Leading By Example
Aug 15, 2022
Encapsulating five decades of Range Rover DNA while adopting a raft of 21st-century technologies, the latest flagship luxury SUV from Land Rover doubles down on the indelible idea that this might very well remain the only vehicle you will ever need.
If you needed proof of Land Rover’s unassailable self-belief in the vehicles it produces, consider that its flagship, the Range Rover, has only been updated five times since the original first arrived 52 years ago.
The Range Rover is the luxury SUV segment benchmark. It’s the originator, having delivered superior quality since inception. Despite the field becoming ever more crowded as manufacturers of all stripes acquiesce to modern market demands, Range Rover still sits atop the mountain. It cut the path up there after all.
As to be expected, the latest Range Rover builds on the unbeatable marriage of modernism and tradition the last iteration effortlessly conveyed. What might be surprising, however, are the incremental degrees of change the latest generation introduces, while retaining indelible hallmarks that speak to its heritage.
With its extended wheelbase, the 2022 Range Rover introduces a choice of four, five or seven-seat interiors available across Standard and Long Wheelbase body designs, with the seven-seat option on offer for the first time.
Another first are extended range Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain versions which are being evaluated for the New Zealand market, with a pure-electric model set to join the line-up in 2024.
To be confirmed for the New Zealand market, the innovative extended range PHEV powertrains will provide CO2 emissions below 30g/km, with a pure-electric driving range of up to 100km, delivering an expected real-world range of up to 80km, which is enough for typical Range Rover customers to complete up to 75% of trips using electric power only.
Range Rover HSE and Autobiography models are already here. Featuring a unique specification, a First Edition is also available throughout the first year of production. Later this year the new Range Rover SV line will also provide an exquisite interpretation of Range Rover luxury and personalisation. The SV provides for even more scope to create an individual vehicle with a choice of exclusive design themes, details, and material choices from Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations.
Inside the sumptuous cabin is where the 2022 Range Rover really appears to push the boundaries of what is possible. It’s here where new thinking takes over from tradition. An example is the new Range Rover’s revolutionary integration with Amazon Alexa. Using intuitive natural voice commands, the Range Rover steps beyond touchscreens and button interfaces.
The vehicle’s designers say Alexa capabilities will allow the driver to manage everything from favourite infotainment features and music track selection to navigation or phone contacts – all while keeping their hands on the wheel, and eyes on the road.
Working in addition to Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto, Alexa voice AI is embedded within the new Range Rover, so users experience seamless interactivity and next-level convenience. Alexa capabilities also allow those onboard to check the news, weather and for any scheduled meetings using simple voice commands. The system can even turn on your lights at home and connect to other Alexa-enabled devices.
Another new feature is the Range Rover’s Power Assisted Doors. The first Land Rover to feature these, the doors boast integrated hazard detection and anti-pinch safety features, which enhance its soft door close capability. All four passenger doors are power assisted.
But because some things never go out of style, the practical two-piece split tailgate that has been a Range Rover hallmark since 1970 remains, albeit updated for 2021, with a series of new technologies providing greater versatility and convenience.
Evolving an icon is no easy thing. As far as challenges go it must surely equate to many sleepless nights, which is perhaps why the formula is only refined when absolutely necessary. Yet Land Rover has pulled it off again. The Range Rover remains the only vehicle you’ll ever need.