The rise of the SUV has been unstoppable. What was once the preserve of off-roading farmers and workmen is now a school-run staple. The chunky work horse has become a status symbol in the school car park.
Many 4x4s have forgotten their roots, or had no roots in the first place.
However, one car manufacturer clings to those roots and still leads the field. That’s the Land Rover family. Now a successful part of the Jaguar Land Rover clan, these are the true off-roaders.
That’s not to say they haven’t moved with the times. Quite the opposite. The Range Rover Sport, for example, is one of the most luxurious, comfortable and stylish cars on the road. It is driven by footballers with prices reaching the £100,000 mark. But the fact remains, if you take it off road, it becomes a whole different animal. We respect and admire Land Rover for that reason. They consistently produce brilliant road vehicles that pay tribute to their beginnings. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the family.
Range Rover - The Range Rover is the best vehicle in Land Rover’s arsenal. Quite simply, it’s the best 4×4 out on the road. It is luxurious and kitted out to an astonishing spec as standard. Some of its rivals are a little faster, but this 4×4 isn’t built for speed. The biggest competitor in the range is, surprisingly, Porsche. You wouldn’t typically expect Porsche to perform here, but the Cayenne is one of the best out there. But, the latest Range Rover Sport takes the crown once and for all.
Range Rover Evoque – This is the Range Rover’s lighter, smaller and more stylish younger brother. It is new to the Land Rover family but it’s already winning plaudits across the motoring world. Critics praise its practical, compact design and stunning good looks. It’s also the most fuel efficient Land Rover on the market, and comes in at an affordable price. Don’t think for a second you’ll sacrifice on off-road ability either. The Evoque has all the terrain response of the others.
Discovery – The more affordable Discovery is the back-to-basics Land Rover. Playing to its strengths, it the perfect adventure vehicle. It has a powerful towing capability and is practical to its core. It has stadium seats for the kids and more boot space than you know what to do with. Best of all, it’s smooth and comfortable out on the road. The Sport version is a streamlined, compact version of the classic and comes in a little cheaper.
Defender – The Defender is the rough and ready work horse we all know and love. The design has barely changed from the original Land Rover concept. It is rugged, iconic and still the best choice for the true adventurers. Its four wheel drive is still top of its class providing strong, dependable power when you need it most. They may have kept the classic design on the outside, but the inside is comfortable and modern. The perfect combination.
Land Rover has an iconic status in our hearts and long may it continue! Which is your favourite model?
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