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Range Rover gets new 4.4l TDV8

Land Rover celebrates four decades of Range Rover SUV supremacy with newfangled TDV8 power.
Land Rover celebrates four decades of Range Rover SUV supremacy with newfangled TDV8 power.
As we predicted last month, Land Rover's signature SUV range has been buoyed by 4.4l TDV8 power.

The new 4.4l V8 engine is due to be launched in Land Rover’s domestic UK market by October, replacing the current 3.6l TDV8.

Statistically this new V8 engine outperforms the current 3.6l version, but not by much. Power is up by 30 units from 200- to 230kW, with peak rotational force swelling from 640- to 700Nm – improvements of only 15%.

Those increases in engine output trim the benchmark 0-100km/h sprint time from 9.2- to 7.6 sec, whilst top speed increases by 9km/h over the 3.6 V8 to 209km/h, primarily thanks to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.

The real advantage of Range Rover’s new 4.4l V8 diesel is in terms of consumption and emissions, where it consumes only 10.2l/100km (10% less than the current TDV8) and emits only 264g/Co2 per km.

Two additional gears – a world of difference

Taking most credit for the larger engine’s efficient gains over the 3.6l TDV8 is an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. Boasting a more generous ratio spread and exceptionally tall overdrive gear, the ZF transmission is operated by only two internal clutches - minimising friction.

Other clever engineering features incorporated as part of the ZF transmission upgrade include a recalibrated torque converter, which enacts lock-up as soon as possible to reduce transmission slippage.

In cold conditions the ZF transmission operates in the lowest gear possible to coax the engine to peak operational temperature with the necessary urgency.

Although the new Range Rover TDV8 does not feature absolute stop-start engine technology, it does have an idle control mechanism whereby the transmission disengages 70% of the vehicle’s drive when stationary.

As part of the ZF transmission upgrade the Range Rover’s Terrain Response system adds new functionality. A Gradient Acceleration Control enables safe traversing of extreme gradients even when the Hill Descent Control has not been engaged.

The Terrain Response system’s configuration has also been altered – its selector rotary switch has been replaced with a new switch control. This change is due to the Range Rover gaining a Jaguar XF sourced selector dial to control primary drivetrain functions, replacing the traditional shift lever.

Trim and styling changes accompanying the new TDV8 engine are minimal. Accessing the cabin you’ll notice new illuminated tread plates and from the outside there is a revised grille design and side vents around the front third of the vehicle. Extra cost options (to celebrate Range Rover’s 40th anniversary this year) tally a range of five new alloy wheels designs, a revised bumper with fog lamp surrounds and stainless steel exhaust ends.

Local buyers can expect to see the new 4.4l TDV8 Range Rover available deep into the fourth quarter of this year.

The new TDV8 engine is bigger yet better. Does this showcase the way forward for large SUV drivetrain technology? Discuss it here...

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