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All-new Range Rover revealed

Land Rover is ready to take the luxury SUV segment to another level when its all-new Range Rover is launched early in 2013.

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The fourth generation of the iconic SUV has been redesigned from the ground up and, said to be lighter, stronger and more refined, Land Rover boasts this is its most capable and most luxurious model yet. You can see for yourself when it is launched here in January, 2013.

WORLD FIRSTS


For now, Land Rover has revealed the Range Rover uses an all-aluminium monocoque structure – claimed to be a world first for an SUV – that is 39% lighter than the current version’s steel body. Total vehicle weight savings are as much as 420kg, the automaker said, which contributes to increased agility and reductions in fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

In addition to the lighter body, the Range Rover also gains an aluminium front and rear chassis architecture and a completely new four-corner air suspension that is said to offer flatter cornering with a more intuitive steering feel.

John Edwards, Land Rover's global brand director, said: “The new Range Rover preserves the essential, unique character of the vehicle – that special blend of luxury, performance and unmatched all-terrain capability.

“However, its clean-sheet design and revolutionary lightweight construction have enabled us to transform the experience for luxury vehicle customers, with a step change in comfort, refinement and handling.”

And while the Range Rover retains its recognisable profile, the new model also sees a bold new interpretation of the marque’s iconic design, channelling a look first seen on the trendy Evoque.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover's design director, said: “Designing the next generation Range Rover, following more than 40 years of success, came with a huge responsibility to protect the DNA of such an icon. Our design team worked incredibly hard to capture the elegant proportions and pure surfaces which have been a feature of the best Range Rover designs.”

OUTFITTING AN ICON


Along with its fresh look, the Range Rover will also showcase a number of features that add to its improved refinement, including the next generation of Land Rover’s Terrain Response system. The very handy system analyses the current driving conditions and automatically selects the vehicle settings most suited to them.

Within the cabin, noise-reducing measures complement the new, more rigid, body - among them acoustic lamination of the windscreen and door glass.

To allow occupants to take in the quieter, more sumptuous environment, the Range Rover’s cabin benefits from 118mm more legroom, with the option of a new two-seat “executive class” package for top rear-seat luxury.

Other interior luxury features include a Meridian surround-sound audio system and powered upper and lower hatches and driver assistance technologies.

Despite its high level of comfort and refinement, the Range Rover will also be expected to deliver on (and off) road. To this end, prospective customers will have the choice of V8 petrol engines and TDV6 and TDV8 diesel engines.

The all-new Range Rover, the automaker said, will be a “truly global car”, sold in 160 markets worldwide. South Africa will again be one of those markets – it goes on sale here from January, 2013. Expect a Range Rover Sport to be added to the line-up at a later date, too.

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