2023 Range Rover Sport SE: Key Takeaways

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【Summary】The 2023 Range Rover Sport SE is a smaller, more affordable option in the Range Rover lineup. It has a sporty appearance but focuses on on-road refinement and occasional off-road adventures. The interior is luxurious and minimalist, while the 3.0-liter inline-six engine provides ample power and decent fuel economy. The infotainment system has been improved and is now competitive with other brands. However, the Sport SE is not as sporty to drive as its name suggests.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 12:44 AM PT

2023 Range Rover Sport SE: Key Takeaways

The new-for-2023 Range Rover Sport occupies a familiar role in the Range Rover lineup. It is slightly smaller and less extravagant than the full-size Range Rover, but it has a sporty appearance and a more affordable price tag. However, it's important to note that the Sport is not a high-performance SUV like the upcoming Range Rover Sport SV with its 626 horsepower and aggressive suspension and brake package.

Instead, the Range Rover Sport focuses on on-road refinement and occasional off-road adventures. In this review, we'll take a look at the base SE trim, which is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. Despite being priced at $90,245 after options, it offers a true Range Rover experience.

Let's dive into six thoughts on the Range Rover Sport SE:

1. The interior is stunningly beautiful. The Range Rover Sport's cabin combines minimalism and discrete luxury with its slab-sided paneling, artful control design, and dashboard simplicity. The materials used are rich and supple, and the overall design is timeless and classy.

2. The 3.0-liter inline-six engine is impressive. With 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, it offers plenty of power for everyday driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and quick shifts. Additionally, the inline-six engine provides good fuel economy, with 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

3. The infotainment system is no longer a weakness. Land Rover has improved its infotainment system with the introduction of Pivi Pro. Paired with the Range Rover Sport's beautiful screen hardware, including a 13.1-inch central screen and a 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster, the system is easy to use and competitive with the best in the class.

4. The Range Rover Sport is not as sporty to drive as its name suggests. While it offers a comfortable ride, the handling leaves much to be desired. However, Land Rover offers performance options such as rear-wheel steering and a 48-volt electronic active roll system to enhance the driving experience.

5. The design of the Range Rover Sport is captivating. With its clean lines, flush door handles, and gorgeous taillights, it combines a timeless SUV character with a modern and sleek look. The Giola Green paint color of the test vehicle highlights the design's beauty.

6. The Range Rover Sport retains its off-road capabilities. It features an air suspension that can be raised for greater ground clearance, all-wheel drive as standard, and various off-road technologies such as wade-sensing software, off-road cameras, and Land Rover's latest "Terrain Response" system. The SUV also offers low-speed off-road cruise control for more challenging terrains.

Overall, the new Range Rover Sport is an exceptional on-road luxury vehicle. It may not offer the dynamic performance of some competitors, but it excels in styling, interior luxury, and the ability to tackle off-road adventures.