The Range Rover For 2006
Published: 28th December 2004
Range Rover
Supreme breadth of capability
The Range Rover for 2006 gains two powerful, Jaguar-derived petrol engines, which offer more performance and are predicted to have better fuel economy than the single outgoing V8 petrol. Now heading the line-up is a supercharged 291 kW (400 bhp SAE) 4.2-litre engine, with maximum torque of 560 Nm (420 lb ft SAE). It offers over 35 percent more power than the outgoing V8, over 25 percent more torque - which contributes to more refined driving - and is projected to be around 1.5 seconds faster from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph).
The new, naturally aspirated 225 kW (305 bhp SAE) 4.4-litre V8 is also quicker and more powerful than the outgoing V8. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time is projected to be around half-a-second faster and maximum power is increased by 15 kW (20 bhp).
Both engines are lightweight and use advanced torque-based engine management systems that, together with drive-by-wire throttle control and variable camshaft phasing (on the naturally aspirated), continually adjust the engine to deliver optimum performance, fuel economy and emissions.
For the Range Rover, the Jaguar-sourced engines have been further developed to offer more torque at lower revs and to operate at more extreme angles to cope with tough off-roading. They have enhanced protection from dust and rocks, and are also better water-proofed for Land Rover's tough river-wading requirements.
The new engines are matched to the latest-generation ZF six-speed automatic electronically controlled transmission, which offers outstanding smoothness and response. It uses a centre differential (now electronically controlled) that improves both off-road prowess and on-road handling. Low-range is also available for extreme off-roading.
Steering feel is enhanced and the air suspension with adjustable ride-height is improved, for even better on-and off-road performance and comfort.
In addition, the supercharged version gets performance Brembo front brakes for better stopping power, and revised suspension that delivers flatter handling, for superior high-speed on-road performance.
