2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Pros: Exotic, high-end styling inside and out; off-road ability; comprehensive array of safety and convenience features; lots of options for personalization

Cons: Steep pricing; not quite as practical as many class rivals, so-so ride quality

CG Says: The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar adds a new topline SV Autobiography Dynamic model with a 550-horsepower supercharged 5.0-liter V8. The model range has been revised and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality are now standard. The diesel engine has been dropped. Land Rover introduced the Range Rover Velar for 2018, an SUV that blends the brands’ trademark off-road prowess with exceptionally sleek, urban styling. We categorize the Velar as a premium compact crossover SUV, though it is on the large end of that class; it slots between the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport in size. Velar shares an aluminum-intensive basic platform with its corporate cousin, the Jaguar F-Pace. Three engine choices are offered: a 247-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, a 340-hp or 380-hp supercharged 3.0-liter V6, and the previously mentioned supercharged V8. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, driver-condition monitor, and blind-spot alert. Other available features include a head-up instrument display, panoramic sunroof, adaptive and height-adjustable air suspension, the Land Rover Terrain Response system, and a locking rear differential. Its sexy, luxurious looks seem more suited for Beverly Hills than a rugged backwoods trail, but the Range Rover Velar is well equipped to handle either environ. Land Rover offers a good range of engine choices and other options to tailor a Velar to your tastes and budget, but this is a pricey-for-its-class SUV in any of its forms.