One Week Drive: Range Rover Autobiography LWB

"Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom" (will-alib)
06/05/2016 at 15:48 • Filed to: Range Rover, reviews, WillAlibrandi

All photos: Will Alibrandi

While high-end SUVs are nothing new, debut models from luxury marques such as Maserati, Bentley and Rolls-Royce are bringing more attention to the segment. Along with Mercedes’ GLS and G-wagen, Range Rover has been a staple of the lux SUV segment for many moons. The 2016 model is the fourth year since the last major redesign in which the former model’s steel body was replaced by an aluminum unibody structure contributing to a total weight reduction of 700 pounds. That big drop in weight to a relatively svelte 5,313lb paid off in terms of driving dynamics, acceleration and fuel economy, now rated at 14 city 19 highway with an average of 16mpg. Rather impressive for a vehicle with the surface area of a small house.

The Autobiography is the Range Rover’s second highest trim level starting at $144,995 (the long wheelbase version adds $5000 to its $139,995 base) and comes with a lengthy list of standard equipment as you’d expect from a luxury icon. Electrochromic virtual gauges, shared with its corporate cousins at Jaguar add to the wow factor, as does the powered gearshift selector which rises up after engine start. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters seem a bit superfluous here.

Range Rover’s adaptive Terrain Response System has multiple assists for offroad conditions: Hill Descent Control, Gradient Release Control, Hill Start Assist, Roll Stability Control and stability and traction control for on-road use. TRS automatically adjusts engine, transmission, differential and chassis settings for varying surfaces, but includes a manual mode for sand, mud, snow and rock-crawling. The Rover has a two-speed transfer case with a locking center differential which can split torque via a multi-plate clutch based on conditions and traction demand. An active locking rear differential is standard on the Autobiography models.

The test vehicle had the executive class rear seating option, replacing the center seat with a console containing rear-passenger HVAC controls as well as entertainment system and sunroof controls. It is the back seat passengers that benefit from the stretched wheelbase with an additional 7" of legroom over the standard wheelbase Range Rover. Combined with the extra seatback recline, the LWB can seat your typical NBA center comfortably. The reclining heated/cooled massaging seats are a destination in themselves.

Powered sunshades for the rear windows cut down on glare, and combined with the powered shade on the panoramic sunroof do an admirable job of keeping the backseat passengers comfortable. They also enhance privacy - essential for hiding from unwelcome paparazzi.

The top engine option on the Autobiography is the supercharged 5.0 liter V8, rated at 510hp and 461lb-ft torque. This power is routed through an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission to the AWD system, and motivates the Autobiography from 0-60 in 5.5 seconds. 5,300lb is a lot of mass to move but the Rover gains speed at a surprising pace accompanied by the muted growl of the blown V8 underhood. The biggest criticism of this powertrain is its smoothness; initial throttle application often results in an abrupt start with the vehicle lurching ahead. Smooth starts happen after spending enough time in the vehicle to get used to the touchy throttle. Another issue to get used to is the LWB’s 44ft diameter turning circle, which could be an issue when maneuvering in tight quarters.

While high-end SUVs often get knocked for never leaving pavement, the Range Rover’s offroad capability outshines every other SUV on the market with the possible exception of the Mercedes G-wagen. But its combination of luxurious appointments, horsepower and a sophisticated AWD system sets it apart from the Benz and puts the driver in control of virtually any situation. One curious departure however is the lack of a 3rd row seating option, more so considering this is the extended wheelbase model.

If you think of this truck as a $148k high-tech limousine with off-road capability, you’re not far off the mark. The Range Rover has earned its reputation as being among the best, and the Autobiography doesn’t disappoint.

DISCUSSION (13)

djmt1 > Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom
06/05/2016 at 15:51

Did that car have the updated infotainment system?

Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom > djmt1
06/05/2016 at 15:53

Not sure. Updated how?

djmt1 > Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom
06/05/2016 at 15:54

JLR have been slammed for the last few years for having the worse touchscreen, software, etc but this year they’ve brought in a new system which is apparently much better.

Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap > Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom
06/05/2016 at 15:55

Never have I wanted such a ridiculous car.

Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom > djmt1
06/05/2016 at 15:56

I’m not familiar with the old system, but the system in this truck seemed easy to understand and use. I didn’t play around with the rear seat system though.

Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom > Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap
06/05/2016 at 15:57

It is a bit over the top, but some folks dig that.

Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap > Turbineguy: Nom de Zoom
06/05/2016 at 16:02

That was poorly phrased. I meant that this was awesome.