New Range Rover Velar SVAutobiography Dynamic Review
Jaguar Land Rover’s most agile Range Rover is the only Velar model to be powered by the 5.0-litre supercharged V8. The 2019 SVAutobiography Dynamic is a vehicle that offers improved performance, power, comfort, and luxury compared to its predecessors.
However, anyone wishing to purchase it will need to act quick as production will only last for one year.
A Modern Powerhouse
The use of the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 gives the Velar SVAutobiography Dynamic a huge amount of oomph, placing it as one of the most powerful SUVs on the market. At 542 bhp and 502 lb-ft, the Velar is capable of reaching top speeds of 170 mph while it accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
Despite weighing in excess of two-tonnes, the Velar SVAutobiography Dynamic’s eight-speed auto, supercharged response, engine characteristics, and heavy use of aluminium ensure that it can power through motorway driving and off-road adventures with great ease. In that sense, it is the top Velar model to date by a considerable distance.
Adapted Performance
In addition to the extra power, Jaguar Land Rover has made a number of changes to promote responsive handling and a better overall driving experience. At 395mm, the brake discs are bigger than ever while they are gripped by four piston callipers. A more robust transfer box is used to cope with the additional torque while stiffer bushings are used in the suspension.
Air suspension comes as standard, which gives you the opportunity to alter the ride height while the choice of 21” or 22” wheels also feeds into the flexible approach without compromising the handling. In truth, the responsive handling feels closely related to that of smaller models in the JLR range. Driving remains fun around the city and further afield.
Minor Comfort Upgrades
The technology and in-cabin features of the modern generation of Velar models is already of a very high standard. As such, changes for the SVAutobiography Dynamic are minimal. A new front bumper and grille are the main upgrades to the exterior, providing improved cooling, while side skirts and the rear bumper have seen upgrades too.
A slight revamp of the steering wheel is combined with electronically adjustable massage seats. While the changes are subtle, they do create a better experience behind the wheel. The dual-screen infotainment system remains and, frankly, it doesn’t require an upgrade anyway. The driver’s seat is quite low for an SUV, but gives the vehicle a distinct feel.
Verdict
In many ways, the SVAutobiography Dynamic builds upon the success of previous Velar offerings in a very subtle way. Nevertheless, this does lead to noticeable improvements that affect the style, performance, and comfort levels in all at once. Considering the success of the Velar range in the first place, this is unquestionably one of the best SUVs on the market.
At a little over £86,000, the Velar SVAutobiography Dynamic is far from Jaguar Land Rover’s most affordable offering. However, the style, performance, and exclusivity of the model mean that it might just be their best.
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