Story: Evan “Evo” Yates
Model Tested: Supercharged
Rating: 4
Even though the Range Rover Sport could be dubbed the unofficial Basketball Wives ride—since baller boos cop it as soon as he puts a ring on it—this is still a businessman’s sled. In the cockpit, you’re surrounded by only the finest appointments. Cheap plastic or vinyl is nowhere to be found, which can’t be said for the similarly priced Escalade.
The driving position is high, and the range of vision seems to be much wider than in most vehicles. The only letdown inside is the nearly antiquated navigation/audio head unit, which could be best described as annoying. And you might as well use your phone, ’cause it’s straight up easier and faster. Speaking of phones, the iPhone/iPod jack really isn’t one without a proprietary cable from the dealership (not included!).
The exterior appears as it has for the past half decade, minus the updated LED headlights and the 20-inch wheels that are almost fresh enough to skip the upgrade. And even though the Sport is as heavy as a British FV4034 Challenger 2 (not really), as an SUV, it sure doesn’t feel as hefty as its curb weight suggests. Nimble may not be the word, but compared to any other family hauler out there, it comes pretty close. The 5.0-liter supercharged V8 certainly has the power for sprints, and the righteous Range even has the balls to teach a snobby S-Class owner a lesson in British physics on the highway.
Specs:
Damage: $77,645
Power: 510hp, 461 lb.-ft.
0-60: 5.6 secs.
Gas Cash: 12 city, 17 hwy
Miles Driven: 350
Pictured: 2011 Range Rover Sport HSE
