Land Rover Range Rover Sport Pre Model 5.0 V8 Supercharged HSE 5dr Car Review - March 2012

For such a big vehicle the Range Rover Sport is surprisingly good on the road, and the big engine responds quickly and enthusiastically to the slightest touch of the accelerator. The body roll is still present to a small extent, but this has reduced significantly from the amount of roll there was in earlier models. The high driving position will certainly appeal to many people, and visibility to the front and rear is good, with plenty of adjustment in the seat too.

The 5.0 litre V8 Supercharged engine is the most powerful that has ever been placed in a Land Rover, and this is certainly reflected in the performance figures. Acceleration from 0-60mph is a speedy 5.9 seconds, and the top speed of 140mph is remarkable for a vehicle that weighs nearly two tonnes. To top it off, this Range Rover Sport is still very competent when driving off road in the lower gears too.

The Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged HSE certainly cuts an improsing profile. Large alloy wheels give the car a quality image, and the black grille is flanked by the headlight clusters which are typical of the Range Rover. The bulging wheel arches also add to the image, with the back end being simple and effective, apart from the small spoiler above the rear window. Many buyers may be put off by the car's decidedly brash image, however.

There are plenty of luxuries and gadgets included to keep people happy, with satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity working well with the CD stereo which has an integrated hard drive. It is also very comfortable with power heated leather seats, and climate control and cruise control both helping to make the driving experience easy and straightforward.

Although it is a little bit smaller than the standard Range Rover, there is still ample space in the large boot, and it can comfortably accommodate five people. Although the reliability of Land Rover as a brand has been improving recently, the J.D. Power survey only gave Land Rover an average rating.

The Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged HSE is certainly a safe car, and there are a number of driver aids such as stability control to help keep all four wheels on the road. It also comes supplied with six airbags should a crash take place.

There is no doubt that buying and owning a Range Rover Sport is an expensive business, especially the 5.0 V8 Supercharged HSE. However, the list price of £67,295 does mean it is quite an exclusive vehicle, and it is also very desirable.

Although the performance figures are spectacular, the economy figures are, as you would expect, dismal. The Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged HSE delivers an average 19.0mpg and falls into the highest VED tax band, M, however the desirability and practicality of the Range Rover brand means that the car is likely to hold its value quite well. The Range Rover Sport is delivered with a three year unlimited mileage warranty and three years’ roadside breakdown assistance.