Though not as spry as some domestic SUVs that cost far less, a Range Rover performs well on-road. Unlike many others in this class, the ride is delightfully supple. Suspensions absorb bumps and ruts easily and allow only a little bouncing on wavy surfaces. All models feel rock-solid on the roughest roads, but lower-profile tires on the recent 4.6 HSE do impair ride comfort. The 4.0-liter V8 is smooth and quiet, even at full throttle. Although it feels somewhat lethargic with the automatic transmission in Normal shift model, performance improves in Sport mode. Still, a late model with the 4.0-liter V8 took 11.4 seconds to reach 60 mph--not exactly a swift jaunt. That model averaged only 14.3 mpg, in a trial that included a lot of highway driving. Acceleration with the 4.6-liter is a bit better, but fuel economy dips to close to 10 mpg. Despite pronounced body roll in turns, Range Rover clings to the road quite well. Corners may be taken with good grip and reassuring stability. However, a relatively soft suspension and boxy profile make the early Range Rover sensitive to strong crosswinds. Not everyone cares for the buslike driving position on early models. Steering is heavy and slow, and requires frequent correction to maintain the desired direction, especially in crosswinds. Climate controls on early models are confusing, but better after 1994. Power-window controls are mounted at an awkward angle on the center console, and many switches are hard to reach while driving. Passenger and cargo room are abundant in the long-wheelbase models, with plenty of space for five on richly padded seats. The back seat is huge, though a high step-up into the interior makes entry/exit difficult. Owners get an expansive cargo area, as well as many bins and cupholders, and a host of handy features. Aluminum body panels save weight and are impervious to rust, but they could dent easily and be quite costly to fix. Our test vehicles have suffered a variety of electrical glitches, so be forewarned.

Value for the Money
A Range Rover is extremely capable and comfortable. It's also been considered the ultimate 4x4 in terms of luxury and snob appeal. Still, it's difficult to justify the still hefty prices, when so many competent competitors are on the market. Prices for 1996-up models, with more-modern styling, are far higher than those of earlier-vintage Range Rovers.