Range Rover has confirmed reports that it will build a limited-edition, ultra-luxury two-door version of its Range Rover SUV, following repeated sightings of such a car being cold-weather tested in disguise.
Called the Range Rover SV Coupé, the new car will be manufactured by Land Rover's SVO – Special Vehicle Operations – department in Warwickshire. Just 999 units are expected to be sold, and while there's no official word on price, we anticipate an RRP of at least $300,000 for the limited run that make it to New Zealand.
So far, the only image of the vehicle released by JLR is of the interior [pictured below]. It shows an attractive cabin with a distinctive full-length centre console, decorated with a banded wood inlay and aluminium fittings. The four seats appear to be upholstered in quilted leather, and we note that the front is finished in a different colour to the rear; such emphasis on the front seats is likely to give the impression of a 2+2 when the rear two are vacant.
The infotainment system appears similar to those found in the Range Rover Velar. Visible on the centre console near the gear selector is a dial that ordinarily controls off-road settings in a normal Range Rover, which suggests that the road-orientated two-door coupé version of JLR's legendary 4x4 will still have some ability away from the tarmac.
“The Range Rover SV Coupé is a highly compelling design with peerless refinement and uncompromised sophistication from its breathtaking exterior proportions to its sumptuous, beautifully appointed, interior,” gushed chief design officer Gerry McGovern.
“This is a vehicle that will resonate on an emotional level.”
Land Rover is keen to point out similarities between this model and the original Range Rover, which started out as a two-door when it was launched in 1970. The model has changed significantly over the past 48 years, and in doing so has become one of the most recognisable cars on the road, but many people still have affection for the classics.
“Land Rover created the luxury SUV sector with Range Rover almost 50 years ago,” said SVO boss John Edwards.
“In launching the new Range Rover SV Coupé, we will offer clients an alluring combination of peerless luxury and rarity. Unveiling this special vehicle at Geneva International Motor Show in March, during Land Rover’s 70th Anniversary year, will be a defining moment for Land Rover, the Range Rover portfolio and Special Vehicle Operations.”
The car will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. We expect an SVR version of the Range Rover Velar to be present on the stand too, ahead of its release later in the year.
- Telegraph UK