2008 Land Rover Range Rover

The Range Rover is the flagship Land Rover model sold in the United States and worldwide. First introduced in 1970, the nameplate has been retired and revived numerous times. The third-generation Range Rover was introduced as a 2002 model and remains in production today.

When it was first introduced, the new Range Rover redefined Land Rover's design language for the foreseeable future. Despite being on the market for several years now, the SUV still looks modern next to its rivals.

In 2007, Land Rover made the Terrain Response system standard equipment. A convenient control dial positioned on the center console optimizes a host of powertrain and chassis systems to suit driving conditions. The driver may select one of five available modes to handle situations ranging from normal dry-pavement driving to snow, mud, sand, and extreme rock crawling.

The Range Rover's cabin was also improved during the recent model update. The instrument panel, climate control system, airbag layout, trim fittings, switchgear, and storage facilities have been redesigned to reflect the latest advancements in aesthetics, ergonomics, and technology. Front seats are redesigned to incorporate new whiplash-reducing head restraints. Front seat cool-air ventilation is now available as an option to supplement the standard seat-heating feature.

In 2006, two new engines with superior performance were introduced. The flagship's Supercharged trim level gets an intercooled DOHC 4.2-liter V8 delivering 400 horsepower -- a 35 percent gain over the previous V8. The 420 pound-feet of available torque, up by 25 percent, provides better acceleration.

The Land Rover HSE is now powered by a 4.4-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 engine delivering 305 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque.

The six-speed automatic offers both Sport and CommandShift (manual) modes. An range of electronic controls regulate the center differential as well as the ABS disc brakes, four-wheel traction control, air suspension, dynamic stability control, and hill descent control. Four-corner independent suspension with extra-long wheel travel, air springs, and automatic leveling provides good handling on- and off-road.