Overview
This guide reviews each generation of the Land Rover Range Rover, highlighting key features, common issues, purchasing advice, and value considerations for prospective buyers.
Range Rover Classic (1970–1995)
- Launched the luxury SUV segment, designed as a more luxurious Land Rover.
- Early models used unreliable carbureted 3.5L V8; later models included a 3.9L V8 and diesels.
- Typical price for a decent example is around £10,000.
- Not recommended as a daily driver due to age and reliability concerns.
- Major issues include rust, sagging headliner, engine and gearbox problems, and faulty electronics.
- Interiors are minimal; even high-spec versions lack modern amenities.
Range Rover P38 (1994–2002)
- Marked a shift to luxury over utility; gained popularity as a status symbol.
- Offered with BMW-sourced 2.5L diesel, 4.0L V8, and 4.6L V8 engines.
- Prices start as low as £2,000, but £5,000–£7,000 recommended for a quality example.
- Notorious for electrical issues, engine failures, and unreliable V8s.
- Best suited as collector or weekend cars, not daily drivers.
Range Rover L322 (2002–2012)
- Developed under BMW ownership; noted for modern driving feel and build quality.
- Prices range from £1,000 (not advised) to £4,000–£6,000 for reliable examples.
- Vogue spec recommended for comprehensive features.
- Engines include 4.4L V8 and 3.0L straight six turbo diesel; both may have issues.
- Comprehensive vehicle history check recommended before purchase.
- Facelift (2007–2009) 3.6L turbo diesel V8 is considered the best value.
Range Rover L405 (2012–2022)
- Emphasized luxury over off-road capability.
- Autobiography spec offers top-tier features, including massaging seats.
- Used prices start at £12,000; £24,000+ recommended for a facelifted, reliable model.
- Engine options: 3.0L V6 diesel (unreliable), 4.4L V8 diesel, 3.0L supercharged petrol, 5.0L supercharged petrol (most desirable).
- Common issues: turbo failure, timing chain problems (5.0L), air suspension failures, and high insurance due to theft history.
Range Rover L460 (2022–Present)
- Focuses on unmatched luxury, with interiors rivaling Bentley quality.
- Features include massaging, heated/cooled seats, digital tech, and 360 camera.
- Available with diesel, petrol, and plug-in hybrid engines (e.g., P550e).
- Used prices start at £70,000; new models cost up to £140,000.
- High insurance costs due to past thefts, though recent software updates improved security.
Purchasing and Ownership Advice
- Conduct thorough vehicle history checks using platforms like CarVertical before buying.
- Avoid low-priced examples; invest in better-maintained, newer facelift models when possible.
- Watch for air suspension and electrical issues as costly common faults.
- Older models are best kept for collection or occasional use, not daily driving.
Summary of Generations
- L460: Most luxurious.
- L405: Best looking.
- L322: Best all-around Range Rover.
- P38: Classiest.
- Classic: Most iconic.
Recommendations / Advice
- Always inspect for rust and electronic or suspension issues on older models.
- Consider insurance costs, especially for recent models.
- Use provided promo code for discounted vehicle history checks to avoid problematic cars.