It was just two weeks ago that I had to make do with a Range Rover Sport. Now, it’s time to up the luxury a few degrees with the Range Rover LWB — long wheel base — the head of the Land Rover line.
The Range Rover was redone two years ago now and still is one of the most stylish luxury SUVs on the road today. I drove the SWB version last year and thought it had tremendous styling. But the LWB version is even better looking.
I enjoy the side profile of the Range Rover LWB. Its large rear doors and extended space behind the doors with an extra rear glass area gives it a more modern look than before. The optional 23-inch wheels fill out the flared fenders perfectly. The front-end style is modern without being too much or shouty.
Where it excels though is the rear styling. It’s so simple and clean but very expressive with tall and slender LED lighting clusters. As with past Range Rovers, the rear tail gate is a two-piece unit where the bottom tail folds down while the top opens up.
I drove the Range Rover SE, the so-called entry level of the luxury SUV, but it seems a bit strange calling this entry level. With high-quality leather and rich wood trim, this is a comfortable and tranquil place to spend time. However, you can upgrade the interior or choose a higher trim level for even more luxurious trimmings.
With the addition of the LWB version, you can now have a seven seat Range Rover and all seats are well padded. Third row seats have a little less space than other luxury rides, however. The big Range Rover feels very bright and airy inside when compared to many of the other luxury SUVs, thanks to the ample glass and panoramic roof. An improved infotainment system debuts for 2024 and it seems to work better than in previous Range Rovers I’ve driven.
The Range Rover SE LWB offers a very good ride that does a good job of dealing with bumps, even with the optional big wheels. The air ride suspension smooths out most roads and the Range Rover is famous for being a serious off-roader. However, with a six-figure price tag, I didn’t dare try it out this time with some less than favorable rainy conditions.
This Range Rover comes with a six-cylinder engine with nearly 400hp. It was a smooth operator with plenty of power. The big Range Rover isn’t happy being pushed on back roads. You’ll experience some body lean when you hurry the LWB version. Drive calmly and this Range Rover will impress with its smoothness and a hushed ride. The four-wheel steering will make the very big SUV easier to drive in smaller spaces.
Cost: $114,900 base version to 125,190
Options: $1,950 Charente Grey; $3,800 23″ style 1075 diamonds turned wheels; $3,065 cold climate pack; $895 Convenience pack; $1,820 upgrade interior pack.
MPG: 18 MPG combined; I managed 18.2 mpg in 246 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: In-Control Protect; emergency braking with assist; traffic sign recognition & adaptive speed limiter; lane-keep assist; driver condition monitor; Park Pack; head-up display; Drive Pack
Things to know: The Range Rover SE is the suave luxury SUV and with long wheelbase versions seven people can now go for a drive.
Pros:
- Comfortable ride and the ability to tackle off-road adventures
- LWB versions have third row of seats to allow more passengers
- Packed with technology and safety equipment
Cons:
- Starts at six figures and climbs quickly with options
- Doesn’t like to be pushed in corners
- Some other luxury SUVs have more room in the third-row seats
