside the Jaguar F-Pace sport the least voluminous tanks and are thus limited by the range that they cover. On the other hand, the Porsche Cayenne performs rather decently, and while not the most efficient, the Cayenne’s fuel tank of 23.7-gallons does allow it to breach the 500-mile mark.

Typical to all Land Rover’s, the Range Rover Sport resonates with an ostentatious aura and is palatial in its build. It feels craftily curated and has defined ergonomics, which make the setup user-friendly. The central infotainment system and climate controls are within the reach of the driver, but the dual-screen unit does seem to be a bit frustrating when on the go. The genuine leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel does have a premium feel to them and even in all other aspects, the cabin feels well-rounded.

As for comfort, the Range Rover Sport continues to deliver a top-notch performance. Both the rows of seats have ample space and even taller passengers do not feel claustrophobic. There is ample lumbar support available and every seat bestows a commanding position, making the ride better than before. While the five-seat configuration is standard, buyers can also opt for a third-row of seat to increase passenger. However, the optional third row is not suited for adults and is built to seat children or haul additional cargo. As standard, the Range Rover Sport has a total of 27.5 cubic feet of space in its trunk, which is not the best in the segment but is ample for a family of five.

In terms of cabin build and quality, the Land Rover Range Rover Sportis similar to all of its competitors. However, all three SUVs from BMW, Jaguar, and Porsche have standard seating capacities of five passengers each. While the interior space for the Cayenne is not yet known, the 2019 F-Pace and X5 have similar interior spaces and come with the highest cargo capacities as well, which are in excess of 33 cubic feet.

In terms of creature comforts, the Range Rover Sport feels handsomely equipped. It comes with features like electric power steering, a universal garage door opener, and interior air filtration. And with the higher-level trims, these specifications and features only tend to increase.

Some of the standout interior features include:

• Dual-zone climate control
• Ambient interior lighting
• Leather Upholstery
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
• Premium Rear Seat Convenience Package
• Interior Air Filtration

How intuitive is the infotainment system of the 2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport?

The 2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport makes use of a dual-screen infotainment setup, which is fairly intuitive and has logically placed menus and options. While the central screen relates to entertainment, the lower-placed display unit helps control the climate, drive modes, and vehicle settings. The Range Rover Sport is equipped with the brand’s traditional InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system and it comes with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and AM/FM Stereo. The SUV is fitted with an 8-speaker sound unit as standard, while the mid-level and top-tier trims boast a 13-speaker Meridien sound system.

Some other salient infotainment features include:

• USB Connection
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Auxiliary Audio Input
• Satellite Radio
• Navigation System
• Dual touchscreen display unit

On the outside, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport has an enticing design that draws its inspiration from the flagship Range Rover. While at the front both these SUVs do have an almost similar fascia, it is the rear where the Sport distinguishes itself. It features a smaller set of tail lights, which are athletic and infuse an element of luxury into it. When viewed from the side, the Range Rover Sport has an imposing look and its beefiness is evident in the muscular lines that run through the car. However, if we were to name our favorite feature, the sleek grille upfront bestows a bewitching look and is rather distinct. 

In terms of size and dimensions, the Range Rover Sport is the heftiest option that weighs 5,135 lbs. Though not the longest, the midsize SUV from Land Rover sports a wheelbase of 115.1 inches and has a ground clearance of 8.4 inches, making it apt for off-roading.

In terms of aesthetics, we believe no SUV comes close to the mean fascia of the Land Rover. Nonetheless, we do appreciate Porsche’s design as the recently updated Cayenne has an element of bizazz to it. However, it does not mean that the BMW and Jaguar fail to impress. For those who want a subtler design for their midsize SUV, both the X5 and F-Pace will make for a tantalizing option.

In terms of dimensions, the Jaguar F-Pace is the most compact option and has the shortest wheelbase of 113.1 inches. On the other hand, the BMW X5 lies on the other end of the spectrum and gets the best ground clearance of 8.7 inches. The Porsche Cayenne is slotted right between the segment and either way, all of these SUVs can be ideal to be used as family haulers.

Some of the salient exterior features:

• Sunroof
• 19-inch wheels
• Fog Lamps
• Running Boards
• Deployable side steps
• Tow hitch receiver

The 2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport has neither been tested by the NHTSA nor IIHS. However, even with no specified ratings, the midsize SUV performs impressively when safety and reliability are concerned. The Range Rover Sport is based on a monocoque platform, which makes use of high-tensile material for added safety. As standard, it comes equipped with safety specifications like an engine immobilizer, daytime running lights, and child seat anchors. Some other features include:

• Emergency Braking Preparation
• Dusk Sensing Headlamps
• Lane Departure Warning System
• Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors
• Anti-theft Alarm System
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Post Collision Safety System
• Front and Rear Head Airbags

2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2019 BMW X5

Among the two SUVs available here, the less-expensive BMW X5 turns out to be the more sought-after option for traditional buyers in the segment. Representing German craftsmanship in its finest avatar, the BMW X5 resounds with a plush aura and like the LR, it makes use of the finest quality material inside out. However, for us, it is the ability of the X5 to unify agile driving dynamics with potent acceleration that makes it a true winner in the segment. While not as efficient as the Range Rover Sport, the BMW’s range feels decent for everyday use. This when coupled with its capacious cabin, sizable trunk volume, and lower price tag, makes the X5 an irresistible offer.

2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2019 Jaguar F-Pace

Unlike the BMW X5, the decision between the Land Rover Range Rover Sport and Jaguar F-Pace is actually a hard one. When pitted against each other, the F-Pace undoubtedly emerges as the quicker option taking just 5.1 seconds to the 60-mph mark. And to complement its performance, it also gets a better braking unit that allows the SUV to stop at a distance shorter than its rivals. However, in a segment that is aimed at family-hauling rather than outright acceleration, the Range Rover Sport’s frugality, longer wheelbase, and a decently-sized trunk, come in handy. So, despite a higher MSRP, we feel that the X5’s lead in the practical aspects makes it a proposition we would like to bet our money on.

2019 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2019 Porsche Cayenne

The Porsche Cayenne is the closest competitor to the Land Rover Range Rover in their segment. It comes with a potent turbocharged V6 under its hood and is the only other SUV that records timings in the 6-second range when in the 60mph acceleration test. Additionally, both these SUVs manage to breach the 500-mile mark when the range is concerned. While space on the inside and in the boot is also quite equally matched and even the cabin design languages seem to have aggressive undertones, consequently, there is not much to distinguish the SUVs on. And so, either of the two options in comparison here is an aplomb choice and despite diminutive price differences, both these vehicles remain supreme choices that offer high value.

The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is not an SUV that would make headlines with its categorized excellence, rather, it is a jack of all trades. Just by its design, the Sport garners abundant attention in the segment. However, it is the introduction of an all-new engine and trim that creates the hype for the midsize SUV in 2019. It continues to be a potent performer that vaunts likable drivable dynamics and with its luxury and plushness it seems to be a perfect alternative for those looking to ditch the revered German SUVs.