2018 RANGE ROVER VELAR FIRST LOOK

2018 RANGE ROVER VELAR FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

There’s a new member of the Range Rover family. Positioned between the entry-level Evoque and the dynamic Sport is the all-new 2018 Velar; referred to as the avant-garde Range Rover.

This 5-seat midsize SUV is based upon the shared Lightweight Aluminum Architecture which underpins the Jaguar F-PACE. Designed to bring a new dimension of modernity and elegance, the Velar envelops the concept of reductionism; “approaching the luxurious, spacious interior as a calm sanctuary, combining elegant simplicity with premium materials and beautiful details” according to the company.

Unique in the segment, the Velar offers a sustainable, premium textile seat material as an optional alternative to leather. From the segment-first flush deployable door handles to the burnished copper detailing, the Velar introduces design trends of future Range Rover models. It also debuts a new infotainment system featuring 2 HD 10” touchscreens.

Three available powertrains include a 180HP 2.0-liter diesel 4-cylinder, a 247HP 2.0-liter gas 4-cylinder and a 380HP supercharged 3.0-liter gas V6. Each engine is mated to an 8-speed transmission with all-wheel drive standard. Max towing capacity of 5,500 pounds is achieved with the V6 which includes Advanced Tow Assist, giving the driver a rotary controller to park a trailer where directed. This model also receives air suspension as standard. And like every Range Rover, the Velar has been engineered for exceptional on-road performance and agility combined with outstanding ride quality and composure.

11 different trim levels are offered priced from around $50,000 with a ceiling of near $90,000.