2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport - Review

The Basics:

All-new for 2014, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport is lighter, more efficient, and more technologically advanced. Still defining the sportier end of the luxury SUV segment with its style and ability, the 2014 Range Rover Sport promises to be the best version yet.

New features for the 2014 model includes so-called "5+2" third-row seating, allowing occasional transport of up to seven people, with full-time seating for five.

A new supercharged, 340-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 engine replaces the previous V-8 engine in base models, improving gas mileage and performance at the same time. The performance gains aren't from added power, however, but from weight savings.

The 2014 Range Rover Sport's all-aluminum construction and more extensive use of composite and other lightweight materials have shaved about 800 pounds from the last  model's curb weight. Now weighing about 4,727 pounds in V-6 form or 5,093 in more potent V-8 form, the Range Rover Sport is on the lighter end of the SUV spectrum.

An eight-speed automatic transmission sourced from ZF is standard in all models, executing shifts in 200 milliseconds, and offering optional steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for more involvement.

Four trim lines are available in the 2014 Range Rover Sport: the base SE and upgrade HSE, both outfitted with the supercharged V-6 engine; the Supercharged, with a 510-horsepower supercharged V-8 engine; and the Autobiography, which shares the 510-horsepower V-8, but adds a range of unique design elements.

All 2014 Range Rover Sport models come nicely equipped, including custom Meridian audio systems (three in total, ranging up to 1,700 watts and 23 speakers); advanced safety systems aided by cameras; an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment interface; and of course the latest generation of Land Rover's proven traction management system, Terrain Response 2.

Two different four-wheel drive systems are available; one a more all-wheel-drive type system, with a Torsen differential distributing torque at a default 42/58 split front-to-rear. Up to 62 percent of engine torque can be sent to the front axle, and up to 78 percent can be sent rearward with this Torsen-based setup.

For more serious off-road capabilities, a dual-range high/low transfer case option is also available, to better control wheel speeds in technical off-road sections. A dynamic active rear locking differential is available with the dual-range transfer case system, further enhancing the 2014 Range Rover Sport's off-road ability.

Adjustable suspension ride height, advanced electronics, and much more also enhance the Range Rover Sport's capabilities on-road and off--but we'll have to get behind the wheel before we can evaluate them in relation to the current model.

Look for more on the 2014 Range Rover Sport in this space soon.