Lockdown launches: Range Rover Sport in line for new powertrains and “Carbon” model added
A combination of diesel and electric power is on the cards for the Range Rover Sport. The Range Rover will also be upgraded towards the end of this year.
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A new generation of Land Rover’s six-cylinder Ingenium diesel engines is confirmed for introduction on the Range Rover Sport. There is also unique 48V Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) diesel technology, which is scheduled for later introduction.
The new in-line, 3 litre, straight six turbocharged diesel engine is available in three power outputs. At the entry-level is the D250 with 183 kW and 600 Nm followed by the middle model, D300, with 220 kW and 650 Nm on tap. The range topping D350 diesel model emphasises the Range Rover’s high-performance character, delivering 258 kW with torque of 700 Nm powering the luxury SUV from 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The plug-in hybrid electric P400e (2 litre, petrol turbo) is the most fuel-efficient Range Rover Sport and can drive up to 41 km in full electric mode. The powerful PS 300 Ingenium petrol engine (221 kW) combines with a 105 kW electric motor for 297 kW (400 Nm). The PHEV powertrain accelerates the Range Rover Sport from 0-100 km in 6.7 seconds while returning consumption as low as 3.3 l/100 km.
A new Mode 3 cable means a full charge takes less than three hours from a wall box or public charging point, compared to 7.5 hours via a regular Mode 2 cable.
The SV Premium Palette paint colour range has been refreshed with eight new colours, including Tourmaline Brown, Amethyst Grey-Purple and Petrolix Blue.
Enhancements to connectivity, including in-car Wi-Fi, and security, are also on board, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered as standard across all models.
The Ingenium diesel engines with 48V Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) tech will be introduced to the South African market at a later stage. Introduction dates will be confirmed at a later date. The full range of Ingenium diesel engine outputs may be subject to market availability.
Range Rover SVR Carbon Edition:
More exciting news about the Range Rover Sport is a new special addition to the family, the SVR Carbon Edition. From the outside, this sprinter is recognised by carbon fibre detailing and distinctive gloss black 22-inch alloy wheels.
Visible carbon fibre elements include the exposed centre section of the carbon fibre bonnet with integrated cooling vents, the front bumper insert surrounds, main grille and surrounds, mirror covers and tailgate finisher. There are extended trim finishers on the steering wheel. In addition, the SVR Carbon Edition features exclusive illuminated SVR Carbon Edition tread plates.
Distinctive 22-inch five split-spoke lightweight alloy wheels finished in Gloss Black complete the SVR Carbon Edition specification. Body-coloured detailing at the rear and an SVR badge in place of the Land Rover oval also help to identify the SVR.
The SVR is the fastest Range Rover, and the 5-litre supercharged V8 delivers 423 kW and 700 Nm. It will take the SVR only 4.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h and it can reach a top speed of 283 km/h.
The new Range Rover Sport SVR Carbon Edition is scheduled for South African introduction in the fourth quarter of 2020, with pricing to be made available closer to the time. The current SVR will set your bank balance back by around R2.4 million. The rest of the Sport-range prices vary between R1.2 million and up to just over R2 million depending on engine and model choice.
Volkswagen Motorsport driver Jonathan Mogotsi has earned his Nürburgring Permit A ‘Ring Licence’ to qualify to race in the legendary circuit’s 24-Hour from 18 – 19 May 2026.
While the decision to keep the repo rate unchanged offers a degree of short-term stability, if current global events continue for the long term, the prospects for a prolonged high-interest rate environment will place significant pressure on consumer affordability and, in turn, vehicle retail activity.
Toyota has added the Corolla Cross GR-S to its local line-up, a version that introduces sport-focused styling and adjustments to the driving experience. The Corolla Cross GR-S takes the established strengths of the Corolla Cross and adds styling, interior details, and suspension changes that set it apart from the rest of the line-up.
Toyota has added the Corolla Cross GR-S to its local line-up, a version that introduces sport-focused styling and adjustments to the driving experience. The Corolla Cross GR-S takes the established strengths of the Corolla Cross and adds styling, interior details, and suspension changes that set it apart from the rest of the line-up.
Citroën has expanded its South African line-up with the launch of the Basalt, a new SUV-coupé that blends bold styling, everyday practicality, and comfort-focused technology. Positioned as part of the brand’s C-Cubed programme, the Basalt joins the C3 and Aircross, offering a distinctive fastback silhouette and a package tailored to local driving conditions.
When South Africans buy a car, the purchase price is only the beginning of the ownership story. The real cost unfolds over years of fuel stops, service intervals, replacement parts and the occasional unexpected repair.