2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This five-passenger wagon fills a price gap between Land Rover's LR3 and its ultraluxury Range Rover models, but is smaller than either and competes with sporty SUVs such as the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. Based on LR3's underskin architecture, Range Rover Sport comes as the HSE model with a 300-hp V8 and as the Supercharged version with a 390-hp V8. Both engines are sourced from Jaguar, which is owned by Land Rover's parent company, Ford. A 6-speed automatic is the sole transmission. All-wheel drive with low-range gearing is standard and includes Land Rover's Terrain Response system, designed to automatically tailor AWD performance to specific off-road conditions. Also included are ABS, height-adjustable air suspension, and traction/antiskid control. So are front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and a navigation system. Standard on Supercharged, available on HSE are wood interior trim, heated seats, and Land Rover's Dynamic Response suspension system designed to counteract body lean in turns. DVD entertainment is optional.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.

Our Best Buys include Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.

New or significantly redesigned models include Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Saab 9-7X.