Range Rover to introduce an "enhanced" Velar
February 13, 2023
When Land Rover first released the Range Rover Velar back in 2017, its design was sublime, arguably the brand's finest work up until that point. The model is still in production, and like most things, it's constantly being refined to become an improved product. Land Rover recently emerged from the drawing board with a more "enhanced and sophisticated" Velar.
With the Velar, aesthetic appeal is everything, an area that has remained a strength for the model. In the enhanced 2023 variant, the SUV retains its toned muscular appearance, however, there have been updates made to the flawless design. The front combines a new grille with slim Pixel LED headlamps, which are said to not only provide greater visibility but have a jewel-like appearance. At the rear, you'll discover revised taillamps that now have a 3D appearance. One of the original Velar's notable design traits was its flush deployable door handles – those have been retained here.
The cabin
At this level you're exposed to niche features such as Active Road Noise Cancellation, treating the vehicle's occupants to a serene cabin. Available through the optional Meridian audio system, the noise cancellation technology in the SUV is said to render it the quietest SUV in its class, where road noise is concerned. A new 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen has been fitted to this updated Range Rover Velar, built into the centre console to have a floating appearance.
For vegans and those with an aversion to animal hide, Land Rover has made this enhanced Range Rover Velar leather-free. They've made use of a combination of materials utilising wool and PU (artificial leather). Again, when dealing with vehicles in this tier, features you never knew existed are present. The Velar has a cabin filtration system which comes standard in the Autobiography. It’s there to reduce harmful allergens and particulates in the cabin air, according to the brand, supposedly giving you better quality air to breathe.
With cars becoming smarter, the Range Rover Velar can update its software wirelessly over the air. You'll no longer have to visit a dealership for this or diagnostics, which can also be done over the air. The day is drawing near when cars will be able to order their replacement parts when needed. Imagine waking up to a hefty tyre bill for a full set of the latest Michelin Pilot Sports.
There are three powertrains on offer in the enhanced Range Rover Velar; electric hybrid, petrol, and diesel. In P400e (electric hybrid) the combination of the petrol engine and the electric motor produces 297kW and 640Nm of torque. Next is the petrol P340, which consists of a 3.0-litre six-cylinder good for 250kW and 480Nm. The oil burner is offered in D200 as well as D300. In the former, you get 146kW and 430Nm of torque from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. For increased output, the D300 3.0-litre six-pot diesel will suffice. It pushes out 221kW and 650Nm. All variants make use of an 8-speed automatic gearbox and an AWD system. Apples for apples, the Range Rover Velar sees itself going up against the Audi Q5, BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and the Porsche Mecan.
Pricing for the upcoming tweaked Range Rover Velar is still to be announced, with deliveries set to commence halfway through 2023.
Words: Gugu Masuku
