2025 Range Rover: Drivetrains Across All Years and Models
The Range Rover lineup showcases the continued evolution of Land Rover in drivetrain technology, offering unparalleled on-road refinement without compromising the legendary off-road capability that defines the brand. From the flagship Range Rover to the dynamic Sport, versatile Velar, and compact Evoque, each model incorporates sophisticated drivetrain components engineered to deliver optimal performance across diverse terrain and driving conditions.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Systems
Intelligent Driveline Dynamics
At the heart of every Range Rover model is the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) system, which continuously monitors driving conditions and distributes torque between the front and rear axles to optimize traction, handling, and efficiency. The system has faster-acting electronic control units that can adjust torque distribution in as little as 100 milliseconds, significantly enhancing vehicle stability during rapid changes in surface conditions.
Active Locking Rear Differential
The flagship Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models feature an advanced active locking rear differential that works in conjunction with the IDD system. This electronically controlled differential can lock instantly when needed, providing maximum traction in challenging off-road situations. The differential has been upgraded with improved cooling capacity, allowing for sustained operation in demanding conditions without performance degradation.
Transmission Technology
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
All Range Rover models utilize a sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission engineered to deliver smooth shifts and optimal power delivery. The transmission features adaptive shift technology that learns the driver's behaviour and adjusts the shift patterns accordingly. Shift speed has been improved by approximately 18%, resulting in more responsive acceleration and smoother power delivery. The transmission also incorporates a new low-friction fluid that improves efficiency by up to 2% while extending service intervals to 90,000 kilometres.
Dual-Range Transfer Case
The Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models feature a dual-range transfer case, providing both high and low range gearing. The low-range option delivers a 2.93:1 reduction ratio, significantly enhancing torque multiplication for challenging off-road scenarios. The transfer case features electronic actuation, enabling shifts between high and low ranges in under two seconds, even while the vehicle is in motion at speeds of up to 60 km/h, representing a significant improvement over previous generations.
Terrain Response System
Terrain Response 2 with Adaptive Dynamics
The Range Rover lineup features the latest generation Terrain Response 2 system, which automatically selects the optimal driving mode based on surface conditions. The system has new machine learning algorithms that adapt to individual driving styles and preferences. The system now offers seven distinct driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, and Dynamic, each adjusting up to 13 different vehicle parameters, including throttle response, transmission shift points, differential locking strategy, and suspension settings.
Configurable Terrain Response
The Configurable Terrain Response feature allows drivers to customize individual parameters within each driving mode. This system enables the creation of personalized settings for specific conditions or preferences, allowing for the independent adjustment of steering weight, throttle response, transmission behaviour, and differential settings. You can save and access up to four custom profiles via the Pivi Pro infotainment system.
Electronic Air Suspension
Dynamic Air Suspension System
The Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models feature an advanced Dynamic Air Suspension system that provides up to 135 mm of suspension travel. The system can lower the vehicle by 50 mm for improved aerodynamics at highway speeds or raise it by 85 mm for increased ground clearance during off-road driving. The air springs feature variable volume technology that adjusts spring rate in milliseconds, providing a perfect balance between comfort and control regardless of driving conditions.
Predictive Suspension Adaptation
A groundbreaking feature in new models is the predictive suspension adaptation system, which uses navigation data to anticipate upcoming road conditions. When approaching corners, undulations, or surface changes, the system pre-emptively adjusts suspension settings to optimize vehicle dynamics. This technology significantly enhances ride comfort by preparing the vehicle for road imperfections before they happen, reducing vertical body movement by up to 65% compared to reactive systems.
Model-Specific Drivetrain Features
Range Rover Flagship
The standard Range Rover features the lineup’s most advanced drivetrain, with a fully active electronic center differential and multi-plate clutch pack that distributes up to 100% of torque to either axle as needed. The flagship model also introduces an enhanced wade sensing system that detects water, automatically raises the suspension, and adjusts drivetrain settings to allow safe passage through depths of up to 900 mm without any modifications.
Range Rover Sport Performance
The Range Rover Sport introduces the new Stormer Handling Pack, featuring Dynamic Response Pro with active anti-roll technology. This system utilizes a 48V electronic active roll control, capable of applying up to 1,400 Nm of torque across each axle. This system virtually eliminates body roll during cornering while maintaining excellent wheel articulation during off-road driving. The Sport model also features torque vectoring by braking, which enhances agility by applying braking force to individual wheels during cornering.
Velar Intelligent Driveline
The Range Rover Velar features a lighter, more compact all-wheel drive system optimized for on-road performance while maintaining substantial off-road capability. The system incorporates a passive center coupling that provides a default 50:50 front-to-rear torque split, transitioning to a rear-biased distribution during dynamic driving. The Velar also features Adaptive Dynamics, which utilizes continuously variable dampers that monitor vehicle movements up to 500 times per second, adjusting damping forces to optimize body control and ride comfort.
Evoque Active Driveline
The compact Range Rover Evoque uses the Active Driveline system, which switches between two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive in less than 300 milliseconds. During steady cruising, the system disengages the rear axle to improve fuel efficiency and instantly reconnects when the vehicle needs more traction. It also uses Driveline Disconnect technology to reduce parasitic losses when all-wheel drive isn’t necessary.
Electrified Drivetrains
Plug-in Hybrid Integration
The P440e and P510e plug-in hybrid variants feature a sophisticated integration of electric and conventional drivetrains. These models incorporate a 105 kW electric motor integrated with the transmission, capable of delivering electric-only propulsion at speeds up to 140 km/h. The electric motor is positioned between the combustion engine and transmission, allowing for seamless transitions between power sources without compromising off-road capability. The system provides up to 80 kilometres of electric-only range while maintaining the full suite of Terrain Response features.
Mild Hybrid Enhancement
The P400 mild hybrid models feature a 48V electrical system with a belt-integrated starter generator, providing up to 140 Nm of additional torque when needed. This system harvests energy during deceleration and delivers it during acceleration, improving both performance and efficiency. The system features enhanced power density, providing a 20% increase in electrical assistance compared to previous generations.
Five Facts About Range Rover Drivetrains
The flagship Range Rover features 12 interconnected electronic control units dedicated solely to drivetrain management, processing over 10,000 inputs per second to optimize performance and capability.
The Range Rover can wade through water up to 900 mm deep without any modifications, thanks to its raised air intake and sealed drivetrain components.
The all-wheel steering system can adjust rear wheel angle up to 7.3 degrees in either direction in just 0.5 seconds, improving both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
With all-wheel steering, the Range Rover has a turning circle of just 10.95 metres, smaller than many compact sedans despite its substantial size.
The Dynamic Response Pro system in the Range Rover Sport can apply up to 1,400 Nm of torque across each axle to control body roll, equivalent to the output of some high-performance sports cars.
Questions and Answers
How does the Range Rover Terrain Response 2 system differ from competing systems in other luxury SUVs?
The Terrain Response 2 system distinguishes itself through its predictive capabilities and comprehensive vehicle integration. Unlike competing systems that primarily adjust throttle response and transmission behaviour, Terrain Response 2 simultaneously controls up to 13 different vehicle systems, including active differentials, suspension height, brake bias, and stability control thresholds. The system also features a unique auto mode that uses artificial intelligence to continuously monitor surface conditions and driver inputs, proactively selecting the optimal driving mode without requiring manual intervention. The system incorporates topographical data from the navigation system to anticipate changes in terrain before they happen, preparing the vehicle for optimal performance.
What maintenance does the Range Rover all-wheel drive system require?
The all-wheel drive system is designed for minimal maintenance while ensuring long-term reliability. The transfer case and differential fluids should be changed at 90,000-kilometre intervals under normal driving conditions, or 60,000 kilometres if the vehicle is regularly used in demanding off-road environments. The electronic control systems perform continuous self-diagnostics, alerting drivers to potential issues before they affect performance. For new models, Land Rover has implemented enhanced sealing technology and premium synthetic fluids that better resist thermal breakdown, extending service intervals by approximately 50% compared to previous generations. The air suspension system should be visually inspected during regular service appointments; however, it typically requires no maintenance beyond this inspection.
How does the Range Rover drivetrain adapt to extreme weather conditions?
The drivetrain incorporates several technologies specifically designed for operation in extreme weather conditions. In cold conditions, the electronic differentials feature a pre-emptive warming function that circulates fluid before driving to ensure optimal performance from startup. The Terrain Response system includes a specific Snow/Ice mode that adjusts throttle sensitivity, implements earlier upshifts, and modifies stability control parameters to enhance traction on slippery surfaces. For hot weather operation, all drivetrain components feature enhanced cooling systems, with the transfer case and rear differential incorporating dedicated heat exchangers on V8 and PHEV models. Additionally, the air suspension system automatically compensates for temperature-related pressure changes, maintaining consistent ride height regardless of ambient conditions.
Can the Range Rover drivetrain be damaged during off-road driving?
The drivetrain has substantial protection against off-road damage. All vulnerable components have a three mm-thick high-strength aluminum underbody panels that deflect impacts from rocks and obstacles. Critical drivetrain components are positioned above the vehicle’s minimum ground clearance point, reducing the risk of impact damage. Additionally, the electronic control systems incorporate sophisticated protection algorithms that can detect excessive slip or unusual loads, implementing protective measures such as torque reduction or differential locking to prevent damage to components. In the unlikely event that extreme conditions happen, the vehicle’s Off-Road Information Centre provides real-time feedback on articulation, differential status, and approach/departure angles to help drivers navigate challenging terrain safely.
How does the plug-in hybrid system affect the Range Rover off-road capability?
The plug-in hybrid system in the P440e and P510e models enhances rather than compromises the legendary off-road capability. The high-voltage battery pack is positioned within the vehicle’s wheelbase and protected by a robust 6 mm composite shield, maintaining the standard model’s ground clearance and approach/departure angles. The instant torque availability from the electric motor actually improves low-speed control during technical off-road maneuvers, with precise throttle response that enhances driver confidence. The hybrid system’s regenerative braking capability provides enhanced hill descent control. At the same time, the electric-only mode offers silent off-road operation, allowing drivers to hear external guidance during challenging maneuvers. All Terrain Response 2 modes remain fully functional in hybrid models, with specific calibration to optimize the balance between electric and combustion power across different surfaces.
