Pros: Fantastic off-road capabilities; acceleration is gutsy with base V6 and blistering with supercharged V8; improved fuel economy; classy interior; delivers much of the upscale appeal of the original Range Rover at a much lower price
Cons: Even though its pricing significantly undercuts a regular Range Rover, Range Rover Sport is still really expensive; some complicated controls; legroom could be better in both the front and rear; small-item storage in the cabin is only so-so
CG Says: The Range Rover Sport is redesigned for 2014 on a completely new platform. Aluminum-intensive construction enables it to shed about 800 pounds compared to last year’s model, which significantly improves both performance and fuel economy. The top-line 510-horsepower supercharged V8 carries over, but a new 340-hp supercharged V6 replaces last year’s naturally aspirated V8 as the base engine. A 3rd-row seat joins the available features list as well. There are other premium SUVs that offer more value for mainstream shoppers, but none of them can match the Range Rover Sport’s blend of on- and off-road handling, invigorating acceleration, regal cabin appointments, high-tech features, and high-end personality.
