Big hulking SUVs are just as popular as ever, although a good portion of the market has moved on to more compact crossovers, which allow you to enjoy the same all-terrain capabilities sans the uncomfortable size. As such, it’s no surprise that a luxury automaker best known for churning out big, hulking SUVs is entering the crossover fray in the form of the Range Rover Velar.
The lowest vehicle in the Range Rover lineup, the SUV stands just 5’5”, making for a ride that feels a lot more like a regular city car. It’s a nice option for folks who want a Range Rover, but aren’t quite happy with massive trucks nor enamored with the quirky Evoque.
The Range Rover Velar comes with three engine options, with the top-end model sporting a supercharged V6 that puts out 380 horsepower and produces enough torque to tow up to 5,500 pounds. It comes in a design that reflects the outfit’s focus on “reductionism,” turning out an SUV that’s the most aerodynamic in the entire Range Rover fleet with just a 0.32 coefficient of drag. Of course, it’s designed to handle itself in difficult terrain, courtesy of an all-wheel drive, adaptive dynamics, four-corner air suspension, and a laundry list of optional traction technologies.
Features include 34.4 cubic feet of space in the boot, full LED headlights, adaptive electronically locking rear differential, and 22-inch wheels. Inside, it gets two 10-inch touchscreens with Land Rover’s infotainment system, a five-inch electronic dashboard, and a whole host of creature comforts.
Pricing for the Range Rover Velar starts at $49,900.
