The 2022 model year Range Rover is split between the previous-generation and the new fifth-generation model. This confusing setup happens because the model year designations for Land Rover differ in Europe versus the United States and what’s left of the previous-gen Rover is being sold in a pared-down trim lineup while the new-gen hits dealerships.
The all-new 2022.5 Range Rover isn’t too different from its parent in appearance, but has been completely redesigned. Key to those changes are a smoother ride quality, added interior and exterior customization options, and upgraded technology and screens. The three-row Land Rover Range Rover is the pinnacle of British luxury and off-road prowess.
The new fifth-generation 2022 Range Rover comes in three trim levels: SE, Autobiography, and First Edition. Of these, only the SE cannot be had in a five-seat configuration with the slightly shorter body style. We drove the First Edition with its three-row setup and the larger of the two powertrain options. Those include the P400 model (SE-only) with a 3.0-liter V6 that outputs 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque and the P530 (optional on SE, standard on others) with a 4.4-liter V8 that puts out 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard with either engine.
Whatever the choice of model, the Range Rover comes with a host of things as standard equipment. 21-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel steering, a Meridian audio system, wireless charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, tri-zone climate, and a full suite of advanced safety features. Plus air suspension, a panoramic roof, heated front and second-row seats, a 13.1-inch touchscreen, and a hands-free tailgate.
Moving up in the trim lineup adds bigger wheels, sound-reducing glass, a digital rearview mirror, air purification for the cabin, and a whole bunch of other serious upgrades. Including an exquisite 35-speaker Meridian audio system. Yes. 35 speakers. 35. Speakers.
Our exclusive First Edition model had 23-inch wheels, all of the above stuff, premium leather upholstery, and leather seat cushions for tailgate sitting. Seriously. How next level can you get?
With all of this, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover is still a large SUV. It’s built to have off-road capability beyond the mundane. The airbags and other comfort add-ons are meant to facilitate on-road use while retaining most of the Rover’s legendary off-road prowess. But that off-road capability comes at the cost of this large SUV being a bit wide in the turns and a little clumsy in parking lot maneuvers.
The interior of the Range Rover is still the height of British luxury. It’s beautiful on every front, with wonderful inlays, accent points, and a strong luxe theme throughout. Complaints are minimal and mostly revolve around technology. The infotainment is clunky to use and not very cooperative when doing anything more than changing stations or adjusting volume.
The third row is for kids only, though, and is quite cramped at that. But usable if needed. We really liked the driving position and visibility, which is unusually good for a vehicle of this size. Speaking of driving..
The 2022 Range Rover is a 6,000-pound behemoth, but you’d never know it with the acceleration that the purring V8 offers. On the road during normal driving, the Rover feels tight and well-balanced with its AWD system offering strong power delivery to the wheels. This is a giant SUV that can pull off 6-second 0-60 sprints and the transmission will readily downshift when you ask. It’s otherwise a smooth goer with little intrusion from the drivetrain in normal driving tasks.
Cornering is a little less dramatic, however, with a smooth roll and some slop in the steering. That’s because of the Rover’s comfort focus, though, and just ensures that nobody will mistake the big SUV for a sports car. And, at all times, the Range Rover is always comfortable.
In all, the $100,000 and up 2022 Land Rover Range Rover is a pinnacle for luxury sport utilities. While there are plenty of competitors now, including the Cadillac Escalade, in both price and luxury, the Rover brand still sets the bar.
This review originally appeared on DriveModeShow.com.
