Even higher end Range Rover coming?

One of the rumors on the show floor was that Range Rover is experimenting with an even higher end 12-cylinder model.

We also have reliable info that you will see alacantara make its way into the Range Rover headliner as well as in the inserts of the RR's seats for this model.

MercBasher - 3/25/2005 11:20:59 PM

+1 Boost

Going further upmarket is a significant opportunity - now if Range Rover will extend the wheelbase (8inches or so) at the same time, they could have a real limo competitor. High end sedans (S-class, 7-series etc.) would be very vulnerable. At present the only modern high price SUV is the Porsche Turbo.

That said, if I controlled Range Rover engineering budgets, I would be trying to develop models with hybrid technology in order to get better mileage for the European market rather than use up limited engineering resources for a 12 cylinder - guess that makes me boring!

TIER1 - 3/31/2005 5:01:20 AM

+1 Boost

Guys, hate to wake you up, but hybrid technology is a dead end street. Adding 600 lbs weight to the vehicles DOES NOT make them any less gas guzzler or make it more nature-friendly. Wonder why Prius is a flop in Europe ? A two litre diesel engine makes 170 horses in the Passat, while 3,000 ccm will give you 272 HPs in the 535d Bimmer. The former gives 40 mpg, the latter 35; both emit less CO2 than the RX400H due to more efficient fuel burn, and cost about $1,500 more than a traditional gasoline engine vs. the added cost of $3,500 of the Prius (OEM pricing).

Don't be fooled by the marketing guys ...