The 2024 Range Rover Sport is an exceptionally versatile SUV. Even the cheapest one rides brilliantly, handles well, and offers reasonable off-road utility. The lineup is an 8 in base form and could climb to a 9 with more off-road features or more power.
Yes, of course. All models have various drive modes for different types of terrain, though it’s worth noting that a low-range transfer case is optional. If you’re planning to go off-road, you’ll want to make sure you’ve selected this feature.
Even the standard drive modes are plenty for trudging through snow or on unpaved roads.
The available adaptive cruise control system’s off-road mode allows drivers to set a speed, and then the Terrain Response system will monitor the path ahead and select a drive mode accordingly. It’s almost too easy.
How fast is the Land Rover Range Rover Sport?
It’s no slouch in any form. The base P360 version uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 to push 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque to the road via an 8-speed automatic. It’s quicker than it feels, perhaps because it’s just so smooth. There’s no sense of urgency, which is just fine for most users.
The P400 trim offers 395 hp for a bit more zip; it runs to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, but it feels quicker all around.
We’re most excited about the P550e, though Land Rover has restricted it to one (sold out, mind you) trim for 2024. This version is worth waiting for as it squeezes an electric motor between the engine and gearbox, which works in conjunction with a 31.8-kwh battery for a total output of 434 hp and 619 lb-ft of torque. It’s about as quick to 60 as the P400, but the ace up its sleeve is a commendable 48 miles of electric range on a full charge. Emissions-free commuting in a Range Rover Sport? Sign us up.
The top P530 uses a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 (yes, that relationship has been rekindled), which runs to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. It’s a thrill machine. In the SV edition, it’s jacked up to 626 hp from its usual 523 hp.
Underneath, all models have a stiff platform with standard adaptive dampers and air springs, which make even the optional 22- and 23-inch wheels ride wonderfully. These SUVs defy their considerable heft and tall driving position by taking on curves with nearly sports car-like precision. The electric power steering offers good heft and reasonable feedback, with a tendency to push more toward on-center when left in Sport mode. The all-wheel-steering system tucks the rear wheels in by as much as 7.3 degrees opposite the fronts to tighten the low-speed turning radius or, with the rear wheels working in concert with the fronts, it can improve highway stability. Eight-cylinder models even have a trick body-roll-control system that uses sensors to predict the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly.
