By Veeno Dewan

The Land Rover Range Rover remains one the finest luxury SUV on the planet. It is the epitome of class with its imposing looks, distinct British design language and aesthetically pleasing minimalist approach. A   Luxury interior, superb of-road ability and the understated elegance make all Range Rovers incredibly desirable. 2026 sees the introduction of the Land Rover Sport, available in Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid Electric power sources from 355 up to 626 hp.

We tested the Autobiography P550e trim line equipped with numerous options such as the Enhanced Black package with 23-inch wheels and black exterior trim. Deployable side steps and other top line features.  The P550e is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine producing 543 horsepower and paired with a 38.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motor enable 70 – 90 km of EV driving range. The gasoline engine provides another 450 km of gasoline engine driving range.  The transmission is an 8-speed automatic.

Acceleration is rated at 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Of note, this Autobiography model is limited to the P550e powertrain. The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport model comes in 9 trim levels ranging from $94,950 to $195,000. Our P550e came with a base price of $143,200 while various options and delivery -boosted the final tally to $171,860.

Predictably, the Range Rover Sport lush, rich interior matches the smart fastidious exterior. The optional Amethyst Grey- Purple in gloss finish paint on our test version looked incredible with a deep lustrous and was complimented by sumptuous perforated Semi-Aniline leather seats. There are just lashings of the highest quality meticulously finished leather upholstery draping nearly every surface including the dash. Imagine an old-style gentleman club only without the cigar smoke. Instead, the leather emits a properly delicious leathery fragrance! Buyers can also opt for artificial textiles or cowhide. As usual the lighter white and cream colors are just stunning giving the interior the look of luxury yacht or a summer beach villa. Dark colored upholstery dramatically shifts the moods to serious, powerful personas. Stellar design details include dark-tinted chrome accents and the thickly padded, supremely comfortable power -adjustable front seats featuring optional massage and ventilated options.

The dash is a study in minimalist design, with few physical buttons- most of the controls are digital touch. A large curved 13.1-inch infotainment touchscreen takes center stage complementing the driver’s 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, and all Range Rover Sport models come with Amazon’s Alexa and the excellent Range Rover Pivi Pro system. A wireless smartphone charging pad is also integrated. Audio is provided by a 1700-watt, 28-speaker Meridian Signature sound system with headrest imbedded speakers for a surround sound effect, making it an audiophile’s dream. There are two dash storage gloveboxes, while the center console come with its own refrigerated compartment.

The second-row cabin will suit two adults comfortably and three adults at a at tight squeeze. It not super roomy but is impeccably finished as the rest of the cabin and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.4-inch screens is available as an option. The rear seatbacks recline to aid with comfort. The second-row seats fold almost flat, and are electronically operated, while there is also an optional motorized divider for the cargo bay. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport offers 592 Litres of trunk space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,267 Litres with the rear seats folded down. As a final touch, the Range Rover’s signature split rear liftgate can be used as seating for outdoor events with the upper hatch acting as a shelter.

A host of driver-assistance features are standard, including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree exterior camera system. There is also adaptive off-road cruise control.

On the road, The Range Rover Sport has the silky ride and hushed, floating cloud -like ride one would expect, the superbly tuned suspension makes light work of the Sports heavy curb weight. Impressive power delivery and ample mid-range torque are available through the tach range, while transitions between the electric hybrid drive and the gasoline engine are undetectable. With world class off-road capability and high-end interior, the Range Rover has few rivals in this sector. Also not, the 90 Kilometres of EV only range is excellent.

For myself luxury is defined by the following four cornerstones, namely: Space, serenity, comfort and high-quality materials and design. And the Range Rover Sport possesses all these attributes to the hilt. Granted, there is no better sample of luxury stealth wealth perhaps than a Range Rover – the ultimate SUV of choice for the discerning. It is expensive and rightly so. Long may it reign.

Base price: $143,200. As tested with options and delivery- $171,860. More info at www.landrover.ca