2020 Range Rover Velar SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition

The 2020 high-performance Range Rover Velar will be known for its unique blend of high-end elegance, an abundance of utility space, and tremendous power.

Horizontal lines and bold rectilinear forms pretty well describe the exterior. Sitting behind the wheel, power folding and heated side mirrors with approach lights complement perforated power front seats with full extended leather upgrade. These heated and cooled power front seats have massage lumbar and memory. I enjoyed the massage so much, I hated to get out of the car!

Owners have the choice of wood or metal trim inserted into the section of the door between the upper and lower panels. It is easy for cargo or passengers to move in and out with the 40-20-40 split fold second row. Heated seats ensure comfort for those in the back during cold times.

The driver enjoys heated leather steering wheel with power adjustable column, allowing for personalizing the luxurious good looks and driving tone.

Velar is powered by a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 gas engine. Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) tuned this engine to cranks out 550 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque. This power is coupled through an 8-speed automatic transmission with aluminum paddle shifters. As for the running fuel cost, I averaged 22 mpg driving mostly in the city streets, plus some highways.

However, the powertrain is not smooth and the infotainment system can be challenging. However, finer details like rotary knob on the console that pops up when you start the engine, are easy to use and quite functional.

This fully-loaded SVAutobiography model comes with All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics. Other technologies that help you deal with tricky terrain conditions include Terrain Response system, Hill Start Assist, Electronic Air Suspension, Low Traction Launch, and Hill Descent Control. This vehicle is ready to take its superb luxury and power on or off road.

Velar has premium infotainment and connectivity. Land Rover calls the infotainment system Touch Pro Duo and is standard in every Velar. As the name implies, this is a dual-display system with navigation. This futuristic-looking duo of 10″ touchscreens makes a strong visual statement, but can be a little overwhelming unless you have excellent skills and knowledge about technology. Which I do not!

Connectivity capabilities include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and USB ports.

Ultimately the sound is produced by the Meridian Surround Sound System.

Each time I used the push start button, I always had to pause momentarily and figure out my next move. Admittedly, I became more adapt with the technology as my driving week’s drive proceeded.

Outside, the generally boxy shape with generous amount of volume that extends behind the rear wheels provides more legroom and luggage storage. The streamlined bodywork and the rear roof spoiler create a sleek proportion to its size.

Rich and good looks plus a stylish driving character are placed on the foundation of numerous driving assist and safety technologies, such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The total package makes Velar a real competitor in the luxury car field.

Range Rover Velar handles somewhat sporty with great acceleration, and carries at base price of $56,300. The SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition is charismatic and powerful, but its $90,790 price tag may be a considerable obstacle.

All Land Rover vehicles are covered by a 4-year or 50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. During the warranty period, the vehicle is also covered by the Land Rover Roadside Assistance program. The sheet metal is covered by a 6-year, unlimited-mileage corrosion perforation warranty.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].