Articles
Originally published on Tuesday, 12th March 2013
Range Rover Launch
4th Generation of the Range Rover
Cotswolds
So, after nearly scaring myself to death on the Audi Monaco mountain drive pre-Christmas, I decided I hadn’t yet learnt my lesson and said yes to another test drive, this time in the Cotswolds. Here’s how it panned out.
What: New Range Rover launch, Cotswolds.
What they say: The all-new Range Rover is the most capable Land Rover yet. Lighter, stronger, the newly refined Range Rover reinforces its position as the world’s finest SUV.
What we say: Truth be told, we like Defenders, but never really thought we were the Range Rover type. We were wrong. This is like driving an elevated limo. Smooth, luxurious and fast in the way that you’re actually speeding when you think you’re cruising. In our model there was a (pimptastic) small refrigerator in the armrest, and the gears shifted (automatically) with a dial or (manually) with paddles. The sound system is big and clear, signature veneer panelling elegant; and the leather, butter soft.
Tech Highlights: A lightweight, all-aluminium body and Terrain Response® system analyses driving conditions and selects the best setting. The light and spacious interior ‘provides occupants with a sensation of serene isloation’ – we agree.
What we wore: We tried to dress for the county (fur, tweed, wellies), but after ditching the wellies for loafers pre-drive we looked more Ivy League. Other media testees ranged from a woman who drove tractors to Range Rover ambassadors (George Lamb), to glossy and automotive titles. My driving partner knew his stuff – he works at Auto Trader – and was instrumental in what came next…
The drive in the Cotswolds: Driving a tank through country roads was scarier than anticipated (this was a very expensive ride!), but smooth nonetheless. It was actually fun. We had an emergency number too, so I at least felt safe if we went completely off piste.
The drive at Eastnor Castle: After the taster drive to Daylesford, we went to the home of Land Rover – where they test drive all the cars. Exciting, although it was snowing (hard), it was dark, and all participants were doing the test drive in a row so if you messed up, you did it in front of others
The test drive: If you’re looking for a team day out, this is about as good as they come. The driving is steep and rugged. It was like being on a rollercoaster, but being in control of the ride. After my partner Dan talked me through how to descend muddy steeps – by using the Terrain Response® (basically cruise control mode) - and concentrating on keeping the wheel straight with help from a dashboard computer, things were much better.
The Verdict: If we had 100K and lived in the country, or at least spent the weekends there, this would be our ride. We will definitely be back to the Eastnor test track for another joy ride.
