The Ultimate Guide to the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Performance, Luxury, and What to Know Before You Buy

Are you considering a luxury SUV that blends exhilarating performance with unparalleled comfort and off-road prowess? The market for pre-owned luxury vehicles offers incredible value, but navigating the options can be daunting. Among the contenders, the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport stands out as a compelling choice. But is it the right fit for you?

This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about the 2014 Range Rover Sport, from its powerful engines and opulent interior to its renowned off-road capabilities and crucial considerations for potential buyers. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of what it's like to own this sophisticated machine and whether it aligns with your driving aspirations.

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: A Legacy of Power and Prestige

When it first debuted, the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport marked a significant evolution for the model, shedding considerable weight thanks to an aluminum unibody construction and offering enhanced performance and efficiency. It positioned itself as a premium people mover, equally at home on the pavement as it is off, without sacrificing comfort or performance.

Engine Options and Dynamic Performance

The heart of any luxury performance SUV lies in its powertrain, and the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offers two supercharged engine options, both paired with an advanced 8-speed ZF automatic transmission that delivers immediate responses.

• 3.0L Supercharged V6: This engine, standard on SE and HSE trims, produces a robust 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. It offers a good balance of power and efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Land Rover claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds for the V6.
• 5.0L Supercharged V8: For those craving more exhilarating performance, the Supercharged and Autobiography trims feature a formidable 5.0-liter V8 engine, unleashing 510 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse can propel the 2014 Range Rover Sport from 0-60 mph in a blistering 4.6 to 5.0 seconds. However, this power comes with a trade-off in fuel economy, rated at 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

Beyond raw power, the 2014 Range Rover Sport was praised for its improved handling and more composed ride compared to its predecessor, feeling more agile on twisty roads.

Off-Road Prowess: Beyond the Pavement

While many luxury SUVs rarely leave the asphalt, the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport upholds Land Rover's legendary off-road reputation. It comes standard with full-time four-wheel drive, hill descent control, and hill start assist.

Its advanced Terrain Response system, which optimizes the vehicle's powertrain, suspension, and electronics for increased traction in various conditions like gravel, snow, mud, sand, and rocks, is a key feature. Supercharged models, and optionally V6 models, can also be equipped with a two-speed transfer case providing high- and low-range gearing for more serious off-roading. The air suspension system can also be raised or lowered, providing additional ground clearance when needed.

Luxury Redefined: Inside the 2014 Range Rover Sport

Step inside the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, and you're greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and sophistication. The interior design is modern and high-class, featuring quality materials and comfortable seating.

Key interior features include:

• Infotainment: An 8-inch LCD touchscreen is standard, providing access to Bluetooth integration, navigation, and a rearview camera. While advanced for its time, potential buyers should note that the infotainment system may feel dated compared to newer vehicles, and it lacks connected features like online local search.
• Comfort and Convenience: Standard features often include keyless entry and ignition, dual automatic climate control, and power front seats with memory. Higher trims like the HSE add a panoramic sunroof and improved leather quality, while the Autobiography takes luxury to an extreme with features like heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats.
• Seating: The 2014 Range Rover Sport is primarily a five-passenger SUV, but an optional third-row seat can increase capacity to seven. However, this third row is generally considered suitable only for children.

What to Know Before You Buy: Common Issues and Reliability of the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

While the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offers an impressive blend of capabilities, potential buyers of a used model should be aware of common issues and consider its reliability. Consumer reviews on reliability are mixed, with some owners praising it and others reporting significant mechanical problems. J.D. Power gives the 2014 model an "Average" rating for Quality & Reliability.

Common issues reported for the 2014-2021 Range Rover Sport (L494 generation) include:

• Air Suspension Faults: Due to its complexity, the air suspension system can be prone to issues. Signs include a sagging vehicle or warning lights.
• Electrical System Complications: Owners have reported various electrical gremlins, including issues with the infotainment system (unresponsiveness, freezes) and faulty door latches that can cause doors to open unintentionally. Land Rover even issued recalls for door latch problems.
• Engine-Related Issues: While powerful, some engines, particularly the V8, can be prone to oil leaks. Turbocharger wear and premature timing chain issues have also been reported on certain models.
• Suspension Component Wear: Heavy luxury SUVs can experience faster wear on components like front suspension arms, tie bars, and anti-roll bar bushes, leading to less responsive steering.
• Brake Wear: Given its weight and performance capabilities, the 2014 Range Rover Sport is known for going through brake discs and pads relatively quickly.

These issues can lead to costly repairs, so budgeting for potential maintenance is crucial.

Buying a Used 2014 Range Rover Sport: Your Essential Checklist

If the allure of the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport still holds strong, here are actionable steps to ensure you make an informed purchase:

1. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): This is paramount. Have a trusted independent mechanic specializing in Land Rovers inspect the vehicle thoroughly. They can identify potential issues with the air suspension, electrical systems, and engine that might not be obvious during a test drive.
2. Review Service Records: A comprehensive service history is your best friend. Look for evidence of regular maintenance and any major repairs, especially those related to common issues. This indicates how well the previous owner cared for the vehicle.
3. Test Drive Extensively: Don't just take it around the block. Drive on various road surfaces, including highways and some rougher terrain if possible (safely and legally). Pay attention to:
   • Any unusual noises from the suspension (clunks, hisses).
   • Smoothness of gear shifts.
   • Functionality of all electronics, including the infotainment screen, power windows, and door locks.
   • How the air suspension responds when adjusting height.
4. Budget for Maintenance: Even a well-maintained 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport will likely incur higher maintenance costs than a non-luxury vehicle. Factor in potential future repairs and routine servicing when calculating your overall ownership cost.

Maintaining Your 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Keeping It Peak Performance

Owning a 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is an investment that requires diligent care to maintain its performance and luxury.

• Adhere to Service Schedules: Follow Land Rover's recommended maintenance schedule meticulously. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and filter replacements are crucial for engine longevity.
• Monitor Air Suspension: Be vigilant for any signs of air suspension issues, such as uneven ride height or compressor noise. Addressing these early can prevent more costly repairs.
• Brake Checks: Due to the vehicle's weight and performance, regularly inspect brake pads and rotors for wear and replace them as needed.
• Address Warning Lights Promptly: Never ignore dashboard warning lights. Get them diagnosed by a qualified technician immediately to prevent minor issues from escalating.
• Keep it Clean: Regular cleaning, both interior and exterior, will help preserve the luxury feel and protect the vehicle's finishes.

Conclusion

The 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport remains a highly desirable luxury SUV, offering a compelling blend of powerful performance, a supremely comfortable and luxurious interior, and genuine off-road capability. It's a vehicle that can effortlessly transition from daily commutes to adventurous weekend getaways, delivering a truly engaging driving experience.

However, like any sophisticated pre-owned luxury vehicle, it comes with its considerations, particularly regarding potential maintenance and reliability. By understanding its strengths and common issues, and by approaching a purchase with a thorough inspection and a realistic budget for upkeep, you can enjoy the prestige and performance that a 2014 Range Rover Sport has to offer.

Are you an owner of a 2014 Range Rover Sport? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport reliable?

Reliability reviews for the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport are mixed. While some owners report positive experiences, others have encountered significant mechanical and electrical issues, leading to higher maintenance costs. J.D. Power gave it an "Average" rating for Quality & Reliability.

What are the common problems with the 2014 Range Rover Sport?

Common problems reported for the 2014 Range Rover Sport include air suspension faults, electrical issues (such as infotainment glitches and door latch malfunctions), oil leaks (especially on V8 models), turbocharger wear, and premature wear of suspension components.

What is the fuel economy of the 2014 Range Rover Sport?

The fuel economy for the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport varies by engine. The 3.0L Supercharged V6 is rated at an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway/19 mpg combined. The more powerful 5.0L Supercharged V8 is rated at 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway/16 mpg combined.

Is the 2014 Range Rover Sport good off-road?

Yes, the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is highly capable off-road. It features Land Rover's renowned full-time four-wheel drive system, Terrain Response system, and adjustable air suspension, allowing it to handle various challenging terrains. While designed to be more road-focused than the full-size Range Rover, it still maintains significant off-road prowess.