

Much like the Velar's acceleration, its handling is by no means sporty. 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. 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 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'd also suggest adding the Dynamic Handling package, which includes an adjustable suspension system, a drive-mode selector, and All Terrain Progress Control, which acts as a sort of adaptive cruise control for low speeds or in slippery conditions. We'd recommend going with the P250 R-Dynamic S, which adds 19-inch wheels, a dual exhaust with polished finishers, a blacked-out grille, and leather-and-suede interior upholstery. An adjustable air suspension and adaptive damper system are both standard, too.

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. 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. It’s nice to be in rather than great to drive. This is a high-style SUV with undeniable road presence and a well-respected luxury name badge. Just don’t expect the Velar's on-road demeanor to be as engaging or refined as the BMW X3 ’s, Genesis GV70 ’s, or Porsche Macan ’s. A pair of turbocharged engines are on offer-a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter inline-six that also features supercharging-and all-wheel drive is standard. Now in its sixth year of production the 2023 model looks much the same as the original, which is no bad thing. In the years since the Velar debuted, its stable mates-including the full-size Range Rover and the smaller Range Rover Evoque-have adopted many of its new-wave styling cues. Range Rover’s lineup has gotten more stylish through the years, but the arrival of the Velar in 2018 was the catalyst that pushed the brand's design aesthetic farther than it had ever gone before.
