The latest derivative of the Range Rover Velar is intended to personify modern luxury while featuring the latest technology. There are very few technological enhancements that the Velar does not feature. Despite having so many technological advancements everything is simple and easy to use – something that other as advanced vehicles are not quite as successful at.
The seats alone are a perfect illustration of this. They are completely electronically controlled and showcase some of the best (and newest) features that the Range Rover Velar has to offer, including its completely synthetic leather seats that would give leather itself a run for its money.
The drive
The tested vehicle was the 3.0-litre straight-six D300 diesel engine. Drivers can expect 221 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque from this derivative of the Velar. This is paired with an 8-speed 7F automatic transmission.
The 700 Nm of torque is very clearly felt in the Velar. It responds robustly but does take those few extra moments to gain momentum. Once it does drivers enjoy a powerful and more than capable drive.
The average fuel consumption that we achieved was 8.2L/100km. This is really not bad at all considering that it’s not a small vehicle with a kerb weight of approximately 2 tonnes. Additionally, I had a long highway drive with very little traffic which contributed to this fuel consumption figure. There was also a fair amount to stop/start driving so achieved consumption was not bad at all. The claimed fuel consumption is 7.5L/100km.
Your driving is also scored by the vehicle. My score is 94%. Along with the score, it gives you other scores for your consumption in different driving scenarios, for example on inclines, and shows you where you can improve your fuel consumption. The SUV goes the extra lengths to help you improve or obtain the best fuel consumption.
The design
A new grille joins the characteristic floating roof, unbroken waistline and flush deployable door handles that have come to define the Velar. Another new addition is the super-slim Pixel LED headlights which create a jewel-like appearance as well as optimise visibility. A new lower rear bumper and dark accents are added.
While the door handles that lie flush against the vehicle are a characteristic part of the SUV, it is still something that I can’t quite get accustomed to. When the doors are unlocked, it is very obvious with this contraption awkwardly sticking out from the car. It may teach drivers to lock their doors as soon they enter the car but still has inherent safety concerns. On a humorous note is the expressions on people’s faces when encountering this door handle for the first time.
The interior of the vehicle continues the minimalistic design philosophy of the SUV while still personifying quality and comfort. Quality materials adorn the interior making for a beautiful tactile feel of both the seats and the dash. While not present in the test vehicle, there is also the option to select the leather-free option.
Smooth lines are seen throughout the interior of the vehicle. All drink holders and cubbies can be closed by hiding valuables from view and creating a smooth sleek interior. This contributes to the minimalistic look as well. Adding to the aesthetic is the new floating 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen of the infotainment screen.
The middle console between the driver and passenger is quite large and at times seems overly large. It does, however, add to the spacious and luxurious aesthetic of the interior.
The Range Rover Velar is definitely sizable. There is plenty of space for both the front and the rear passengers. In particular, the boot is decently sized that would likely seldom need the back seats to be lowered for extra room.
It is not just an SUV that takes you from A to B but does it in comfort and space. It is the vehicle equivalent of a business class cabin (not quite first class as other vehicles go a step even further).
The Range Rover Velar’s puddle lights shine in the shape of a miniature Velar. Most often these lights reflect like the name of the vehicle or the sport logos which adds a bit of flair to the SUV’s design.
Stepping inside
The Velar is very successful at making you feel like you are in a technological hub. You can put the interior light on just by running your finger across it. You can also open the sunroof in a similar manner.
Oddly enough, one of the most noteworthy parts of the Velar is its seats. Every part of the seat is electronically adjustable. There are 18 different adjustments including the option to adjust how the seat fits your body or the lumbar support. The height of the headrest can also be controlled with a button on the side.
Additionally, the seats have a massage function that can be controlled from the infotainment screen. There are four different massage functions as well as five intensity levels to choose from. A game changer in traffic.
The seats have both heaters and coolers. Both the passenger and the driver can control the heating and cooling of their own seats. This includes selecting which parts of the seats to adjust the temperature of.
Quality of the seats is also outstanding. I might even be tempted to say it’s one of the best that I’ve seen so far – supple, good quality and luxurious.
There is a full panoramic sunroof which extends all the way to the rear. The nets over the sunroof, which are found in most vehicles today, appear more effective at blocking the sun. Often, I find these nets inadequate at effectively blocking the sun from rear passengers. Granted, it may have been the winter weather that made it seem this way.
Another noteworthy feature is the volume control on the steering wheel. You can quickly roll your finger over the rotating dial reducing distraction from the road..
The rear has its own temperature control and settings. It is not just vents but controls to select your own temperature, airflow and direction. Essentially it is climate control functionality in the rear of the Velar.
One of my favourite features about the Range Rover Velar is that built into the armrest between the two rear passengers are charging ports. There are two C ports which allow passengers to plug in their phones and make for a much more comfortable experience when charging your phone in the SUV.
When I say there’s a button for everything, it is not an understatement. When hitching a trailer, or when loading or unloading from the boot, controls inside the luggage compartment raise or lower the suspension by 50mm. The Electronic Air Suspension system is also self-levelling, maintaining the optimum ride height when towing or carrying heavy loads for improved comfort and composure.
This towing functionality positions the SUV as the ultimate in a luxury lifestyle vehicle. It is not just about making a vehicle with a powerful drive and superb comfort but one that caters to an adventurous lifestyle as well as the day-to-day trips.
The best part about the tech is it is very easy to use with no fuss or hassle trying to figure out how to get the most from the tech offered. This is a huge plus as my experience is few of the other vehicles at this tech level are as easy to use or even as effective.
Good to know
The specs
Engine: 3.0-litre straight-six D300 diesel
Transmission: 8-speed 7F automatic
Fuel consumption: 7.5L/100km
Power: 221 kW
Torque: 700 Nm
Price: starting from R1 984 100
Warranty and service plan: 5-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan.
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