The Range Rover, a product of Land Rover, is a quintessential SUV with a rich history spanning over half a century. When embarking on the journey to buy a previously owned Range Rover, it's crucial to understand its evolution, common concerns associated with these models.
The dawn of the Range Rover era begun in 1970 and continued until the 1992 model year. These vehicles, fondly termed as the Classic models, were a symbol of power and sophistication. They boasted four doors and were powered by strong V8 engines in the American market. Additionally, automatic transmission was a standard feature in these models.
The second generation of Range Rovers, produced between 1996 and 2002, brought with it an upgraded interior and enhanced user-friendly features. Despite having a single wheelbase, these models provided two V8 engine options for buyers to choose from.
The third-generation models marked a turning point for Range Rovers, with a complete redesign of the model using technology developed by BMW. As pointed out by Autotrader, the L322 initially featured a BMW V8 engine before being upgraded in 2006 with a new transmission and a more potent Jaguar-Land Rover V8.
The fourth generation, introduced in 2013, was another milestone for the Range Rover brand. This generation featured a major redesign, reflecting a more modern and sleek aesthetic. A plug-in hybrid version was also launched in 2019, marking the brand's shift towards environmentally friendly options.
The fifth-generation models, which began in the 2022 model year, have brought some significant changes to the Range Rover lineup. For the first time, a 3-row Range Rover was introduced, along with additional eco-friendly hybrid options.
Like any vehicle, the Range Rover has its own set of common issues that have been reported by owners over the years:
Costly Repairs: High repair costs are one of the top concerns for Range Rover owners, particularly for older models which may require frequent maintenance.
Poor Fuel Economy: Another common issue is the Range Rover's lackluster fuel efficiency. Older models are often reported to have high fuel consumption.
Depreciation: According to HotCars, Range Rovers depreciate faster than most used cars. Once a new car leaves the lot, it loses about 20% of its value, and luxury cars like the Range Rover can depreciate up to 20% per year, resulting in a potential 70% reduction in value over five years.
One of the biggest advantages of buying a used Land Rover is the lower price tag. A used car can be significantly cheaper than a brand-new model, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. However, it's important to have any used car inspected by a qualified technician before purchasing to ensure there are no hidden issues.
On the other hand, certified pre-owned (CPO) Land Rovers offer a sense of assurance that used cars don't. CPO models must meet strict criteria set by the manufacturer, including passing a 165-point inspection. This means that CPO Land Rovers are often of higher quality than typical used cars. Additionally, CPO vehicles often come with added benefits such as extended warranties and roadside assistance.
The answer to this question largely depends on personal preferences. While used Range Rovers have developed a reputation for being unreliable, they are not inherently bad vehicles. They may require a bit more patience and maintenance than other luxury vehicles, but the price point of a used Range Rover can be quite attractive.