It is well-proportioned, styled to perfection with lines and detailing in all the right places. The power and transfer systems may have played a big role in the drivability of the Velar, but it was the styling and levels of luxury that sealed the deal. Our test model was also fitted with Range Rover’s Configurable Dynamics system which lets you select specific chassis and powertrain settings to suit your preferred driving style, with gearbox mapping, steering and suspension configurations that allow you to tackle just about anything, from snow and ice to sand and rocks, and even the race-track. I will admit that it was absolutely worth it, every time. With reasonable driving the Velar returned roughly 11l/100km after a week of mixed driving, but punching the accelerator would see that number skyrocket to 16 l/100km. The caveat, though, is that the Velar is thirsty, very thirsty. It may not have as much power output or torque as its F-Pace cousin, but the way it delivers it is absolutely astounding. To say that the Velar is powerful is an understatement. It carried itself like a debutante, wafting through a ballroom, only stopping every now and again to wave its fan seductively. The Velar became instantly likeable from the first startup, handling city traffic and highway speeds with rarely any indication that the environment had changed.
It delivers 280kW to the wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission and a very intelligent Terrain Response 2 AWD system. Out test vehicle was powered by the 3.0-litre supercharged petrol engine. It is an elegant and sophisticated creation, with luxury and technology all rolled into one very neat bundle, so let’s begin with the most revered aspect of this ultra-premium SUV the engine and drivetrain. The Velar was met with acclaim worldwide and is well-deserving of the compliments showered upon it by the motoring press. We’ll get to the disappointing part later. It is not often that I become completely enamoured with a vehicle, but the P380 HSE Velar from Range Rover absolutely deserves the praise that I am about to heap upon it.