A 3.0-litre straight-six Ingenium engine now powers the Range Rover Velar. Arguably the most interesting news is that it’s available in 48-volt mild hybrid with all-wheel drive variant. This uses a Belt integrated Starter Generator to harvest energy normally lost under deceleration. The energy is stored in a 48V lithium-ion battery and is then used to assist the engine when accelerating.
The new 294kW P400 engine generates up to 550Nm of torque and has an electric supercharger, as well as a twin scroll turbocharger.
Velar features Land Rover’s state-of-the-art infotainment system, Pivi Pro. This has crisp new graphics and very fast responsiveness thanks to a new electrical architecture. Owners can access software updates ‘over-the-air’ reducing the need to visit a retailer.
Embedded data connection means owners have access to the latest maps, apps and vehicle software modules with updates scheduled via the touchscreen at a time to suit them.
Range Rover Velar has Active Road Noise Cancellation to ensure smooth, near silent ride. This works like a pair of high-end noise cancellation headphones, constantly monitoring vibrations from the road surface and calculating the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the noise heard by the occupants.
The noise cancellation system even adjusts the level and position of sounds played into the cabin based on the number of passengers and their position inside the vehicle by using the seatbelt sensors.
Velar has a new design steering wheel with integrated smart buttons. A new drive selector replaces the rotary gear selector.
MODEL RANGE
R-Dynamic S P250 (184kW/365Nm): $87,000
R-Dynamic SE P250 (184kW/365Nm): $92,000
R-Dynamic SE D200 MHEV (150kW/430Nm): $96,000
R-Dynamic SE P400 MHEV (294kW/550Nm): $117,000
R-Dynamic HSE P400 MHEV (294kW/550Nm): $127,000
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Range Rover dealer for drive-away prices.