Range Rover 2011 updated

The 2011 Range Rover gets a new V8 diesel engine, eight-speed transmission, two new additions to the terrain response system, subtle external styling changes and new alloys.  The updated range goes on sale here early next year, according to Land Rover Australia spokesman, James Scrimshaw.

A sequentially turbocharged 4.4-litre TDV8 replaces the existing 3.6-litre TDV8 in the Vogue and now gets the eight-speed ZF automatic.  Despite the extra performance, the V8 is cleaner, delivering lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than its predecessor.

The engine also meets Euro 4 emissions standards.  The 4.4-litre has a combined fuel economy figure of 9.4 litres/100km, making this the first Range Rover Vogue ever to dip below 10 litres/100km.

With 230kW and 700Nm torque, the new engine and automatic delivers 14 per cent less CO2 emissions, from 294g/km to 253 g/km.  The engine will hit 100km/h in 7.8 seconds and has a top speed of 210km/h.

Land Rover has fitted the 4.4-litre cars with the same high performance Brembo-based braking system fitted to the 5.0-litre V8 supercharged model.  For 2011, the Vogue retains the same class-leading supercharged engine married to a six-speed ZF automatic.

Developing 375kW/625Nm torque the supercharged V8 hits 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.  For 2011 improvements have also been made to the to the terrain response system with Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.

The eight-speed diesel also gets a rotary gear selector, shared with the Jaguar XF sedan.  The selector knob is flush with the centre console when the ignition is switched off, rising up when it is switched on.

To avoid confusion, the previous terrain response rotary switch has been replaced by a new terrain response switch behind the gearlever.  Inside the cabin there are optional illuminated treadplates for the front doors and improved entertainment system.Exterior changes include new grilles and side vents for the diesel models. 

Meanwhile, the newest small Land Rover has been spotted with four doors. The latest spy shots reveal a heavily camouflaged four-door on European roads last week.

Land Rover has confirmed that the LRX, which is due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September, will be available in two-wheel drive as well as four-wheel drive.  With both two and four-door models in the range, as well as two and four-wheel drive, the company is aiming to lure new buyers into the Land Rover family.

The LRX, which is due here late next year, will wear a Range Rover badge and be slotted above the Freelander and below the Range Rover Sport when it arrives.