In addition to striking new exterior details: front grille and bumper, power vents, lamps and wheels -- the 2006 Range Rover gains two new powerful engine options, including a supercharged version.
Two new engines add to Range Rover's performance upgrade. A normally aspirated 4.4-liter V8 engine produces 305bhp, while a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 produces 400 bhp.
Both engines are lightweight and use advanced torque-based engine management systems that, together with drive-by-wire throttle control and variable camshaft phasing (on the normally aspirated), continually adjust the engine to deliver optimal performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
While the result is increased performance, the upgraded engines are expected to have better fuel economy than the last V8.
The Range Rover retains its iconic shape, but there are subtle yet distinct changes. All Range Rovers for 2006 get a new front bumper design, new headlamps and tail lights, a new front grille and revised power vents. New 19-inch alloy wheels are also offered. The supercharged derivatives are distinguished by additional styling modifications including mesh-design front grille and power vents, unique 20-inch alloy wheels, and special black-on-silver badges.
"We've only changed the design where we can provide subtle enhancements," said Geoff Upex of Land Rover.
"The Range Rover is about grace and class, not extravagance."
Additional enhancements include sharper steering, crisper braking performance, and improved air suspension; a quieter interior and additional color combinations; adaptive headlights, tire-pressure monitoring, touch-screen control for audio, phone and off-road driving information; a rear-view camera that projects directly to the front-fascia screen; and rear seat entertainment package featuring a six-disc DVD changer, twin screens, and headphone pods, all fully integrated with the vehicle's sound system.
The Range Rover for 2006 will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January and will be available in North America in summer of 2005.
It will be joined by Range Rover Sport, providing Land Rover with two premium vehicles at the top of its range.