A Look at the 2024 Range Rover SV Long Wheelbase
There’s opulence, and then there’s opulence—as in the 2024 Range Rover SV Long Wheelbase (LWB).
Based on the fifth-generation Range Rover platform that debuted a couple of years ago, SV models (short for Special Vehicle Operations, the brand’s in-house bespoke customization arm) offer an even higher level of craftsmanship than the standard portfolio of premium SUVs.
In the case of this particular LWB example, what is usually a seven-seater is turned into four-passenger lounge space with the addition of a full-length centre console highlighted by an electrically operated aluminum/veneer Club Table. Activated using the eight-inch Rear Seat Touchscreen Controller, the unit rises silently and can be extended manually via the two folding leaves featuring dampened hinges.
Occupants can use the table for work or, even better, to rest a bottle of bubbly straight from the refrigerator nestled between the seatbacks behind a powered door. Also chilling in the compartment is a pair of Dartington crystal flute glasses designed to fit in the hidden cupholders that deploy elevator-style.
When it’s time to get a little shut-eye, those in the back can recline their semi-aniline leather upholstered chairs. In the mood for a movie? Hook up an entertainment device via HDMI to the pair of 13.1-inch entertainment screens and put on the included high-fidelity headphones to enjoy a private screening.
This attention to detail carries over to the exterior as well. The metal-plated five-bar grille is Atlas Silver and is partially framed in Corinthian Bronze. The latter colour also covers multiple trim pieces found on the lower front bumper, front doors, rear spoiler, and lower tailgate. Even the Range Rover lettering along the hood and 23-inch gloss alloy wheel spokes boast the slick-looking finish. Finally, the vehicle is the first to sport a revised round ceramic SV badge next to the taillight subtly signifying its special place in the lineup.
Though Range Rovers are sold in dizzying array of configurations, the SV is now exclusively packaged with the new P615 powertrain: a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, sending 606 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels in silky-smooth fashion.
All-wheel steering gives the 5,970-pound SUV, measuring 207 inches long and 80.6 inches wide, surprisingly nimble manoeuvrability around the city, and thanks to the plethora of cameras and sensors, squeezing into parking spots isn’t too much of a pain either. And forget about feeling any major bumps or bends in the road, as the dynamic air suspension system takes into account the terrain conditions, GPS data, and vehicle speed to adjust dampening and height settings to mitigate jarring motions and body roll.
With the 2024 Range Rover SV Long Wheelbase, the British manufacturer once again sets the bar high for the four-by-four luxury segment.
