Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, a key part of the updated Range Rover is the new 510PS 5-litre supercharged LR-V8 petrol engine. With power increased by 29%, plus a claimed improvement in refinement, the new engine also reduces fuel consumption by 7.3% (to 19mpg on the EU cycle) and drops CO2 emissions by 7.4% (to 348g/km).

While the popular 3.6-litre TDV8 diesel option remains, with only minor improvements deemed necessary, the exterior styling has been subtly revised. New headlights, a new grille and new bumper designs are the main features of the latest Range Rover’s looks. While the classic silhouette has been retained, the side of the vehicle now has three-stripe LED indicators and new vents and this theme is continued through to the new LED rear light clusters which again have three-stripe indicators.

Interior improvements are intended to enhance the premium feel, with a new luxury-grade leather for headlining, pillar and door casings. Fascia buttons are now in a satin chrome-plated finish, while the black satin and natural wood finishes throughout are enhanced by the Range Rover’s improved waterfall interior lighting system.

Claimed as a world first, the dual-view touch screen allows the driver and passenger to view different images simultaneously. While the passenger watches a DVD, the driver can continue to follow navigation instructions. Traditional instruments have also been replaced by the world’s largest automotive configurable 12in Thin Film Transistor screen, showing virtual dials and graphic displays.

Adaptive Dynamics technologies have been added to further improve the Range Rover's ride quality. All-terrain performance is enhanced by updates to the Terrain Response and Stability Control systems.

The 2010 Range Rover has a more powerful braking system and new active safety aids, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Trailer Stability Assist, Emergency Brake Assist, enhanced Understeer Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Automatic High Beam Assist and a surround camera system.

Also revealed at New York are the latest Range Rover Sport and Discovery 4 models, which also benefit from the latest engines and other improvements. Land Rover is introducing two new engines for the 2010 model year following a joint development programme with Jaguar. While the LR-TDV6 3.0-litre diesel engine is also shown alongside the LR-V8 supercharged petrol engine, a wide range of existing engines is still available.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Land Rover