The answer is extremely simple: this car, unlike sky-high supercars, is of real practical interest to the wealthy public. Land Rover gracefully and decisively plugged their own created, but hitherto empty marketing niche of the “urban Range Rover”.
Many times in interviews and presentations, I asked Land Rover bosses: do all your clients really need all these opportunities to storm almost meter fords, climb rocks at an angle of 45 degrees and do other hardcore? They answered me: yes, we understand that few people use the capabilities of our machines even by half, but it is important for people to have potential.
Velar- for those for whom this potential is much less important than the monumentality of the appearance and the luxury of the interior. This is a crossover Range Rover. Also with a good discount compared to the flagship!
Technically, it's not even really a Land Rover - it's Jaguar F-Pace in a new guise. Based on the same platform iQ, the same wheelbase of 2,874 mm, the same suspension designs (two-link front, multi-link rear) and ... yes, a simplified all-wheel drive transmission without a reduction gear.
Visually Velar it seems very large, and it is really longer than the Jaguar (due to overhangs) by 7 centimeters, but shorter Range Rover Sport by 4.7 centimeters. Logically, the “cubic” Velar should be inferior in terms of aerodynamic properties f-pace, but in fact its Cx is 0.32 versus 0.34 for the co-platformer.
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In favor of Cx, the door handles, made in a compartment-style “flush”, are played, which are put forward, apparently, when the car is unlocked with a key. And also, do not believe it, British engineers adopted the know-how, which was very popular in the 90s among the owners of the "chisel". Velar does not have a rear wiper - the air flow passing through the spoiler should blow off water and dirt at speed. That does not detract from the merits of this amazing car.
What's in the photos, what's live Velar is damn similar to the concept-car: with bold chopped lines, giant wheels... But in the cabin it’s already really comfortable, this doesn’t happen in concepts. And this, forgive me flagship range, the most luxurious Land Rover I've ever sat in.
Let's say that now you won't surprise anyone with expensive leather - at least completely tighten everything in skins and paint it in the most bizarre colors. The British went further in experiments with texture. Denim, corrugated polymer upholstery, rough wood ... The steering wheel can even be suede!
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Men, beware! If your woman inadvertently sits here in the showroom and feels all these delights, she may have an acute kinesthetic orgasm, and all other cars, even if they are just as new and premium, will seem insipid and boring to her.
And you will have to unplanned to spend money on a new Velar for her, otherwise her life would lose all meaning. Yes, what is there to be hypocritical - you, too, will surely like the interior, especially since it is good not only with rags.
In the enthusiastic crowd of jackets Armani and D&G dresses it was not possible to properly test the head unit on Velar, but what he saw is impressive. Three screens - digital tidy and two central, with excellent graphics and performance.
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When they debuted in Paris a couple of years ago Volvo XC90 and Land Rover Discovery Sport, the Briton with his wretched display looked like an alien from a bygone era. Now, no inferiority is felt, on the contrary. At first glance, the division of functionality into two screens at different angles to the driver (the lower one is “littered” forward more) is more ergonomic than one vertical screen on Volvo or, say, Tesla.
Unlike the line discovery, It's definitely not a family car. In the back row Velar is a bit crowded, even if you sit “by yourself” with a modest 175 cm height. Flaw? Not for the intended audience. As well as stripped-down off-road capabilities.
But by the way, do not rush to write down Velar as the heroes of asphalt and nothing more. Yes, the transmission is simplified, and the overhangs are obviously too big for a real SUV. And in general, who will trample on a swamp if it has a suede steering wheel and the ceiling is upholstered in snow-white Alcantara? But if you really want to, then you can. After all, there is Terrain Response 2 with a variety of transmission algorithms for driving on different surfaces, and the ground clearance can be increased to 251 mm using pneumatics.
Motors? Motors are different. There are very boring 2-liter turbodiesels with 180 hp. Inexpensive, but from the outside it will still look pretentious, besides, the expense is excellent. Petrol "two-liter" a little more fun: 250 forces, within the framework of tax prudence. The next 240-horsepower turbodiesel in the hierarchy will probably go a little more fun, also without forcing you to go broke on maintenance. Well, for uncompromising buyers there will be V6- 300 hp diesel and 380 hp petrol with compressor.
Prices? Already known. It all starts with 3,880,000 rubles, and ends with 7,178,000. You can read more, but for now you can just keep in mind that the “fork” of prices for a regular Range Rover- from 6,304,000 to 11,649,000 rubles.
Land Rover has launched a new SUV called the Range Rover Velar in its lineup. In the lineup, he took a place between the Evoque and Discovery Sport cars. The official display of the novelty took place in the spring of this year at a special event in the capital of Great Britain. The start of crossover sales in Russia was organized in October 2017. The price of the Range Rover Vilar in the basic version starts at 3,880,000 rubles.
The new Range Rover Velar 2017-2018 model year is built on the PLA D7 platform, made of aluminum. A similar “trolley” underlies the Jaguar F-Pace and Range Rover Sport. Normally, the car is equipped with a drive on both axles; a special system is also used that uses the wheels of the front axle through a multi-plate clutch. Ground clearance Range Rover Vilar reaches 213 mm (with conventional spring suspension). Thanks to this, the crossover can overcome a 60-centimeter ford. The list of options includes air suspension, which allows you to adjust the ground clearance from 205 to 251 mm. It also increases off-road capabilities - you can cross a ford already 65 cm deep.
Stunning looks and dimensions
The magnificent exterior design is one of the “chips” of the British novelty. Although the exterior is designed in a minimalist style, it deserves your attention. The exterior features are the original false radiator grille, front lighting with exclusive daytime running lights, fog optics with LED filling, slots on the hood, as well as rims with a diameter of 18 to 21 inches (you can also place a special order for “rollers” with a dimension of 22”).
External door handles are made retractable, there is a special LED backlight. The rear of the body also looks very stylish: 3D LED optics, stylish foglights, a massive bumper and trapezoidal exhaust pipes.
Dimensions Range Rover Velar (Range Rover Vilar) 2017-2018:
- length - 4 803 mm;
- width - 1,930 mm;
- height - 1 665 mm;
- the distance between the axles is 2,874 mm.
The body of the new SUV with British roots can be painted in 13 different shades, so buyers will have plenty to choose from.
The front drag of the crossover body is 0.32 Cx, and this is the best coefficient among all representatives of the Range Rover line. The developers were able to achieve this indicator thanks to the almost perfectly flat bottom, the design of the door handles (they hide when the car speed exceeds 8 km / h), as well as the smooth outlines of the body elements. According to the developers, the thoughtful design of the spoiler ensures the cleanliness of the glass of the fifth door, as water and dirt are simply blown away by a powerful air stream.
Interior design and its technical stuffing
At first glance, the interior of the Range Rover Vilar may seem a little rustic. But a detailed examination helps to understand how erroneous the first opinion can be. In the interior you can see a huge number of the latest developments. In fact, there are practically no analog controls inside the British SUV. All kinds of electronic systems are controlled using touch displays and panels.
A multifunctional steering wheel is installed in front of the driver, on which touch panels are also used. The instrument panel is virtual, it has a 12.3-inch color display. But the base version uses the more familiar analog instrument cluster with a 5.0-inch trip computer screen. There is also a projection screen in the car, which displays data on the windshield.
The center console consists of a pair of touch screen displays with a diagonal of 10 inches, and the angle of the top can change. It is designed to control the infotainment system. And the one that is installed below is responsible for the operation of climate control (four zones). It is also designed to control various off-road modes of the Range Rover Velar. The crossover is equipped with a premium sound system with 17 or 23 speakers. There is also a multi-colored LED backlight.
The front seats received high-quality lateral support, a thoughtful profile, as well as electrical adjustments, heating, massage and ventilation systems (the latter are offered as an option). The rear row is also not deprived of attention - ventilation deflectors, heating and ports for connecting mobile devices are available.
The trim of the Range Rover Velar 2017-2018 is made of expensive leather and high-quality fabric. Note the use of metal decorative elements. Trunk volume Range Rover Velar reaches 558 liters, the cargo compartment door is equipped with an electric drive. If you fold the rear row (ratio - 40/20/40), the volume of the cargo compartment will already be 1731 liters. A set of tools and a spare wheel are hidden under the raised boot floor.
The SUV is equipped with a large number of the latest security systems:
- automatic emergency braking system;
- lane departure warning system;
- rear parking sensors;
- cruise control with speed limit;
- assistance system when reversing with a trailer;
- system of adaptation to conditions on the road;
- slope control system;
- function of easy start on slippery surfaces, etc.
Engines (gasoline and diesel), specifications, dynamics and fuel consumption
Specifications Range Rover Velar (Range Rover Velar) 2017-2018 model year involves the use of five power units. Note that the car can tow trailers weighing up to 2.5 tons. The SUV feels great outside the asphalt, which is facilitated by high ground clearance, four-wheel drive, as well as various electronic assistants. All four wheels are equipped with disc brakes, the suspension is independent, the steering has an electric booster.
Range Rover Velar petrol modifications:
- In the engine compartment of this version, a 2.0-liter “four” with a capacity of 250 “horses” (365 Nm) is installed, accelerating the SUV from standstill to 100 km / h in 6.7 seconds. "Maximum speed" is equal to 217 km / h, fuel consumption in the combined cycle - 7.6 liters per 100 km.
- The power of this 2.0-liter engine reaches 300 hp. (400 Nm), acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h - 6.0 seconds, top speed - 234 km / h, and fuel consumption - 7.8 liters per hundred.
- This modification of the car is equipped with a 380-horsepower 3.0-liter engine with a peak torque of 450 Nm. Acceleration from standstill to 100 km / h lasts 5.7 seconds, the “maximum speed” reaches 250 km / h, and the average fuel consumption is 9.4 liters.
Range Rover Velar diesel options:
- Under the hood of this SUV, a two-liter turbocharged diesel “four” with a capacity of 180 forces (430 nm) is installed. It accelerates the car to the first hundred in 8.9 seconds, and the maximum speed with this engine is 209 km / h. "Appetite" - 5.4 liters per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle.
- The 2.0-liter engine already develops 240 “horses” (500 Nm), while accelerating the SUV from 0 to 100 km / h in 7.3 seconds. The maximum speed of this modification is 217 km / h, and the average fuel consumption of the Range Rover Vilar in this version is 5.8 liters per 100 km.
- This version of the model received a 300-horsepower “six” with a volume of three liters with a peak torque of 700 Nm, a maximum speed of 241 km / h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.5 seconds. At the same time, the declared average fuel consumption is 6.4 liters.
All Range Rover Vilar engines are paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Options and prices
- Base - from 3,880,000 rubles. This 2017-2018 Range Rover Velar package includes: 18-inch rims, LED headlights, power tailgate, combined seat trim, mechanical front seat adjustment, 8-speaker audio system, keyless entry system , rear parking sensors, voice control and retractable door handles.
- S - from 4,400,000 rubles. In this version, 19-inch wheels, front optics with DRL, touch-sensitive tailgate opening, electric and heated exterior mirrors, leather-trimmed seats, an 11-speaker sound system, a rear-view camera, branded navigation, and more adjustments are already available in this version. seats and driver's seat memory function.
- SE - from 4,700,000 rubles. This modification of the SUV received 20-inch wheels, matrix LED optics, an 825-watt audio system and 17 speakers, a virtual instrument panel with a 12.3-inch screen, Park and Drive option sets.
- R-Dynamic - from 4,093,000 rubles. This version of the crossover has 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, branded door sills, mechanically adjustable front seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with chrome inserts, an 8-speaker sound system, a keyless entry system, rear parking sensors, original bumper design with finishing of integrated pipes of the exhaust system, aluminum decorative inserts, gearshift paddles, as well as metal pedal covers.
- R-Dynamic S - from 4,613,000 rubles. This Range Rover Vilar package includes 19-inch wheels, LED headlights with daytime running lights, touch-sensitive tailgate opening, heated and electrically adjustable mirrors, 10-way seat adjustment, a set of options for a smartphone, an audio system with 11 speakers, a camera rear view and regular navigation system.
- R-Dynamic SE - from 4,913,000 rubles. This price includes 20-inch rollers, LED matrix headlights, leather-trimmed seats, smartphone options, a 17-speaker 825-watt sound system, navigation, a 12.3-inch display, a rear-view camera, and Park option packages. and drive.
- R-Dynamic HSE - from 5,739,000 rubles. There are already 21-inch wheels, 20-way adjustable seats, heated and massage front seats, an electric steering wheel adjustment, as well as Park Pro and Drive Pro options.
- First Edition - from 7,178,000 rubles. The special version of the Range Rover Vilar is equipped with 21-inch wheels, matrix-laser front optics, a unique nameplate on the rack, decorative carbon inserts with the name of the version, suede headlining, 20-way adjustable seats, a heated steering wheel, an audio system with 23 speakers, a projection screen on the windshield, an extended set of options, adjustable interior lighting, tinted rear windows and door sills with original lighting.
| Equipment | Version (engine) | price, rub. |
|---|---|---|
| Base | 3 880 000 | |
| 3 880 000 | ||
| S | D180 (2.0l, 180 hp, diesel) | 4 400 000 |
| 4 640 000 | ||
| P250 (2.0l, 250 hp, petrol) | 4 400 000 | |
| 4 600 000 | ||
| SE | D180 (2.0l, 180 hp, diesel) | 4 700 000 |
| D240 (2.0l, 240 hp, diesel) | 4 940 000 | |
| 5 300 000 | ||
| P250 (2.0l, 250 hp, petrol) | 4 700 000 | |
| P300 (2.0l, 300 hp, petrol) | 4 900 000 | |
| 5 340 000 | ||
| R-Dynamic | D180 (2.0l, 180 hp, diesel) | 4 093 000 |
| P250 (2.0l, 250 hp, petrol) | 4 093 000 | |
| R-Dynamic S | D180 (2.0l, 180 hp, diesel) | 4 613 000 |
| D240 (2.0l, 240 hp, diesel) | 4 853 000 | |
| D300 (3.0l, 300 hp, diesel) | 5 213 000 | |
| P250 (2.0l, 250 hp, petrol) | 4 613 000 | |
| P300 (2.0l, 300 hp, petrol) | 4 813 000 | |
| P380 (3.0l, 380 hp, petrol) | 5 253 000 | |
| R-Dynamic SE | D180 (2.0l, 180 hp, diesel) | 4 913 000 |
| D240 (2.0l, 240 hp, diesel) | 5 153 000 | |
| D300 (3.0l, 300 hp, diesel) | 5 513 000 | |
| P250 (2.0l, 250 hp, petrol) | 4 913 000 | |
| P300 (2.0l, 300 hp, petrol) | 5 113 000 | |
| P380 (3.0l, 380 hp, petrol) | 5 553 000 | |
| R-Dynamic HSE | D240 (2.0l, 240 hp, diesel) | 5 739 000 |
| D300 (3.0l, 300 hp, diesel) | 6 099 000 | |
| P300 (2.0l, 300 hp, petrol) | 5 699 000 | |
| P380 (3.0l, 380 hp, petrol) | 6 139 000 | |
| first edition | D300 (3.0l, 300 hp, diesel) | 7 178 000 |
| P380 (3.0l, 380 hp, petrol) | 7 218 000 |
No veil
Velar in translation means "veiled", "covered with a veil". How does this relate to Jaguar Land Rover's newest creation, the Range Rover Velar? This name was given in 1969 to the pre-production sample of the first Range Rover. Since then, a lot of water has flowed under the bridge, but conservative British people honor traditions. At the same time, it is worth noting that the newborn Velar organically fit into the family, without losing the peculiar charm inherent in Range Rover cars, but introducing a lot of both design and technological innovations.
text: Stanislav Shustitsky
/ photo: Jaguar Land Rover / 04.09.2017Range Rover Velar. No veilRange Rover Velar. Price: from 3,880,000 rubles. On sale: since autumn 2017
All solutions in the interior emphasize the status of the model. Including materials used
The place that Jaguar Land Rover marketers have allocated to Velar in the range of Range Rover models, of which there are now four, is quite logical: between the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque versions. If the wheelbase of the Sport version is 2923 mm, and the Evoque is 2660 mm, then the Velar has this figure of 2874 mm. Velar is built on the Jaguar F-Pace platform, and aluminum is also actively used in its modular design (more than 80% of the body structure). But a common platform is, perhaps, all that these cars have in common. They are completely different both in terms of design and driving performance. Not in the sense that one is better and the other is worse, but simply different. If we talk about the exterior of the Velar, then once again we cannot do without compliments to the designers of Jaguar Land Rover, who managed to combine the brutality of an SUV with the elegance of a premium class car. Ask any of the company's designers what is the secret to the success of their models. I bet that in response you will hear: “In proportions!” And then they will begin to dissect the image they created. Matt Walkins, the man who was responsible for the first sketches of the concept of this car, did not fail to do this: “Having determined the Velar’s place in the Range Rover model line, we were not going to design a “matryoshka”, that is, stretch the Sport model or shrink the Evoque.” Then Matt delivered the traditional speech about proportions and moved on to the details: “Once the proportions were resolved, the image of the new car formed itself: a short front overhang, a slightly longer rear overhang, a clear profile line, a long wheelbase, large diameter wheels ( depending on the version, Velar is equipped with wheels with a diameter of 18 to 22 inches - approx. Auth.) ... The design is based on smoothly flowing surfaces, and the whole image creates a feeling of glamor and elegance. To create this impression, we spent several months in the laboratory, achieving the desired play of light on the surfaces of the Velar body. The work was carried out with an accuracy of up to a millimeter, and it began at the level of preparing a clay model.”
Speaking about the design features of the Range Rover Velar, Matt Walkins often used the term "reductionism", saying that the path to excellence does not always have to be difficult. At least externally. And I got the impression that the word "reductionism" has become a kind of epigraph to the terms of reference for the creation of the Range Rover Velar. “There are also a number of details that we are proud of,” Matt continued. For example, doorknobs. This is the ugliest part of the car, and it was important for me to hide them as much as possible. On the Velar, the handles extend when the vehicle is opened and retract flush with the surfaces when the doors are locked or when the vehicle speeds above 8 km/h.” By the way, accuracy in creating ideal body lines and accuracy in fitting panels and decor details is not just a tribute to “beauty”. Jaguar Land Rover engineers also worked hard on aerodynamics. In particular, Velar's drag coefficient is 0.32, which is a very good indicator for an SUV. If we continue the topic of new technologies used in creating the appearance of Velar, then it is worth mentioning the LED headlights that are included in the basic package of all versions. And optionally available four lighting options, including matrix-laser LED headlights. In this variant, the power of the high-beam beam of the headlights illuminates 550 meters of the road, and the matrix technology prevents dazzling of oncoming drivers.
Speaking about Velar design, Matt Walkins often drew analogies with the ship. Agree, there is something in common. And there is "reductionism"...
No less than the exterior, interior solutions are also saturated with the spirit of reductionism. Despite the fact that Matt Walkins's diocese was still exterior design, he also said a few words about the interior, repeating the definitions of "glamourous" and "elegant", but adding that the interior of the Velar is "an island of calm." And you can’t argue with the first one - even Luxtec artificial leather and suede of the basic configuration look respectable, and genuine perforated leather is used in the S and SX versions. As for the HSE version, luxurious perforated Windsor leather is used in both the dashboard and door trim. But the list of finishing materials does not end there either: as an alternative to traditional leather, a textile fabric is offered, developed in conjunction with the Danish design company Kvadrat.
And again, reductionism in action: the interior has clear dominants, there is no style-destroying abundance of keys, switches, buttons...
Plunging into the “glamorous” and “elegant” salon of Velar, you again remember the favorite word of English designers - “reductionism”. There are no keys, no levers, no buttons that activate the functions of the car. The interior is dominated by a long front panel and a center console with two black screens of the latest Touch Pro Duo multimedia system. In the basic version, analog instruments and a 5-inch TFT display are in front of the driver's eyes, and starting with the SE package, a 12.3-inch interactive display, which the driver can configure depending on his preferences. Speed, navigation prompts and information about the operation of a number of systems can be displayed using the head-up display on the windshield. The engine starts and the screens on the center console come to life: in the menu of the upper display there are three sectors responsible for navigation, multimedia and telephone, in the area of responsibility of the lower display - climate control, heated and ventilated seats (as well as a massage function) and control of the Terrain Response system , which allows the driver, based on road conditions, to select the desired mode of adaptation of the engine, transmission, all-wheel drive system, suspension, etc.
LED taillights are designed in the same style as the headlights
There are six engines in the Range Rover Velar powertrain lineup. These are diesel 2-liter 4-cylinder engines Ingenium D180 and D240: the first, equipped with a variable geometry turbine, has a capacity of 180 hp. With. and a maximum torque of 430 Nm at 1500 rpm, the second, in the design of which two turbochargers are used, produces 240 hp. With. and maximum torque of 500 Nm at 1500 rpm. The newest, 3-litre V6 diesel engine has 300 horsepower. With. and a torque of 700 Nm. This motor provides acceleration of a car weighing almost two tons to 100 km / h in 6.5 seconds. The most economical gasoline engine is the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder Ingenium with 250 hp. With. and a maximum torque of 365 Nm. At the same time, the P300 version is the most powerful in the line of 4-cylinder Land Rover engines: 300 hp. With. and 400 Nm of torque. And the flagship of the Velar powertrain line is an aluminum 3.0-liter V6 engine equipped with a Twin-Vortex supercharger. Its power is 380 hp. with., and the maximum torque is 450 Nm at 6500 rpm. All versions of Velar are equipped with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, but cars with 4-cylinder engines are aggregated with the 8HP 45 model, which has a damper that reduces loads, and for 6-cylinder engines, the 8HP 70 model is designed, optimized for higher torque. On the test, which took place on the roads of Norway, it was possible to compare cars with the most powerful units, and I liked the diesel "six" more. Perhaps the very feeling of “glamour” and “elegance” that fills the interior of the Velar played a role here - a successful alliance of a diesel (very quiet) engine and automatic transmission provided smooth (not sluggish, namely smooth) acceleration without jerks when shifting gears, and here the gasoline unit seemed a little more "nervous". Say, diesel loses in acceleration dynamics? Yes, but this loss during acceleration to 100 km / h is less than a second. Notice this difference when basking in the atmosphere of "glamour" and "elegance"?
As mentioned above, the Range Rover Velar was tested in Norway, which has a road network of 82,000 km of asphalt roads and 72,000 km of gravel roads, which means that it was possible to test the Velar's qualities on poor roads. As for the design, there is a double wishbone suspension in front, most of the parts of which are made of aluminum. But, for example, the lower arms are made of steel - a solution focused on the possibility of going out and off-road. Out back is Integral Link Suspension, a design that contributes to both ride and handling. In the "standard" versions with 4-cylinder engines are equipped with a spring suspension, but optionally on versions with a 240-horsepower diesel and 300-horsepower gasoline engine, air suspension can be installed. In the “base”, all versions with 6-cylinder engines are equipped with air suspension. It is worth talking about this function in more detail. Once the vehicle's speed exceeds 105 km/h, the air suspension lowers the ride height by 10 mm, and when the engine is turned off, the automatic suspension control mode lowers the vehicle by another 40 mm, allowing for comfortable entry and exit. When off-road mode is enabled, the vehicle is raised by 46 mm at speeds below 50 km/h, providing a ground clearance of 251 mm. The air suspension also helps a lot when fording: Velar can overcome water obstacles up to 650 mm deep (versions with spring suspension - up to 600 mm deep).
Door handles have passed a series of tests for functionality. And passed all tests
All specifications of the Range Rover Velar are equipped with an intelligent plug-in four-wheel drive system, which uses a transfer case with a multi-plate hydraulic clutch and chain drive to the front axle. The speed of "decision making" is high: for example, 100% of the torque to the front axle can be transferred in just 100 milliseconds. Torque distribution is controlled by the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics system, which receives information from sensors on the angle of rotation of the wheels, throttle position, yaw rate, lateral acceleration and analyzes the level of wheel grip. In combination with IDD, dynamic stabilization and thrust vector control systems also work. For versions with 6-cylinder engines, an active rear differential lock is available, which controls the distribution of torque between the rear wheels. The Terrain Response system allows the driver to select one of six modes that characterize his preferences for driving or road conditions, thus providing settings for the engine, transmission, suspension, stability systems and all-wheel drive functionality. Terrain Response or the more advanced Terrain Response 2 features are accessed either via the multimedia system selector or via the touch screen. There, in Norway, it was also possible to test the All-Terrain Progress Control system, a kind of off-road cruise control operating at speeds up to 30 km / h, and the Hill Descent Control system, which controls the speed of a car on a slope with a large gradient. Thanks to the above systems, the assault on the rocky ski slope was uneventful.
The automatic transmission selector moves out of the panel when the engine is started. "Chip" from Jaguar Land Rover
And now, having descended from heaven to earth, a few more pluses in the Range Rover Velar asset. Do you know what was the first question of one of my friends who found out about my acquaintance with Velar? Thinking about design? About the engine line? Again, they didn't guess. He asked about the volume of the trunk. I do not think that he seriously thought about buying this car, but the practical vein made itself felt. So, Velar's trunk volume is 673 liters. Yes, my friend also clicked his tongue respectfully. And you can add here a wide range of driver assistance systems, an extensive range of colors, with exclusive colors for the top version of the First Edition ... You can continue further. It was interesting to talk with the developers of the Range Rover Velar, but there were practically no questions regarding marketing. Agree, it's silly to ask about the target audience of Velar. This car is not to be missed. Yes, it is not as sporty as the Jaguar F-Pace, but there is a different twist here. And I liked the Velar. True, in this case, too, there is a conflict of desires and opportunities - the “basic” version of the Range Rover Velar will cost 3,880,000 rubles, and the version in the R-Dynamic HSE configuration will cost 6,139,000 rubles. And if you are a true connoisseur of beauty, and you liked the First Edition version, then be prepared to spend 7,218,000 rubles. Well, there are things that are unattainable, but the pursuit of a dream is always welcome ...
At quite a decent level and off-road potential Range Rover Velar
There were also no complaints about handling on serpentines of mountain roads.
Price
"Initial" versions are comparable to competitors' prices. Here are some serious numbers...
Average score
- Without a doubt, this is a high premium car. But his premium is not a veil covering other advantages.
- There are no cons that could significantly affect the refusal to buy the Range Rover Velar “on the surface”. Is it the price...
Range Rover Velar specifications
Dimensions 4083x1665x2032 mm Base 2874 mm Curb weight 1959 kg Full mass n. d. Clearance 213 mm (std.), 251 mm (air suspension) Trunk volume 673/1731 l Fuel tank volume 66 l Engine diesel, 6-cyl., 2993 cm3, 300/4000 hp/min -1, 700/1500 Nm/min -1 Transmission automatic, 8-speed, all-wheel drive Tire size 18 to 22 inches Dynamics 241 km/h; 6.5 s to 100 km/h Fuel consumption (city/highway/mixed) 7.4/5.8/6.4 l per 100 km Verdict
If you like the Range Rover brand, you are not a retrograde and are ready for new architectural solutions - the Velar model is definitely for you. Love off-road adventures that don't turn into trophy raids? Fits perfectly - you're sure to find what you need. And the price difference is more than two million.
GET A NEW LOOK
The Range Rover Velar features Jaguar Land Rover's new Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with integrated multi-function controllers that include Terrain Response and Terrain Response 2, among other features.
TO CHOICE
13 color options, matte paintwork specially developed for the First Edition, copper-look details, 8 types of rims from 18 to 22 inches, unique textile upholstery developed in collaboration with the design studio Kvadrat... All this and more about the Range Rover Velar.
Partner offers
Icebreaker. Test drive Range Rover Velar
Range Rover Velar looks more like a bold concept than a production car: low body without traditional door handles, touch screens instead of push buttons and giant wheels
Velar is derived from the Latin "to hide". This name should confuse journalists and all those who could see the prototype of the very first Range Rover during the tests: they tried to classify the innovative car. Half a century later, Velar is again confusing. The crossover bearing this name is more like a bold concept that just left the catwalk of one of the major motor shows: a low body without traditional door handles, touch displays instead of push buttons and giant wheels. Nevertheless, it is serial and will soon reach Russia.
The new Velar is like all Range Rovers at once. The massive grille and upturned rear bumper are reminiscent of the flagship SUV, the “birdie” on the sidewall and quadrangular exhaust pipes are reminiscent of the small Evoque. The lights are connected by a jumper, as on the Range Rover Sport.
In terms of length, the Velar got close to the “Sport”: it is only 47 mm shorter, but at the same time it is slightly taller than the Evoque (1665 millimeters). The wheelbase of 2874 mm is a hint, because exactly the same distance between the axles of the Jaguar F-Pace. Velar is built on the same aluminum platform and is equipped with the same all-wheel drive transmission with a connected front axle. Velar is larger than the F-Pace, primarily due to the rear overhang and due to it it is also more spacious. Trunk volume is one of the largest in the class - 637 liters against 508 liters for Jaguar. There is not enough space in the back row so as not to threaten the existence of the Range Rover Sport.
With the advent of the Jaguar F-Pace, the hands of the second brand of the combined company were untied. If you can make the most off-road and practical Jaguar possible, then why not give the Range some sporty genes? Range Rover already has a Sport model, and in the extreme SVR version, it easily leaves in five seconds. However, the aluminum giant weighs more than two tons and needs voracious compressor "eights" to move quickly.
If the older brother is completely aluminum, then the share of light alloys in the Velar body is 81%, in particular, its doors are steel. At the same time, the difference in weight between cars with the same V6 gasoline engines reaches 260 kilograms. The six-cylinder Velar is even more powerful - 380 hp, and all together this gives a one and a half second advantage in acceleration to 100 km per hour. In order for the Range Rover Sport to go faster, it needs a five-liter supercharged V8, which significantly increases both weight and consumption.
For the first time, when creating a Range Rover car, so much attention was paid to aerodynamics. The characteristic body with a long rear overhang and a descending roofline was rounded as much as possible and made more squat. For the sake of streamlining, even the door handles were abandoned - they are made retractable. The result was a drag coefficient of 0.32-0.36 - for comparison, in RR Sport, depending on the model, it is 0.34-0.37. In theory, a better result could have been achieved without sacrificing pens, but stylists opposed them.
Velar design specialist James Watkins believes that the smooth sides gave the crossover a resemblance to an expensive yacht. In addition, retractable handles are reminiscent of supercars and high-tech Tesla. And what's funny, they do not contradict the DNA of the brand: the very first Land Rover, which looked more like a tractor than a car, was also deprived of external door handles.
Flip-out "blades", as in the Jaguar F-Type, the engineers preferred a more complex U-shaped design. According to Watkins, the passenger should feel the impressiveness of the handle - it's still a crossover. The handles extend when the doors are unlocked with a key or a button on the door, and hide automatically when the car picks up speed. They are not afraid of sand and mud, and with the ease of Russian nuclear submarines break through a thick layer of ice.
At least that's how it was on the official video. The declared ice thickness is 4 mm, but the electric motors are quite powerful, and no matter how you push the handle from the outside, it will still be extended. When closing the car, the handle will not bite your fingers. I was convinced of this from my own experience: having met an obstacle, she simply will not hide inside the door.
Retractable door handles are tram safe. They are not afraid of dirt, sand and are able to break through the formed ice.
The interior is devoid of detail and therefore reinforces the impression of the concept: the front panel with the characteristic architecture of the Range Rover models shines with the black gloss of the switched-off displays. The physical buttons and knobs on it are the bare minimum - the control is mostly touch. It is worth finding an inconspicuous engine start button - it is real - and the panel comes to life with a multi-colored riot of symbols. She has a strong slope, which is why you need to reach for the air ducts, and the multimedia display moves forward.
The owner of a Range Rover is not surprised by the digital tidy - painted dials have appeared on the cars of the British brand for a long time. Over the years, we have managed to bring the multimedia system up to the modern level. A giant touchscreen display in the entire center console is a gift from the future.
Moreover, the future is humane: one of the surviving physical knobs controls the sound volume of the audio system. Maybe not as high-tech, but eminently convenient compared to the touch key on the steering wheel, which you constantly touch. The purpose of two more twists depends on one of the selected screens. They regulate the temperature, intensity of seat heating. In the off-road menu, the left one switches driving modes, and the right one is again responsible for the climate and heating.
For a car of this level, there is a lot of hard plastic in the cabin, but in general the interior looks expensive, high-tech and also well insulated from noise. And upholstered in fabric from the Danish company Kvadrat, it becomes very cozy.
The front panel has a strong slope, so the air ducts are located far away and you need to reach for them.
The touch-sensitive, laser-firing Velar should, if not fly, then at least move on silent electric power. But under the hood, a three-liter gasoline engine with a drive supercharger sings. And it evokes nostalgia, like Frank Sinatra on the Golden Hits of the 60s radio. Compressor motors should be included in the Red Book like Amur tigers, and it would be just as pity if they die out.
Three-liter V6 with 380 hp gradually increases traction and reaches a peak of 450 Nm after the tachometer needle is exactly in the middle between the numbers 3 and 4. Velar crouches on the rear axle, like a motorboat or large Range Rover SUVs, and presses to the ground with increasing speed. From a place he exchanges "hundred" in 5.7 seconds. This is still the maximum possible, but JLR is unlikely to stop there: there are even more nimble competitors on the market. In any case, this is a very fast crossover, especially on Norwegian roads, where the maximum allowed is 80 km / h, and the signs "50" and "60" are more common. As soon as you let go of the tight gas pedal, Velar rushes headlong into breaking.
In the next turn of the Troll Stairs serpentine, I dodge a motorcyclist sliding on wet asphalt, then go around an old Volvo station wagon - it boiled, overcoming the middle of the rise. After I stumble into a tourist minibus. Not exactly what I dreamed about before. At the same time, in Norway, with its rare traffic, there are places to test handling.
The sporty character of the new crossover is immediately felt: when landing, there is not enough cushion adjustment and you want to sit even lower. The steering wheel of the Velar is a little artificial, but at the same time accurate. It is a pleasure to drive a large car along winding paths, where two cars can hardly pass in places. It is a pity that the tires begin to slide early and are generally noisy - a more road option would have come up here.
With the most powerful compressor gasoline engine at the moment (380 hp), Velar accelerates to 100 km / h in 5.7 seconds.
Auto mode successfully fights roll and vibration from huge 22-inch wheels. It is enough to switch to sport mode, as the Velar immediately becomes noticeably stiffer and begins to notice imperceptible defects. And in a comfortable suspension, it dissolves and pesters the unsprung masses with a tremor. A diesel car with wheels an inch smaller should be more comfortable, but in reality it is not set up as unambiguously as a gasoline one: the steering wheel lacks information content, and the suspension exasperates with buildup. Such a Velar takes powerful traction - diesel 700 Nm are already available at 1500 rpm. With this argument, you don’t notice slow responses to the “gas” and some lack of synergy between the engine and the 8-speed transmission. Diesel three-liter Velar teleports passengers to a speed of 100 km / h in just 6.5 seconds.
Even the most road and sporty Range Rover must be able to climb - this skill is still the pride of the British company. It would seem that pressed to the ground and deprived of a downshift Velar is not an off-road fighter. Air struts allow you to increase the ground clearance from 205 to 251 mm, and tricky off-road programs allow you to confidently drive through sand, mud, stones and not be afraid of diagonal hanging.
All-round cameras and large mirrors help out a lot when maneuvering. But not everything is perfect for Velar in difficult areas. In the off-road position, the suspension practically chooses moves and becomes quite stiff - here would be smaller diameter wheels and tires with a higher profile. “Automatic” is a fan of shifting gears on a tense gravel lift, which is why you have to transfer it to sport mode.
In recent years, British car design has been incredibly exciting. Jaguar F-Pace, Aston Martin DB11, Range Rover Velar and McLaren 720S are examples of stunning beauties that have hit the market either relatively recently or literally just now. Each of these cars is interesting in its own way, however, the most balanced and perfect, in my opinion, is the Velar.
Range Rover Velar is a mid-size premium crossover, which in the line of brand models is located between Evoque and Sport, which is confirmed by the overall dimensions of the novelty. So the length of the Velar is 4.803 mm, the width is 2.032 mm, and the height is 1.665 mm. The size of the wheelbase of this SUV is 2.874 mm and with an accuracy of 1 mm coincides with the wheelbase of another representative of Jaguar Land Rover, the F-Pace. This coincidence is not accidental - Range Rover Velar and Jaguar F-Pace are built on a common platform. Therefore, the two cars have the same suspension schemes: front - on two wishbones and rear - multi-link, Integral Link, as well as steering with an electromechanical amplifier. In addition, they have many common body parts, and the proportion of aluminum in its design is the same - 81 percent.
Matches Velar with F-Pace and range of engines. It opens with a four-cylinder diesel D180 of the Ingenium family with a volume of 1.999 cubic meters. see. Equipped with a turbocharger, this engine develops a maximum power of 180 hp. at 4,000 rpm and a torque of 430 Nm at 1,500 rpm. Velar with such an engine speeds up to 209 km / h, and accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 8.9 seconds. Combined fuel consumption of the D180 modification is 5.4 l/100 km, while CO2 emissions are 142 g/km.
The next in the line of engines is the D240 diesel. By and large, this is still the same engine, but equipped with two turbochargers. Its power reaches 240 hp and the torque is 500 Nm. As a result, Velar D240 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 217 km/h. Average fuel consumption (compared to the predecessor engine) has increased to 5.8 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 154 g/km.
The largest (from diesels) power and torque (300 hp, 700 Nm) are produced by the V-shaped "six" D300 with a volume of 2.933 cubic meters. cm, which allows you to develop a “hundred” in 6.5 seconds and a “maximum speed” of 241 km / h. The average fuel consumption of the Velar D300 is 6.4 l/100 km and the emission level is 167 g/km. True, British colleagues write that the V-shaped "six" does not have long to live - it will be replaced by the latest in-line engine with the same number of cylinders.
The same fate awaits a V-shaped gasoline engine with a volume of 2.995 cubic meters. see However, today the P380 modification is positioned as the fastest - its maximum speed is 250 km / h (electronically limited), and the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km / h is 5.7 seconds. Average fuel consumption is 9.4 l/100 km.
The second gasoline unit is an in-line engine from the Ingenium family with a working volume of 1.997 cubic meters. see This turbo four, designated P250, develops 250 hp. at 5,500 rpm and a torque of 365 Nm between 1,200 and 4,500 rpm. Velar P250 speed can reach up to 217 km / h, and the dynamics - 6.7 seconds to "hundreds". Combined fuel consumption is 7.6 l/100 km and CO2 emissions are 173 g/km.
At the same time, by the end of this year, the British manufacturer promises to release a forced version of the P250 version - the P300 engine, which, as can be seen from the designation, will develop 300 hp.
If the engine lines of the Range Rover Velar and Jaguar F-Pace are completely the same, then there are significant differences in the transmissions of these machines. Unlike the F-Pace, the Velar does not have rear-wheel drive versions with a manual transmission - only all-wheel drive with a front axle connected by a clutch and an 8-speed automatic from ZF. In addition, Velar has a locking rear differential - in the base for modifications with V6, optionally - for other versions.
A similar situation is observed with the suspension. The fact is that in addition to the option with steel springs, which provides a ground clearance of 213 mm, pneumatics are offered for the Range Rover Velar - again, for cars with V6 already in the basic version. A car with such a suspension has a standard ground clearance of 205 mm. At a speed of 105 km / h, it is reduced by 10 mm (to 195 mm), in order to improve aerodynamics. The maximum possible ground clearance for a crossover with air suspension is 251 mm (+46 mm to the standard position). It is possible only at speeds up to 50 km / h, and at 50-80 km / h the clearance will automatically decrease by 18 mm (up to 233 mm). And finally, when the ignition is turned off, the car lowers 40 mm from the standard position (up to 165 mm) to make it easier to load things. By the way, Velar is the first case of combining air suspension and iQ aluminum platform. Yes, one more thing: the shock absorbers on this car are electronically controlled, and already in the basic configuration.
And, of course, the Range Rover uses Terrain Response (in the "base") or even Terrain Response 2 (as an option or in the base version on the First Edition special version). Let me remind you that the Terrain Response system has the following operation algorithms: Eco, Comfort, Grass / Gravel / Snow, Mud and Ruts, Sand, as well as Dynamic (the latter is only for R-Dynamic versions ). Well, in Terrain Response 2, an automatic adaptation mode has also been added. In addition, the Range Rover's arsenal includes off-road cruise control operating in the speed range from 3.6 to 30 km / h, a special start function for poor traction, as well as an assistant for descent from slopes. And finally, Velar can safely tow a trailer weighing up to 2.5 tons - in this case, the Advanced Tow Assist technology helps the driver.
Thus, it can be noted that the Velar remains a Range Rover. And, on the one hand, in comparison with the same Jaguar F-Pace, Velar has increased off-road capabilities (for example, overcomes a ford with a depth of 650 mm), and on the other hand, it provides an improved level of comfort. By the way, thanks to the longer body length, the Velar trunk volume reaches 632 liters - under the shelf or 1731 liters - with the rear seats folded down.
But still, the most amazing thing about this car is its design! The history of the Velar began with the desire to build a car with its own unique character (not just a new version of the Range Rover) and timeless beauty. As you know, the key to the "eternal" design lies in its simplicity and purity of lines. However, this is much easier said than done, as simplicity is the hardest part of design. This art can be learned throughout life. By the way, if you are careful, you can see that the design of Range Rover models has gradually evolved in this direction.
And, as the designers themselves say, they worked on Velar "with an unshakable belief in reductionism." As far as I understood this idea, the guys sought to achieve the perfection of literally every detail, in order to then combine them all into a single equally perfect whole. The converse statement is also true - a correctly comprehended and conscious common goal served as a guarantor of the appearance of beautiful concrete solutions.
Fortunately, the work went from the first sketches. And when Ratan Tata looked at them, then, according to Jerry McGovern, chief designer of the Range Rover brand, “he became a passionate advocate for this car,” which, of course, contributed to the success of the project.
As a result, in my opinion, the British have created a simply amazing crossover. Its design is distinguished by unique proportions, an interesting silhouette, very smooth body surfaces and an almost complete absence of decor (with the exception of “copper-like” inserts). As for the individual details, they are not only skillfully crafted on their own, but also elegantly visually connected to the overall image of the car. Technique on Velar and that is put at the service of design. So retractable handles of the body, of course, improve aerodynamics, but, first of all, ensure the cleanliness of the surface. The compact and thin Velar LED headlights look great, which are offered in four versions - up to the matrix laser, in which the range of the light beam reaches 550 m.
The interior of the Range Rover Velar crossover is a mirror image of its exterior - there is nothing superfluous here either. As in the exterior, one of the main design elements in the Velara salon is technology. We are talking about the Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, which the car is already equipped with in the basic version. This system uses a pair of 10-inch high-definition touchscreen displays that are installed one below the other in the center console area.
It should be noted that the design of these displays is worked out so carefully that they look great even when turned off. And when turned on, the Touch Pro Duo system provides not only beauty, but also an intuitive interface. A pair of screens is clearly divided functionally: on the upper one, “pictures” are displayed, while the crossover systems are controlled through the lower display. In fairness, it must be added that the three physical knobs on the console still remain, but they are also context-sensitive: if the climate control menu is currently displayed on the display, then turning the knob adjusts the temperature, and if the Terrain Response menu - then the control of the operating modes of the electronics is narrower than this system. I will add that there are even touch keys on the steering wheel, and their purpose can also change. And one more thing: the top screen can tilt within 30 degrees, which makes it possible to adjust it to people of different heights. The position is remembered and the monitor returns to it every time it is restarted.
Of course, Velar's driver's instrument panel is also electronic, with a diagonal of 12.3 inches. The image on the screen may change depending on the selected driving mode and the individual preferences of the driver. However, the manufacturer retained the choice of analog devices. And Velar also has a new generation projection display - with beautiful graphics and excellent resolution.
Interestingly, the monitors of the Touch Pro Duo system are harmoniously combined with the second design feature of the Velar interior - seats, as well as other interior details, upholstered in fabric from the Danish company Kvadrat, one of the leaders in the global textile industry. Kvadrat fabric is 30% wool and 70% polyester, which is obtained by recycling plastic bottles. It is not only pleasant to the touch, but also very strong, durable in operation. Range Rover designers liked the Danish design so much that they eventually want to make it their signature and try to shift the focus of consumers to textiles. It seems that the British are introducing a sort of newfangled eco-friendly tablet-glamor chic. However, if you are so out of date, then when buying a Velar, you can order leather upholstery.
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| Interior upholstery with fabric from the Danish company Kvadrat | |
Of course, in the premium Velara you can also find something that rather refers to traditional luxury: four-zone climate control, front seats with 20-way adjustment, heating, ventilation and massage, rear seats with servo-back tilt, Meridian audio system - with 17 or 23 speakers, up to 1.600 W, panoramic (fixed or sliding) roof and air ionizer. Useful containers are also available, such as a cooled 7.5-litre glove box, a 4-litre compartment under the center armrest, and cup holders.
Driving comfort, and not just increasing the level of safety, is also facilitated by modern digital assistants: all-round cameras, adaptive cruise control, parking assistance system (parallel and perpendicular), traffic sign reading technology, driver monitoring system and a number of other assistants. And yet the main thing about the Range Rover Velar is its design - elegant, charming and emotional - turning this car into an object of desire.
Photo by Land Rover
