These are the first images of the 2011 Range Rover, which scores a subtle facelift and a raft of tech upgrades, including a new 4.4-litre turbodiesel V8, a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and an improved Terrain Response system.
The 4.4-litre oiler replaces the existing 3.6-litre V8, and it's billed as the first Range Rover to deliver better than 30 miles per gallon, or 9.4L/100km.
Unique to the Range Rover, the LR-TDV8 4.4-litre features parallel sequential turbocharging and a new cast-iron block. It pumps out 230kW at 4000rpm and 700Nm from 1500-3000rpm, and these outputs are channelled to the wheels via the new, electronically-controlled ZF 8HP70 eight-speed automatic.
The eight-speeder is allegedly tuned to take advantage of the LR-TDV8's low-end torque with torque converter lock-up being selected as early as possible to reduce slip and energy loss.
Steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifts are standard, and the CommandShift lever gets turfed in favour of a rotary knob for selecting park, reverse, neutral, drive and Sport mode. The latter sharpens gearbox response times for maximum acceleration, improved response and sharper upshifts.
The company quotes a 0-100km/h split of 7.8sec, which isn't too shabby for a luxo-laden SUV that weighs well over two-and-a-half tonnes. For what it's worth, top speed increases from 200km/h (for the outgoing 3.6-litre V8 diesel) to 209km/h.
Reflecting the performance of the new 4.4-litre LR-TDV8, it scores the same Brembo-based braking system fitted to the 5.0-litre supercharged petrol model. The stoppers comprise 380mm ventilated front discs with six-piston callipers, and 365mm ventilated discs at the rear with single piston sliding callipers.
Meanwhile, the Terrain Response system gains two new features in the form of Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.
Hill Start Assist keeps the vehicle stationary long enough for the driver's foot to move from brake pedal to throttle without the car rolling backwards, while Gradient Acceleration Control provides safety cover on severe gradients when the driver does not have Hill Descent Control engaged.
Externally, the 2011 Rangie has had the subtlest of facelifts, including new 'Jupiter' grilles and side vents for the diesel models.
A new Exterior Design Pack option brings a revised front bumper with fog lamp surrounds, front grille and side vents in Titan finish, revised side sills, rear bumper and stainless steel exhaust finishers.
Range Rover has also revealed the Autobiography Black 40th anniversary limited edition, distinguished by a unique finish in Barolo Black, 20-inch alloy wheels, mesh grilles and body-coloured door handles. Just 700 examples will be offered globally.
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