Range Rover Velar: Does it live up to its off-road pedigree?

Land Rover takes the wraps off the Range Rover Velar

02 March

Land Rover has unveiled its Range Rover Velar ahead of its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

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Named after the prototypes of the late 1960s, the mid-sized SUV is the fourth entry into the Range Rover line-up and will fill "the white space" between the smaller Evoque and the Range Rover Sport, the company says. It's expected to rival the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLC.

Six engine configurations will be available at launch, ranging from a 178bhp 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel to a 375bhp 3.0-litre supercharge V6 petrol unit, which offers a zero to 60mph time of 5.3secs.

Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, while standard equipment such as hill decedent control and low traction launch help deliver the power on loose road surfaces.

AutoExpress says the interior matches the company's new design language, with a "triple-screen set-up on the fascia" as well as a 12.3ins thin film transistor (TFT) "virtual cockpit display".

However, the coupe design means the driving position "isn't quite as commanding as in the Range Rover Sport or Range Rover", adds the magazine, although "six-footers should have no problem sitting upright" in both the front and rear seats.

The Range Rover Velar goes on sale it July at a price of £44,830, around £15,000 more than the entry-level Range Rover Evoque and £15,000 less than the Range Rover Sport.

Range Rover Velar SUV teased ahead of March reveal

22 February

Land Rover has released the first teaser image of its new coupe-bodied mid-size SUV, which is expected to rival the Mercedes GLC Coupe and BMW X6.

Called the Velar, a name derived from the firm's prototype cars of the late 1960s, it will enter the range above the entry-level Evoque and below the larger Range Rover Sport.

The single teaser image reveals a sloping rear roofline and horizontal tail lights that emphasise the car's coupe silhouette. There's also a large panoramic glass roof leading to two air ducts, which could be used to reduce drag over the short rear wing.

Chief designer Gerry McGovern says the Velar is "the avant garde Range Rover", adding: "It brings a new dimension of glamour, modernity and elegance to the brand. The Range Rover Velar changes everything."

It has been "refined for every occasion" and "every terrain", Land Rover says, and features an array of technology mixed with "sustainable materials" for off-road driving.

Although there are no details on performance or engine specs, AutoExpress claims the Velar could have "a starting figure of around £45,000".

Land Rover will reveal more information on 1 March, with a public debut expected at the Geneva Motor Show a week later.