2023 Range Rover Sport SE: 6 Key Insights

author: FutureCar Staff    

The 2023 Range Rover Sport maintains its position in the Range Rover lineup, offering a smaller and more affordable alternative to the full-fat Range Rover. While it may look sporty, it is not designed for aggressive track performance. Instead, its focus is on-road refinement and occasional off-road adventures. The base SE trim, equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, provides a true Range Rover experience at a lower price point compared to the base Range Rover P400.

The interior of the Range Rover Sport is truly gorgeous, combining minimalism and discrete luxury. The cabin features slab-sided paneling, artful control design, and a simple dashboard layout. The floating touchscreen serves as the control panel for the car, without any overwhelming displays of wealth. The Range Rover Sport keeps it classy and timeless, prioritizing quality materials and craftsmanship over flashy technology.

The 3.0-liter turbocharged mild-hybrid inline-six engine offers sufficient power with 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. While the V8 option is available, the inline-six engine provides a sweet, tuneful note and impressive fuel efficiency. With a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, the Range Rover Sport delivers a satisfying driving experience.

One area where Land Rover has made significant improvements is in the infotainment system. The Range Rover Sport is equipped with Pivi Pro, a user-friendly system that includes a 13.1-inch central screen and a 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly, making it a joy to use. Land Rover has gone from having one of the worst infotainment systems in the class to being highly competitive with the best systems available.

Despite its name, the Range Rover Sport is not particularly sporty to drive. The adaptive air suspension and comfortable ride make it suitable for long journeys, but the handling lacks the excitement desired by driving enthusiasts. However, Land Rover offers performance options such as rear-wheel steering and a 48-volt electronic active roll system to enhance the driving dynamics for those seeking a more spirited experience.

The design of the Range Rover Sport is a standout feature. The clean and timeless SUV character is evident in the seamless body, flush door handles, and beautiful taillights. It strikes a balance between looking new and retaining the model's heritage. The Sport's design is a splendid evolution of the traditional SUV shape, capturing attention wherever it goes.

For those who want to venture off-road, the Range Rover Sport is equipped with a range of technologies. The air suspension can be raised for greater ground clearance, and the all-wheel drive system comes standard. Additional features include wade-sensing software, off-road cameras, an electronic active differential, and the latest "Terrain Response" system from Land Rover. These systems automatically adjust vehicle settings to suit different terrains, ensuring optimal performance. The Range Rover Sport also offers low-speed off-road cruise control for controlled off-roading.

While the Range Rover Sport can handle light off-road adventures, it excels as an on-road luxury vehicle. It may not offer the dynamic performance of competitors like the BMW X5, but it stands out with its stylish design, luxurious interior, and the occasional thrilling off-road excursion.

FutureCar Staff