Land Rover isn’t kidding anymore. The British automaker prepares hybridization of the most popular models. We already announced that they are testing the Range Rover Sport and Evoque hybrids, yet today we’ve managed to catch a prototype of the 2018 Range Rover Plug-In Hybrid. Yes, Land Rover’s best and highly luxurious SUV is getting a new hybrid powertrain and some mid-cycle updates all over the body.
Styling Changes
The camouflaged prototype hosts a number of changes in the front. There is a completely new grille, as well as a more massive bumper. Both headlights and taillights are getting new graphics, while the wheels should feature different patterns.
Hybrid System
The carmaker seems to hides a charging port in the front, just below the grille. The hybrid drivetrain will combine a four-cylinder engine and an Electric Drive Module. The gasoline Ingenium engine will deliver around 295 horsepower, while the electric part of the drivetrain should add 201 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The system will be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The battery will be stored under the trunk’s floor. According to information we have, the electric-only range will be around 30 miles, which isn’t too bad for the large off-road 2018 Range Rover Plug-In Hybrid.
Other Engine Options
We don’t expect any big changes for other options. The SUV currently offers a range of gasoline and diesel mills, which might feature a slight power boost. In North America, the 2018 Range Rover will come with supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 that delivers 340 horsepower and with a 5.0-liter V8, which provides 510 and 550 horsepower. The carmaker will continue to offer a sole oil-burner model that will use 254 horsepower strong turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 diesel. Of course, all engines will be mated to the eight-speed auto gearbox and all-wheel drive.
The facelifted 2018 Range Rover will be introduced sometime this year, while the all-new gasoline-powered plug-in hybrid model should come a little bit later, possibly in early 2018.
