NEW RANGE ROVER VELAR REVIEW: BETTER THAN THE GERMANS?

EV Channels Review

The Range Rover Velar receives a mid-cycle refresh, aiming to enhance its appeal against German rivals. While the exterior boasts updated styling with new headlights, grille, and taillights, the interior sees a significant shift towards a touchscreen-dominated interface, removing physical climate controls and adding a minimalist, albeit somewhat stark, center console. Reviewer Mat Watson finds the new infotainment system unintuitive and the removal of physical buttons a step back in usability, particularly for climate and driving mode adjustments. Interior material quality is deemed good but not quite on par with a BMW X3. Practicality in the rear seats is adequate for two, but a third passenger will find it cramped. The boot offers a respectable 550L, though slightly less than some competitors. The reviewer highlights several quirks, including a complex procedure for accessing the windscreen wipers and a heated steering wheel that gets hotter in certain sections. Despite these drawbacks, the Velar scores points for desirability, its iconic Range Rover badge, and capable off-road modes (though lacking a low-range gearbox). Driving dynamics are described as competent but not class-leading, with a slightly unsettled ride on larger wheels and a noticeable delay in acceleration response. The 0-60 mph time for the D200 diesel variant was recorded at 8.33 seconds, slower than Land Rover's claim. Ultimately, the Velar is recommended for shortlisting due to its strong desirability and styling, even if it falls short of German rivals in interior usability and driving refinement.