For the 2012 model year, Land Rover is giving the LR4 and Range Rover Sport midsize SUVs some small updates. Headlining the changes are an all-new eight-speed transmission and a power bump for the 3.0-liter V-6 diesel.
The oil-burning V-6 sees a power boost from 242 hp to 252 hp thanks, in part, to the new ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission. The extra gearing and a new low-flow fuel injection system help the V-6 to reduce emissions in both the LR4 and the Range Rover Sport. Then new transmission also sports steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and a new rotary control knob on the center console, identical to that found in the Range Rover Evoque.
Gasoline-powered offerings continue to use the same engines found in 2011 models. 2012 LR4s continue to use a 5.0-liter V-8 — good for 375 hp and 510-lb-ft of torque — paired with a six-speed automatic. Range Rover Sports also stick with a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8, which cranks out a scalding 510 hp and 625 lb-ft of torque.
Both the LR4 and the Range Rover Sport have received an updated touch-screen navigation system with improved voice control, as well as a new Harmon/Kardon Logic7 surround-sound system with a built-in music storage hard drive. The duo also receives an updated information panel and gauges, revamped steering column stalks, Bluetooth audio streaming, a smaller key fob, and an updated rear entertainment system with a USB input.
The LR4 receives two new sets of alloy wheels, a set of new option packages, and new exterior paint colors. The Range Rover Sport sees a host of minor updates including a programmable power rear tailgate, new exterior trim colors, and revised wheel center caps.
Sadly, there are no plans to bring the diesel V-6 or the eight-speed auto to North America at this time, but the remainder of the 2012 updates should arrive in U.S. dealerships this fall. Would you want to see the diesel Land Rovers here? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
