Enhancements To The Range Rover Sport For 2011

21 September 2010

Enhancements to 2011 Range Rover Sport include a new Limited Edition added to the range alongside the sumptuously appointed Autobiography Sport. A new 211PS version of the 3.0 LR‑TDV6 diesel delivers 211PS & 520Nm, achieving same high levels of refinement and response as more powerful 245PS version.

A new engine version, new Limited Edition and fresh features enhance the Range Rover Sport for 2011

  • New version of the class leading 3.0 LR‑TDV6 joins diesel line‑up

211PS@4,000rpm

520Nm@2,000rpm

243g/km CO2

  • New Limited Edition
  • Optional Luxury Pack for 3.0 TDV6 HSE
  • Gradient Acceleration Control
  • Hill Start Assist
  • DPF as standard on all diesel models
  • Range Rover Sport now EU5 compliant across the range
  • Three new paint colours offer buyers more choice

A new 211PS version of the 3.0 LR‑TDV6 diesel will join the existing 245PS engine in 2011, further enhancing the appeal of the iconic Range Rover Sport. All diesel models are equipped with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) as standard and all meet Euro 5 emissions making them among the cleanest diesel engines on the market. The powertrain line‑up is completed by the fabulous 5.0 LR‑V8 supercharged as before, offering a combination of supreme power and sublime refinement.

A new Limited Edition has also been added to the range as an alternative to the sumptuously appointed Autobiography Sport. The Limited Edition includes a set of unique interiors, finishes and detailing not available as separate options, while the main range also gains three new colours. The outstanding dynamics of the Range Rover Sport are also improved by the addition of two new Terrain Response features, Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control. "The Range Rover Sport already represents the last word in high performance SUVs and we've made sure it retains that reputation by adding a new 3.0 LR‑TDV6 diesel engine version, a stunning new Limited Edition and further Terrain Response enhancements providing even greater security for drivers,"  said Phil Popham, Managing Director.
 
New version of the 3.0 LR‑TDV6 joins Range Rover Sport range for 2011
A new entry level version of the EU5 3.0 LR‑TDV6 is being introduced for 2011, making Land Rover's latest V6 diesel engine technology available to a greater number of Range Rover Sport customers. The new 3.0 LR‑TDV6 delivers 211PS at 4,000rpm and 520Nm torque at 2,000rpm while achieving the same high levels of refinement and response as the more powerful 245PS version. The 3.6 LR‑TDV8 has been discontinued.

The engine is equipped with the same parallel sequential turbocharging system and third generation common rail fuel injection system as the existing 245PS version. Throttle response is staggering with maximum torque available from only 2,000rpm. The new 3.0‑litre diesel can significantly out perform its rivals by delivering 500Nm in only 500 milliseconds from idle. This means drivers have instantaneous access to 83 percent of maximum torque. When it was introduced last year, the parallel sequential turbocharging system was the first of its kind to be fitted to a V‑engine anywhere in the world. The twin turbochargers work sequentially to provide best in class torque at low speeds and pack a huge punch at high speeds.

Driving a turbocharger requires pressure from the exhaust, creating pumping losses in the engine and increasing fuel consumption. To minimise this effect, valves isolate the secondary turbocharger both from the exhaust stream and the engine inlet tract when it is not required. A balance pipe connecting the two manifolds allows the gas from both manifolds to feed through the primary turbocharger. A variable geometry, medium‑sized turbocharger is in use most of the time during average acceleration and up to motorway cruising speeds and performs with no discernible lag. It is a more efficient system than series turbocharging in which the smaller primary turbo increases pumping losses.

The 3.0‑litre LR‑TDV6 set new standards of refinement and fuel economy when it was announced last year, with its third generation common rail fuel injection system. Operating at 2,000bar, the piezo injectors are designed to minimise noise while optimising combustion. The system operates in 'metering mode' supplying just the right amount of fuel to the injectors rather than returning it to the tank and wasting pumping energy in the process. All diesel models are now fitted with a DPF and have an advanced EGR system to reduce NOx. "The new version of the 3.0 LR‑TDV6 will further enhance the Range Rover Sport offering greater choice within the range than ever before. Needless to say, both diesel engines deliver the kind of stunning performance Range Rover Sport customers have come to expect," said Paul Walker, Chief Programme Engineer.

5.0 LR‑V8 supercharged engine continues to lead the pack
Land Rover's remarkable 5.0 LR‑V8 supercharged petrol engine continues to head the Range Rover Sport powertrain range in 2011. Developing 510PS and 625Nm torque it set new standards in petrol engine design when it was introduced last year, packed as it is with innovation design features aimed at boosting both performance and economy. Despite its supreme levels of power and torque, the LR‑V8 supercharged meets EU5 and has impressively low CO2 emissions of 348g/km.

A centrally‑mounted, multi‑hole, spray‑guided fuel injection system delivers fuel at a pressure of up to 2175psi (150bar) directly to each cylinder. The injectors are positioned to deliver fuel precisely to the centre of the combustion chamber for maximum air‑fuel mixing and accurate combustion control. The charge cooling effects of the direct injection system allow a high compression ratio of 11.5:1 which further improves engine efficiency. During the engine warm‑up phase, the combustion system employs multiple injection mode strategies to deliver 50 percent more heat for fast catalyst warm‑up and substantially reduced emissions.

A sixth‑generation, twin‑vortex system (TVS) supercharger feeds air through twin intercoolers, water‑cooled by their own discrete cooling circuit. The high‑helix rotor design improves the supercharger's thermodynamic efficiency and does away with traditional supercharger whine, making it almost inaudible. Air is delivered through twin air boxes, which reduce flow loss and are highly efficient. Mechanically, the new supercharger and its intercoolers are neatly packaged in the V of the engine, helping reduce engine height.

A number of other design features include the industry‑first, torque‑actuated variable camshaft timing on all four cams. Unlike conventional systems which rely on oil pressure, these are actuated by the positive and negative torques generated by the opening and closing of the valves, reducing energy consumption. Torque and power is also optimised by a variable inlet manifold which changes the length of its eight inlet tracts.

The manifold switches between a 680mm inlet tract to provide high torque at low revs and a 350mm inlet path allowing maximum power at high revs. The precise position is optimised throughout the rev range at all times. The engine also features a unique reverse flow cooling system where coolant passes through the cylinder heads before the block. This allows the heads to remain cooler and the knock threshold pushed further back for greater efficiency.

An oil to water heat exchanger also transfers heat from the coolant to the engine oil. These features promote faster engine warm‑up for reduced emissions and enables the cabin to warm‑up faster too. Frictional losses have been reduced by the use of Diamond‑Like Carbon Coating (DLC) on some components, an intelligent oil pump pressure relief valve (PRV) to optimise oil pressure and the use of lower viscosity 5W‑20 oil further reduces parasitic losses without compromising durability. "The LR‑V8 supercharged engine has become a benchmark since it was introduced last year, thanks to its huge power, torque and extremely high efficiency. For an SUV where performance really matters, it is simply without peer and an ideal power unit for the Range Rover Sport," said Nick Rogers, Director of Range Rover Programmes.

6‑speed automatic transmission ‑ responsive and refined
Both the petrol and diesel engines are equipped with the ultra‑refined ZF HP28 6‑speed automatic transmission. Its characteristics have been optimised by Land Rover engineers to provide the same class‑leading response and rapid, refined shifts on all engines. Their superior power and torque characteristics make it possible to actuate the transmission's lock‑up clutches much earlier in each gear, reducing slip through the hydraulic torque converter for optimum fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.


Advanced chassis, brakes and suspension
The Range Rover Sport 5.0 LR‑V8 Supercharged petrol and 245PS 3.0 LR‑TDV6 only, are equipped with the Adaptive Dynamics system which operates in conjunction with the existing Dynamic Response system. With Adaptive Dynamics, DampTronic Valve Technology™ replaces conventional dampers and monitors damper pressure 500 times a second, continuously adapting to surface conditions and driving style thanks to an active valve technology. The chassis is complemented by high performance braking systems which include four‑piston opposed calliper front disc brakes on the diesel models and lightweight aluminium, six‑piston Brembo callipers for the supercharged models. A variable ratio steering rack improves stability in high speed cruising and increases driver involvement on twisting roads. The high performance character of the Range Rover Sport chassis is further emphasised by the Roll Stability Control system which responds to steering inputs from the driver and intervenes by braking individual wheels if the possibility of a rollover is detected.

Off‑road ability even further improved for 2011
When it comes to off‑road ability, Land Rover vehicles are acknowledged as setting the standards for others to follow. For 2011, there are two additional functions, Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.

Hill Start Assist  retains the initial driver‑generated brake pressure, long enough for the foot to move from brake pedal to throttle without the car rolling backwards. The brake is released after a sufficient time has elapsed or when the engine is supplying enough torque to move the car up the hill. Hill Start Assist is always available, not selectable and neither is its operation indicated to the driver.

Gradient Acceleration Control is designed to provide safety cover on severe gradients when the driver does not have Hill Descent Control engaged. By pressurising the brake system, Gradient Acceleration Control slows the car to a limit determined by the throttle position when the car is descending the slope in the driver's intended direction of travel. This includes descending the slope forwards in drive, or rearwards in reverse. Otherwise (such as descending while facing up the gradient with Drive selected) Gradient Acceleration Control restricts speed to 5km/h (3.1mph) for up to 20 seconds, allowing the driver to regain proper control. "These new features enhance the outstanding ability of the Range Rover Sport off‑road while continuing to deliver an intoxicating driving experience on‑road. They also deliver an added layer of safety and support to drivers who want to discover what their vehicle is really capable of," said Nick Veale, Vehicle Engineering Manager.

A new Limited Edition and three new colours
A new Limited Edition joins the Range Rover Sport line‑up for 2011 in addition to the Autobiography Sport which continues unchanged for 2011. Available on the 3.0 TDV6 HSE and 5.0 V8 HSE derivatives, the Range Rover Sport LE is sumptuously equipped with three unique interior colourways which can be matched with three exterior colours, Fuji White, Nara Bronze and Santorini Black. The LE is distinguished from other models by a distinctive grille design with an Oberon surround, gloss black mesh and noble plate frame. The design of the side vents echoes this detailing with noble plate logo, gloss black mesh and Oberon frame. LE models are also fitted with distinctive 20 inch 5‑spoke Diamond Turned alloy wheels.

Luxury Pack
An optional Luxury Pack is also available on the 3.0 TDV6 HSE bringing equipment levels close to that of Supercharged models. The pack includes contrast stitching on selected upholstery, Titan grille and vents, 20‑inch alloy wheels, Premium ICE, extended leather pack, HSE Luxury badge, heated steering wheel and adaptive cruise control.

e_TERRAIN TECHNOLOGIES boost economy and lower CO2 emissions
The new Range Rover Sport is laden with features aimed at reducing both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Both the 245PS and 211PS versions of the LR‑TDV6 3.0 Sequential Turbo Diesel engine are designed to deliver class‑leading fuel economy and improved low‑end torque.

The parallel sequential turbocharging system of the 3.0‑litre diesel makes use of its larger, primary turbo most of the time. The smaller secondary turbo remains dormant when higher power is not required, reducing pumping losses and consequently, fuel consumption. The highly efficient, third generation common rail injection system with piezo injectors and fuel metering, also makes a substantial contribution to fuel economy.

The high pressure, spray guided direct injection system of the 5.0 LR‑V8 supercharged optimises combustion while the variable camshaft timing system, camshaft profile switching and variable inlet manifold all join forces to ensure the engine is optimised for fuel efficiency throughout the range. Thanks to the advanced cooling system, faster warm‑up also improves fuel economy as do the low friction design features.

All engines have been optimised for low‑end torque as well as economy, making it possible to activate the lock‑up clutch of the ZF HP28 automatic transmission at lower speed. This reduces 'slip' in the hydraulic torque converter improving both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The higher torque at lower rpm also enables longer gearing for more economical cruising.

The Range Rover Sport incorporates several other energy saving features too. At standstill, the idle speed of the 3.0 LR‑TDV6 is a low 710rpm and the 5.0 LR‑V8 supercharged, 700rpm, using the minimum of fuel without compromising refinement. An Intelligent Power Management System includes Smart Regenerative Charging, so whenever possible the alternator charges the battery when it is most economical to do so, such as when the car is coasting rather than accelerating.

Aerodynamic features at the front end such as the lower chin spoiler and front wheel deflectors help to reduce drag by increasing underfloor airflow.  The air conditioning pump is driven through a clutch which disengages when the air conditioning is not in use reducing parasitic losses and delivering improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.


e_TERRAIN TECHNOLOGIES in summary:

  • EU5 3.0 LR‑TDV6 engine technology
  • Cutting edge LR‑V8 supercharged engine technology
  • Diesel particulate filters on all Range Rover Sport models
  • Engine calibration optimised
  • Low engine idle speeds
  • Reduced torque‑converter slip
  • Higher torque, allowing longer gearing
  • Intelligent Power Management System (IPMS) including smart regenerative charging
  • Clutched air conditioning pump to reduce parasitic losses
  • Optimised aerodynamics