2007 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Land Rover's sport-oriented SUV is based on the underskin architecture of its larger, seven-passenger LR3. Range Rover Sport seats five. It 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. It includes Land Rover's Terrain Response system, which automatically tailors AWD performance to specific off-road conditions. A locking rear differential is optional. All Range Rover Sports have ABS, traction/antiskid control, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Height-adjustable air suspension and hill-descent control are standard, as are a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, front and rear obstacle detection, and a navigation system. Standard on Supercharged, available on HSE are wood interior trim, heated seats, steering-linked headlights, and Land Rover's Dynamic Response suspension system designed to counteract body lean in turns. DVD entertainment and adaptive cruise control are optional. For 2007, a wireless cell phone link moves from optional to standard.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are the Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Chrysler Aspen, and Lincoln MKX.