By Amanda Mfuphi

Land Rover South Africa has introduced a new in-line six-cylinder 3.0-litre petrol engine in a choice of two outputs for the Range Rover Sport in Mzansi. The mild hybrid engines are said to enhance performance, refinement, and responses along with improved fuel economy.

New Engines

The new six-cylinder unit has an innovative combination of advanced technology, including the introduction of an electric supercharger to deliver immediate power response and virtually remove turbo lag. The new engine does this by being able to spool fully in 0.5 seconds at up to 6,500rpm to maximum boost pressure.

Supported by a twin-scroll turbocharger and Continuous Variable Valve Lift, which boost power and help the engine breathe with maximum efficiency, the design of the all-new six-cylinder engine improves performance and fuel economy as well as reduce emissions – all with customary Range Rover poise and refinement.

The new engine 3.0-litre has an all-new Start-Stop technology that switches off when the vehicle is stationary, and it is paired with an electric motor. This allows the system to harvest energy whilst the vehicle is decelerating and store it in a 48V battery.  This energy can then be re-deployed through torque-assist, reducing C02 emissions by reducing the workload on the engine.

The performance-boosting technologies work alongside a new Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) powertrain that is underpinned by the new engine, bringing enhanced efficiency to the range. The Range Rover Sport P360 (this model is sold in S, SE and HSE specification levels) pushes out 265kW of power at a claimed fuel economy of 9.2L/100km. the Range Rover Sport P360 does a 0-100km/h sprint in 6.6 seconds. Available exclusively on the new HST model, a more powerful 294kW version of the MHEV Ingenium engine powers the Range Rover Sport from 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds.

Exterior

The new HST model features a unique combination of interior and exterior updates including bespoke badging and carbon fibre trim on the bonnet, front grille, side vents and tailgate. There is also a choice of two alloy wheel designs and five exterior colours on offer, Santorini Black, Fuji White, Hakuba Silver, Firenze Red and Carpathian Grey. The HST model will be identifiable through red brake calipers, with a grey anodised option also available.

Interior

Inside, the front seats get a makeover through an updated colour pattern with suedecloth detailing on the steering wheel and gear lever, Satin Chrome gear shift paddles and an HST badged facia. In addition, the suite of safety enhancements includes Advanced Cruise Control – featuring Stop and Go and Steer Assist – alongside High-Speed Emergency Braking.

The Range Rover Sport P360 and HST are available in South Africa now, and are priced from R1,369,000 and R1,874,600 respectively.