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By Jonathan Crouch

The fifth generation Range Rover offers a set of unique SU-VIP attributes for those who can afford them. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 129

So many cars claim to be unique but the Range Rover really is, continuing to set the standard in the super-luxury SUV sector. This MK5 model is larger and more sophisticated than its previous generation predecessor, as well as being smarter looking and higher-tech. It's also still unrivalled off road too. More significantly perhaps, new technology makes it better on tarmac. And it's also much more economical than you might expect, thanks to mild hybrid and Plug-in hybrid engine tech. The key qualities remain though, this aluminium-bodied luxury SUV finally good enough to properly combine the imperious qualities of a top luxury saloon with off piste abilities that would be limited only by the skills of its driver. A Rolls Royce in the rough, there's nothing quite like it.

Backgroundword count: 169

This isn't just a new fifth generation Range Rover: it's the beginning of a new Land Rover era. Which is appropriate because the very first Range Rover signalled just such a thing at its launch back in 1970. Just over half a century on, this MK5 design sets the template for the brand's new electric era that'll see full-battery versions of each of its models available before the end of the decade - starting with a full-EV Range Rover in 2024. Before that though, right now, there are mild hybrid and PHEV plug-in engine options available as part of a model line that's been completely redesigned, upgraded and updated following a five year, seven million hour testing programme. Don't be fooled, in other words, by the familiar-looking front end. The car now sits on a completely new 'MLA-Flex' platform that's 80% aluminium; and as before, there are short and long wheelbase body styles, the latter now with a 7-seat option for the first time. Lots to talk about then.

Driving Experienceword count: 231

Full EVs may be in the Range Rover's future but for the time being, the line-up is very much fossil fuel-based. Three conventional six cylinder engines offer 48V mild hybrid tech. Choose between a 3.0-litre diesel with 300PS (D300) or 350PS (D350) outputs; or a 3.0-litre petrol unit with 400PS (P400). If you need more, a 4.4-litre twin turbo petrol V8 P530 model (with an engine borrowed from BMW) sits at the top of the line-up offering 530PS and 750Nm of torque, powering you to 62mph in just 4.6s. There are two Plug-in hybrid options as well, both using the 3.0-litre petrol turbo unit paired with a 38.2kWh battery offering an impressive 62 mile all-electric range. Choose between a P440e model (total output 440PS) or a faster P510e version (total output 510PS). All the engines available are paired with an 8-speed auto gearbox with 4WD, low range capability and the brand's usual 'Terrain Response 2' tech offering different drive modes for challenging surfaces. The car can drive through water as deep as 900mm and the 295mm ground clearance can be raised further 145mm in the highest air suspension setting. On tarmac, a 48V anti-roll system counters cornering body roll. And standard four-wheel steering turns the rear wheels by up to 7-degrees in the opposite direction to the fronts at low speeds, reducing the turning circle to a family hatch-like 10.95 metres.

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