2023 MODEL RANGE ROVER VELAR R-DYNAMIC

D200 2.0L DIESEL AWD AUTOMATIC

ENGINE TYPE: 2.0L AJ21D4 DIESEL

The Range Rover Velar gains a sporty-looking HST model for 2023, complete with an exclusive Arroios Grey paint color option and unique 21-inch black wheels. The HST will sit atop the Velar's trim ladder and will be offered only with the 395-hp version of the turbocharged-and-supercharged inline-six engine. An adjustable air suspension and adaptive damper system are both standard, too.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The base engine is a 247-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that is well behaved enough but struggles to move the Velar's substantial heft. We sampled a four-cylinder Velar for a 40,000-mile long-term test, and that model required 7.4 seconds to hit 60 mph. The turbocharged-and-supercharged 3.0-liter inline-six will undoubtedly provide better acceleration performance, but we haven't yet tested this new powertrain, which is offered in both 335- or 395-hp flavors. Much like the Velar's acceleration, its handling is by no means sporty. The suspension competently controls the SUV's body motions and keeps body roll in check while returning a firm, well-managed ride. Models equipped with the available air suspension can raise and lower their ride height for either more dynamic moves on-road or greater dexterity off it.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA has rated the Velar's inline-six engine as high as 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, but the turbocharged four-cylinder is slightly more efficient, with ratings of 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. In our 75-mph highway fuel economy test, the four-cylinder Velar delivered just 26 mpg. For more information about the Velar's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.