RR Sport targets super-SUVs
Fancy a Range Rover Sport with the lot?Calling all pimp daddies who think the Range Rover Sport is just a bit too ho-hum for their tastes… Land Rover has just unveiled an extreme version of its sportiest ever SUV model, known as the Supercharged ‘HST’ specification.
First things first -- there are no mechanical upgrades over the standard Supercharged model, but with 287kW and 550Nm on tap from the blown 4.2-litre V8, there wasn’t a pressing need for more oomph. Instead, the focus has been to lift its visual appeal and, in the process, introduce some of the dramatic design cues seen on the Range Stormer concept that debuted at the 2004 Detroit motor show.
In fact, the exterior design is the handiwork of the same team that created the Range Stormer.
The most obvious upgrades are the new flush-fitting, squared-off front and rear bumpers, and a larger-mouthed air intake. The front bumper/spoiler extends lower and incorporates projector-style fog lamps. Land Rover says the vehicle’s “road-hugging” qualities are further enhanced by body-coloured lower door sills to make the flanks appear deeper.
And don’t worry about off-road ability being impaired. The removable chin spoiler means that approach and departure angles are as good as the standard vehicle.
The HST also scores a new roof spoiler and a pair of rectangular tailpipes, similar to those used on the original concept vehicle. Perhaps Land Rover also drew inspiration from the rectangular pipes that adorn BMW’s X5 4.8is.
Rounding off the bling bonanza are a striking set of 20-inch Stormer alloy wheels, chromed aluminium side vents and body-coloured door mirror cappings -- all of which are unique to the HST.
Complementing the visual tweaks are an electric sunroof, electronic active locking rear differential and privacy glass. The cabin is further distinguished by hand-polished lined oak trim.
Land Rover design boss Geoff Upex is predictably effusive in his praise of the dressed-up Sport: “The HST gives the Range Rover Sport an especially impressive stance, hunkered down tight to the road,” he gushed.
“It’s the extreme version of the Range Rover Sport, the design that will be chosen by those who want to stand out from the crowd.”
The HST has just barged into UK showrooms, and we should see it here in a matter of months. No word as yet on pricing.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
