The Range Rover Gets A Powerful New V8 Diesel, Improved Cabin And More Technology
Published: 26th May 2006
The new TDV8 diesel engine is matched to the latest-generation ZF six-speed automatic electronically controlled transmission, which offers extra smoothness and response. The CommandShift facility allows for manual gearchanges, improving the dynamic nature of the driving experience when required. Low-range is also provided, for extreme off-roading and heavy-duty towing.
Both the new gearbox and transfer box have a wider ratio spread than the outgoing units. Together, these provide for a 12 per cent lower first gear, giving better off-road control and power, while the top gear is now 28 per cent higher, to consolidate the benefits of the new engine’s excellent refinement and economy.
This latest Land Rover diesel engine was developed specifically for Range Rover, jointly by Land Rover and Ford engineers. It is built at Ford Motor Company’s high-tech diesel engine facility in Dagenham, England.
Improved Cabin Boosts Stowage Space & Premium Quality
All 2007 Range Rovers have revised cabins, to improve storage space and further increase the premium ambience.
"Most of the changes are very practical, designed to enhance day-to-day living with the vehicle," says Land Rover’s design director Geoff Upex, "with much improved stowage and better siting of controls. The vehicle is now equipped with twin gloveboxes and higher quality centre console storage and cupholders. The new electronic park brake and off-set gearchange are better oriented towards the driver.
"The facia is all new - to meet the latest safety standards - so we’ve taken the opportunity to refine the highly regarded architectural design theme, increasing both luxury and craftsmanship. The new facia design also improves the renowned Range Rover ‘command view’ driving position."
The smart new door casings feature more extensive use of wood. Instruments have new graphics and the bezels now have a richer alloy finish. The centre console switchgear has been redesigned to improve both functionality and its tactile appeal.
The front seats are new too, and now offer the option of a cooling function, as well as the standard heating feature. For an even quieter interior, the Range Rover now gains acoustic laminated windscreen glass, reducing transmitted exterior noise by up to 6 dB.
An enhanced airbag strategy relocates the side airbags, formerly in the doors, to the seats, to improve cushioning in the event of a side impact. A driver’s side inflatable knee bolster is also added to all models, and the passenger front airbag has been redesigned.
The air-conditioning system has been comprehensively revised, to offer improved cooling, better airflow distribution, lower noise and greater comfort levels. The new 9 kW evaporator (replacing a 7.8 kW version) enables 15 per cent more heat to be removed from the cabin. In addition, new centre top vents help improve ventilation for front-seat occupants, and lead to a significant reduction in airflow noise at high fan speeds.
Terrain Response & ‘E’ Differentials Boost Off-Road Prowess
Technical upgrades for the Range Rover at 2007 model year include the addition of Terrain Response, Land Rover’s patented technology to make off-road driving easier. Terrain Response allows the driver to choose one of five terrain settings via a rotary control, located on the newly redesigned centre console of the Range Rover.
Terrain Response then implements the most appropriate settings for the vehicle’s many advanced electronic controls and traction aids, including ride height, engine torque response, Hill Descent Control, electronic traction control and transmission settings.
