When it comes to SUVs, there's simply nothing quite like a Range Rover. That certainly seems to be a widely shared view across the motoring industry at least. The third-generation Range Rover sat on the production lines for over ten years, its longevity was in all probability supported by its high popularity globally. While many competitors from German premium manufacturers, such as BMW, Audi and Porsche have threatened to steal its crown, the Range Rover has remained commonly seen as the pinnacle not just for four-wheel drive SUVs, but for luxury cars in general. Now we have an all-new generation Range Rover for 2013, which inevitably has a huge weight of expectations on its shoulders spawned from past success. The new SUV faces the challenges of matching incredibly high standards, if the majority are to continue to believe that it remains ahead of its ever growing and improving competitors, and is still one of the last words in luxury motors. There's a lot of pressure but the makers at Land Rover sound confident that with the new Range Rover they've met and possibly even exceeded those expectations. Importantly the new model looks set to be step-up not only in all-round driving capability, but in terms of practicality, efficiency and also luxury. Thus the excitement grows further. Introducing the new Range Rover Appearance-wise the new Range Rover, much like its predecessor, manages to tell you just what it's all about just from its appearance. You know it's a luxury car because the exterior oozes class, more so then the previous Range Rover in fact which actually felt considerably less flashy next to the majority of premium 4x4s. Land Rover aren't afraid though to show some more fashionable traits on the new model though, which brings its closer in character towards the trendy and compact Range Rover Evoque. Look past all that though the Range Rover still has the kind of large, tall engulfing body a tough 4x4 always carries, although its frame doesn't appear quite as bulky as before. That's not surprising considering the new SUV is now 39 per cent lighter than its predecessor, shedding away as much as 420kg in total. This large weight-loss programme, that would make any fitness trainer proud, has been achieved for the most part thanks to its brand new all-aluminium monocoque bodyshell. The Range Rover is the first SUV ever to have such a body and this benefits it in regards performance, efficiency and handling. So the new Range Rover has been on a diet and is leaning more on fashion, but that shouldn't lead you to believe the SUV has gone softer. Range Rover Equipment Judging by the standards set by the previous Range Rover, not to mention the new model's starting price of £71,295; it'd be fair to expect a cabin packed with standard equipment and high level trim. Happily the new Range Rover delivers, the interior is impressively refined and seating arrangements give you a comfortable and clear view of your surroundings. There are three plush trim levels to choose from starting with Vogue and followed by Vogue SE and Autobiography. Features including climate control, satellite navigation and TV all provided standard. The seats are made of high quality leather and the gadgets can be accessed with easy-to-use buttons surrounded by lovingly crafted panels. Step up to the range-topping Autobiography trim and you'll gain front fog lights, as well as higher grade leather trim inside and larger wheels of up to 22" for the exterior. While the new Range Rover certainly fulfils in the luxury department, the performance and efficiency remain targeted strong points. Performance and drive The new engine range includes a 254bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel and a larger 4.4-litre V8 diesel with 334bhp. For pinnacle performance there is the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine boasting 502bhp. All engines are connected to a sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission. For speed merchants in particular the petrol V8 is highly commendable, giving the Range Rover a 0-60mph sprint time of 5.1 seconds along with a top speed of 140mph. The V6 and V8 diesels meanwhile cover the same sprint in 7.4 and 6.5 seconds respectively but what makes these engines really special is what they offer in terms of efficiency. The V6 diesel averages 37mpg and emits just 196g/km in CO2, an impressive return for a large SUV. The V8 diesel is also respectable for its category with official figures of 32mpg and 229g/km in CO2 emissions. On the road and you can sense how the new lighter bodyshell and four-wheel drive set-up all comes together to give the tall and heavy Range Rover a remarkably composed and smooth drive. Whether you have a diesel or petrol engine under the bonnet, the 4x4 feels comfortable and perky enough to enjoy when taking on the asphalt. At the same, still only a small number of competitors can match the new Range Rover for off-road capability. Benefitting from Land Rover's Terrain Response system, the new Range Rover can survey the terrain and adjust setting electronically to make the car and its giant tyres cope with various low-grip terrains. All put together, the new Range Rover looks well placed to continue the successful legacy left by its predecessor. Those with the money to invest can expect a find blend of relaxing luxury and steely determination neatly melded together. www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JKlem8DjpY
