The 2005 Range Rover reportedly swaps BMW power for a retuned version of the 4.2-liter V8 from Jaguar, which is part of Ford like Land Rover. Horsepower should check in at 300-320 and be delivered through the 6-speed automatic Jaguar uses instead of the current 5-speed. A supercharged option with up to 370 hp is being whispered, but it's not a sure thing yet.

We are sure of the new "Range Rover Sport" expected in spring 2005, likely as an early '06 model and perhaps with a different name. Known as L320 inside Land Rover, it's built on a cut-down version of the new "T5" body-on-chassis platform that premieres with the redesigned 2005 Discovery. The Sport should look much like the recent sleek Range Stormer concept, but with four conventional doors instead of two wowie "beetle-wings." Wheelbase should be around 106 inches for an overall package sized roughly halfway between the Discovery and Range Rover. Price should be closer to the "Rangie's," however. One British source implies the supercharged Jaguar V8 will be the only Sport engine, but we'd expect a normal V8 too. Look for standard 6-speed automatic, all-independent air suspension, big wheels and tires, a luxury-equipped 5-seat cabin, and a full complement of electronic wizards. The last should include Land Rover's new "Terrain Response" system with six driver-selectable settings that allow tailoring the operation of powertrain and brakes to various on- and off-road conditions.