2023 Land Rover Range Rover

Land Rover invented the luxury SUV when it started importing the Range Rover to the U.S. in the 1980s. Before that, rugged and capable Land Rovers were going where no vehicles had gone before, from the desert to the Arctic. Despite off-road prowess, the brand gained notoriety for building SUVs that broke down frequently and expensively. Even today, the brand retains its reputation, as Consumer Reports’ reliability data confirms. Used Land Rovers are risky purchases. Still, the Land Rover Discovery, Range Rover, and Range Rover Sport offer comfortable interiors, powerful engines, and a presence that makes them popular choices for Hollywood stars and British aristocrats alike. The Defender has matured into a luxe off-roader, losing some charm but gaining creature comforts. The brand is now part of Jaguar Land Rover, which is owned by Tata, a conglomerate based in India.

The redesigned Range Rover continues its legacy of pushing boundaries, with new tech and an elegant design. The standard engine is a mild-hybrid turbo inline-six that is smooth and powerful. The ride is steady and controlled, thanks in part to the air suspension, which also lowers the vehicle automatically for easy entry and exit. Handling is responsive but not agile. Controls are too complicated and distracting. The Range Rover is offered in four-, five-, and seven-seat configurations in the long wheelbase version. A twin-turbo V8 and a plug-in hybrid (with a 51-mile electric-only range) are also available. An EV will debut in 2024. AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW are standard.