Range Rover TDV8 (2006) CAR review

Looks the same to me – what's new about this Range Rover?

Land Rover keeps tinkering with the Range Rover, in a bid to maintain its spot as the pinnacle of SUVs. It's an extensive overhaul for the 2007 model year car, with the Terrain Response off-road optimsation gadget fitted and a cabin overhaul to improve safety, ergonomics, air flow and stowage. But the most significant change is the launch of a twin-turbo 3.6-litre V8 diesel engine, which Land Rover expects to power 85 percent of the Rangies it sells in Europe.

Only 3.6 litres? But there's no replacement for displacement...

With Audi's V8 TDi displacing 4.2 litres and VW's Touareg running a 5.0-litre V10, Land Rover's diesel looks like it's turning up to the party very late and without any booze. So why is it only 3.6 litres in capacity? 'We did the performance and economy sums, and it's adequate,' says a bullish Paul Walker, chief programme engineer. Landie's first ever V8 diesel is equipped with the latest combustion technology, including a third generation common rail injection system, to boost power while reining in consumption and emissions. Twin variable geometry turbochargers respond quickly to eliminate lag, delivering hefty low-end torque (295 lb ft is on tap from just 1250rpm) and more top-end power. Peak power is 272bhp, peak torque 472lb ft. That's just 7lb ft off the Audi lump, and 61lb ft down on the VW V10. Or, put it another way, adequate. Combined fuel consumption is 25.1mpg, which Land Rover vows is easily attainable in real-world driving conditions. The TDV8 replaces the ancient, BMW-sourced TD6. To compare them, the Land Rover propaganda team dished out more percentages than a maths GCSE course. The V8 has 54 percent more power, 64 percent more torque, it's 32 percent quicker from 0 to 62mph and it's 75 percent quieter. All no doubt true, but somewhat overlooking the fact that it's an unfair comparison, like pitching Mr Muscle against Arnold Schwarzenegger.