Updated 2024 Range Rover Velar debuts
Land Rover’s sleekest model picks up new tech and styling elements
Land Rover has revealed an updated version of the Range Rover Velar, the brand’s sleek five-seater SUV that sits between the compact Evoque and larger Range Rover Sport. The Velar’s 2024 model year updates don’t move the game on in any major way, but the model does adopt the latest suite of JLR’s user interface features and upgraded module for the plug-in hybrid. All models are available to order now, starting at £54,054.
The biggest technical changes apply to the P400e plug-in hybrid powertrain option. Here, it pairs a 296bhp 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor fitted between the engine and eight-speed transmission. The upgrades pertain specifically to the battery pack, which is both more efficient and capable. Unlike many plug-in hybrid powertrains, the Velar can charge at up to 50kW, filling the larger 19.2kWh battery in just 30 minutes. The larger battery pack also increases the all-electric range, which is now up to 40 miles, a 20 per cent increase compared to before.
Together, the two power units produce 400bhp and 472lb ft of torque that are enough to send the Velar to 62mph from standstill in 5.4sec. Alongside the updated plug-in powertrain, the Velar’s previous mild-hybrid in-line four-cylinder and straight-six Ingenium petrol and diesel engines make up the remaining powertrain options, topped off by a 396bhp straight-six P400 petrol.
Exterior changes are limited to new lighting units front and rear, new wheel designs and a fresh grille – all inspired by the latest Range Rover Sport. Inside, the changes are more dramatic with the removal of the original’s dual-screen interface which has been swapped over to the same floating curved glass display seen elsewhere in JLR products. Underneath the screen is a completely redesigned console that’s almost completely free of any controls, featuring only the gear selector.
Land Rover has also extended the availability of its leather-free interior trim options, and updated the driver information display and user interface elements to JLR’s latest suite.