The first generation model was known as the Range Rover until almost the end of its run, when Land Rover introduced the name Range Rover Classic to distinguish it from its successors.
The Range Rover was designed and developed by a team led by Charles Spencer King.
The first-generation Range Rover, the Range Rover Classic was produced between 1970 and 1996.
After 25 years from the introduction of the first-generation Range Rover, the second-generation Range Rover (model-designation "P38A" or "LP") was introduced for the 1995 model year, with an updated version of the Rover V8 engines. The Second generation was produced between 1994 and 2001.
In 2002, the third-generation model ("LM") was introduced which saw the model move further up-market. The manual transmission was dropped entirely, leaving only the automatic transmission.
The new design used monocoque (unibody) construction with 4-wheel independent air suspension. Air suspension allowed variable ride height and achieved similar axle articulation to the previous live axle design. This retained off-road abilities while improving on-road performance. The new Range Rover's introduction in late 2002 as a 2003 model for the North American market resulted in the Range Rover and Ford Expedition (also new for 2003) being the only two SUVs in the full-size sport utility class with 4-wheel independent suspension systems at that time.
The fourth generation Range Rover was introduced in September 2012. The vehicle was completely redesigned. As a special feature the Range Rover now has a aluminum monocoque body which is 150 kg lighter than the steel bodywork of the previous model. These and other lightweight components including the chassis result in up to 420 kilograms less empty weight of the base model. It was also the first time in this vehicle through a combination of LED and fiber optics a headlamp "signature" created which gives the Range Rover a unique and individual look at the design of the headlights.
The fifth generation Range Rover, breathtaking modernity, peerless refinement and unmatched capability, was revealed on 26 October 2021 at the Royal Opera House in London. It writes the next chapter in the unique story of pioneering innovation that has been a Range Rover hallmark for more than 50 years. It was launched with a range of mild hybrid diesel and petrol engines, with plug-in hybrids and an all-electric model to follow two years later. All engines are coupled with an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a low-range capability and supply power to the wheels through an all-wheel-drive system which can decouple the front axle to improve efficiency under certain driving conditions. You can also specify the four-seater arrangement that includes a centre console dividing the two rear seats along with an electrically operated tray table and a mini-fridge.
Our website covers, what dear Jeremy Clarkson once defined as "the REAL Range Rover". Of course also the Range Rover Velar (L560), the Range Rover Evoque (L538), Range Rovers Sport (L320 and L494) are great cars with outstanding features, yet the focus of RANGE-ROVERS.net is on the top-of-the-line model THE Range Rover and their history.
Apropos Clarson: if you can provide a highres copy of the Top Gear video where the Range Rover outruns an H2 Hummer and a Cadillac Escalade, please do contact us, many thanks :)
