Introduction: The Evolution of Luxury Performance
The Range Rover Sport has always occupied a unique position in the luxury SUV market – combining the opulence expected from the Range Rover name with a more dynamic driving experience. For 2025, Land Rover has refined this formula even further, delivering perhaps the most compelling Sport model to date.
As the automotive world continues its march toward electrification, the 2025 Range Rover Sport reflects this shift with expanded hybrid options while maintaining the capability and refinement that has defined the model since its inception. This latest iteration brings subtle yet meaningful updates to its design, technology, and performance capabilities.
Having spent a week with the new Sport across various driving conditions, from crowded city streets to challenging off-road trails, I can confidently say this generation continues to push boundaries. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the 2025 Range Rover Sport worthy of consideration for luxury SUV shoppers.
Table of Contents
Design and Exterior Updates
Refined Aesthetic Evolution
The 2025 Range Rover Sport maintains its distinctive silhouette but introduces several refinements that modernize its appearance. The front fascia features slimmer LED headlights flanking a revised grille that appears more integrated into the overall design. These pixel LED headlights aren’t just for show – they provide exceptional illumination and can selectively dim portions of the high beams to avoid blinding oncoming traffic.
Along the sides, the flush door handles first introduced in the previous generation remain, contributing to the vehicle’s clean lines and improved aerodynamics. The shoulder line remains strong, running from the headlights to the taillights, creating that signature Range Rover floating roof effect.
The rear end receives slightly reshaped taillights connected by a black bar bearing the Range Rover name. Dual exhaust outlets integrated into the rear bumper complete the sporting aesthetic on gasoline models, while electrified versions feature a cleaner rear treatment.
New Color and Wheel Options
For 2025, Land Rover has expanded the color palette with three new options: Lantau Bronze, Sardinia Blue, and Carpathian Grey with a contrast black roof. These join existing favorites like Firenze Red and Santorini Black.
Wheel options now include new 22-inch and 23-inch designs with various finishes. While the larger wheels certainly enhance the Sport’s visual presence, buyers should consider how they might affect ride quality, particularly on rougher roads.
Interior and Technology
Cabin Comfort and Materials
Inside, the 2025 Range Rover Sport balances modern minimalism with luxurious comfort. The dashboard architecture features clean, horizontal lines with minimal physical buttons. Premium materials abound, with standard Windsor leather seats now joined by a new sustainable textile option called “Ultrafabrics” – a response to increasing consumer demand for non-leather alternatives.
The front seats offer 20-way adjustment with heating, cooling, and massage functions on higher trims. Second-row passengers enjoy generous legroom and their own climate controls, though the sloping roofline does slightly compromise headroom for taller rear occupants.
Ambient lighting has been expanded for 2025, with 30 color options that can be synchronized with the driving mode or set independently. The overall effect is quite dramatic at night, highlighting the cabin’s architectural elements without being distracting.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The centerpiece of the dashboard remains the curved 13.1-inch Pivi Pro infotainment touchscreen. For 2025, Land Rover has updated the system’s processor, resulting in noticeably faster responses and smoother animations. The interface features a customizable home screen with widgets for commonly used functions.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a wireless charging pad. For audiophiles, the standard Meridian sound system delivers impressive performance, but the optional 29-speaker Meridian Signature 3D surround sound system transforms the cabin into a concert hall with 1,600 watts of power.
Behind the steering wheel sits a 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster that can be configured to display navigation, media information, driving data, or a combination thereof. The head-up display projects key information onto the windshield, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The 2025 Sport features Land Rover’s most comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies to date. Standard features include:
- Adaptive cruise control with steering assist
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane keeping assist with departure warning
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Traffic sign recognition
New for 2025 is an enhanced surround-view camera system that can provide a “transparent hood” view – projecting an image of the ground beneath the front of the vehicle onto the center display. This proves invaluable during technical off-road driving or navigating tight urban spaces.
Performance and Powertrains
Engine Options and Specifications
The 2025 Range Rover Sport offers four powertrain configurations in the United States market:
The base P360 features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with mild hybrid assistance, producing 355 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain delivers a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds while returning an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Moving up to the P400 brings an uprated version of the same engine with 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, shaving the 0-60 mph time down to 5.4 seconds with minimal impact on fuel economy.
The P440e plug-in hybrid combines the 3.0-liter six with a 141-horsepower electric motor and 31.8-kWh battery pack, delivering a combined 434 horsepower and 619 lb-ft of torque. This model can travel up to 51 miles on electric power alone and achieves an impressive 66 MPGe combined rating.
At the top of the range sits the P530, powered by a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 generating 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This configuration rockets to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds but comes with a significant fuel economy penalty at 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
All engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case for serious off-road capability.
Ride and Handling
The 2025 Range Rover Sport rides on Land Rover’s MLA-Flex architecture, which provides exceptional rigidity while keeping weight in check. Standard air suspension can adjust ride height by up to 5.7 inches, lowering for improved aerodynamics at highway speeds or raising for additional ground clearance off-road.
New for 2025 is an enhanced Dynamic Response Pro system that uses electronic active roll control powered by a 48-volt electrical system. This setup virtually eliminates body roll during cornering without compromising ride quality on straight roads – a significant improvement over traditional anti-roll bars.
The steering feels appropriately weighted and provides decent feedback by SUV standards. While no one would mistake the Sport for a sports car, it handles winding roads with impressive composure for a vehicle of its size and weight. According to research by Car and Driver, the Range Rover Sport achieves cornering forces comparable to some sport sedans despite its higher center of gravity.
Off-Road Capability
Despite its luxury positioning, the Range Rover Sport remains a highly capable off-road vehicle. The Terrain Response 2 system features six driving modes that optimize the powertrain, suspension, and traction control systems for different surfaces: Eco, Comfort, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl.
Water wading depth reaches an impressive 35.4 inches, while approach, breakover, and departure angles in off-road height measure 33.0, 26.9, and 30.0 degrees, respectively. These figures put the Sport near the top of its class for off-road geometry, surpassed only by purpose-built off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.
An available Wade Sensing system uses ultrasonic sensors to measure water depth and adjust vehicle systems accordingly, providing additional peace of mind when fording streams or flooded roads.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Range Rover Sport SE
The entry-level SE trim starts at $83,700 and comes well-equipped with standard features including:
- P360 powertrain (inline-six with mild hybrid)
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Windsor leather upholstery
- 14-way power-adjustable heated front seats
- Three-zone climate control
- Pivi Pro infotainment with 13.1-inch touchscreen
- Meridian sound system with 12 speakers
- LED headlights with auto high beam
- Air suspension
Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE
Starting at $90,900, the Dynamic SE adds:
- Unique exterior styling elements
- 21-inch alloy wheels
- Digital LED headlights with Signature DRL
- 20-way adjustable front seats with cooling
- Soft door close
- Configurable ambient lighting
Range Rover Sport Autobiography
Priced from $104,500, the Autobiography represents a significant step up in luxury:
- Choice of P400 or P440e powertrains
- 22-inch diamond-turned alloy wheels
- Semi-aniline leather upholstery
- 22-way adjustable heated and cooled front seats with massage
- Executive Class rear seats with power recline
- Head-up display
- Meridian Signature 3D sound system
- Four-zone climate control
Range Rover Sport First Edition
Available only for the initial model year, the First Edition starts at $121,500 and includes:
- P530 powertrain (twin-turbo V8)
- Unique exterior paint options
- 23-inch forged alloy wheels
- SV Bespoke interior options
- Carbon fiber interior trim
- Heated steering wheel with carbon fiber accents
- All available driver assistance systems
Range Rover Sport SV
The performance-focused SV model commands $140,600 and features:
- Enhanced P530 powertrain with 626 horsepower
- Carbon ceramic brakes
- Active electronic differential with torque vectoring
- Performance-tuned suspension
- Unique SV bodywork
- Carbon fiber interior and exterior elements
- Exclusive paint and upholstery options
All prices exclude destination charge of $1,275.
Practical Considerations
Cargo Space and Utility
The 2025 Range Rover Sport offers 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. These figures are competitive within the midsize luxury SUV segment but fall short of more utilitarian options like the BMW X5.
The load floor is flat and positioned at a comfortable height for loading heavy items. A hands-free power liftgate comes standard across all trims, activated by a foot motion under the rear bumper. Inside the cargo area, tie-down points and a 12-volt power outlet enhance practicality.
One particularly clever feature is the split tailgate design, with the lower portion creating a small shelf when opened – perfect for tailgating or changing out of muddy boots after a hike.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Land Rover has made significant strides in reliability in recent years, according to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, though the brand still falls behind some Japanese and Korean competitors in this regard.
Maintenance costs tend to be higher than mainstream brands, with recommended service intervals at 10,000 miles. Land Rover offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is average for the luxury segment.
Fuel economy varies significantly depending on powertrain choice, with the plug-in hybrid P440e offering potential savings for those with regular access to charging. Insurance costs typically run high due to the vehicle’s luxury status and relatively expensive repair costs.
Pros and Cons
When considering the 2025 Range Rover Sport, several strengths and weaknesses emerge. The vehicle excels in delivering a truly premium experience with exceptional materials and build quality throughout the cabin. The ride quality strikes an impressive balance between comfort and control, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining stability during dynamic driving. Its off-road capabilities remain class-leading among luxury SUVs, allowing owners to venture well beyond paved roads with confidence. The expanded electrification options, particularly the plug-in hybrid with its 51-mile electric range, provide flexibility and reduced operating costs for many driving scenarios.
However, the Range Rover Sport isn’t without drawbacks. The starting price positions it at the higher end of the segment, with fully-loaded models approaching $150,000. Fuel economy for non-hybrid models remains mediocre, particularly with the V8 engine. The infotainment system, while improved, still occasionally exhibits laggy responses and can be distracting to use while driving. Historically, Land Rover’s reliability ratings have lagged behind some competitors, though recent models show improvement. Finally, the cargo capacity, while adequate, falls short of some similarly-sized rivals.
Alternatives and Competition
The luxury midsize SUV segment is fiercely competitive. The BMW X5 offers similar performance with a more road-focused driving experience and a slightly lower starting price. The Porsche Cayenne delivers superior on-road handling dynamics but can’t match the Range Rover’s off-road prowess. For those prioritizing electrification, the Tesla Model X provides all-electric operation with impressive performance, though with a very different approach to luxury.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE presents perhaps the closest competitor in terms of luxury appointments and brand prestige, while the Genesis GV80 offers tremendous value with similar features at a significantly lower price point. For buyers seeking maximum off-road capability without sacrificing luxury, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve makes a compelling case with a lower price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV electric range compare to competitors?
The 2025 Range Rover Sport P440e plug-in hybrid offers an impressive 51 miles of electric-only range, which significantly exceeds most luxury PHEV SUV competitors. This places it ahead of options like the BMW X5 xDrive45e (about 30 miles) and the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid (approximately 27 miles). This extended electric range means many owners can handle daily commuting entirely on electric power, potentially going days or weeks without using the gasoline engine for shorter trips. The larger battery also enables more aggressive electric-only operation, allowing the Sport to reach highway speeds without engaging the combustion engine.
What makes the Range Rover Sport different from the standard Range Rover?
While sharing many components and technologies, the Range Rover Sport is positioned as a more dynamic, driver-focused alternative to the standard Range Rover. The Sport features a lower roof line, more aggressive styling, and suspension tuning oriented toward handling rather than maximum comfort. It’s slightly smaller in most dimensions, particularly length and height, making it more maneuverable in urban environments. The standard Range Rover emphasizes rear-seat luxury with executive seating options not available in the Sport. Price is another differentiator, with the Sport typically starting about $20,000 less than its larger sibling while offering similar powertrains and many of the same features.
Is the 2025 Range Rover Sport reliable?
Land Rover has made significant strides in improving reliability in recent years, though the brand still typically scores below average in major reliability surveys. The 2025 model benefits from refinements to existing powertrains rather than introducing completely new technology, which typically bodes well for reliability. The electronics architecture has been reinforced with redundant systems to reduce the likelihood of infotainment failures that plagued some earlier models. Land Rover’s rigorous testing program now includes over 1.5 million miles of real-world validation before production begins. While long-term reliability data isn’t yet available for this specific model year, the improvements made to manufacturing processes and component selection suggest better outcomes than previous generations.
How often does the Range Rover Sport need servicing?
Land Rover recommends regular maintenance intervals of 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. The vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system monitors various components and will alert drivers when specific services are required. The first major service typically occurs at 30,000 miles and includes more comprehensive inspections and fluid changes. Plug-in hybrid models require additional checks of the electric powertrain components but generally follow the same schedule. Land Rover offers prepaid maintenance plans that can provide savings over paying for individual services, and many dealers offer courtesy vehicles during scheduled maintenance appointments.
Conclusion: Is the 2025 Range Rover Sport Worth It?
After spending extensive time with the 2025 Range Rover Sport across various driving conditions, it’s clear that Land Rover has crafted a compelling luxury SUV that successfully balances seemingly contradictory priorities. It delivers genuine off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort, offers powerful performance while taking steps toward sustainability, and provides cutting-edge technology within a timeless design language.
The expanded electrification options represent a meaningful evolution for the model, particularly the P440e plug-in hybrid with its class-leading electric range. For many buyers, this variant may represent the sweet spot in the lineup, offering the best combination of performance, efficiency, and day-to-day usability.
While the premium pricing places it out of reach for many consumers, those shopping in this segment will find the Range Rover Sport delivers a distinctive experience that few competitors can match. Its breadth of capability and undeniable presence continue to make it a standard-bearer in the luxury SUV market, and the 2025 model year refines this formula in meaningful ways.
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