Unleashing the Beast: The 2017 Range Rover Sport Where Luxury Meets Unrivaled Power

Are you searching for an SUV that doesn't compromise on opulent comfort or exhilarating performance? Many drivers face the dilemma of choosing between a plush ride and a powerful machine. What if you could have both? The 2017 Range Rover Sport stands as a testament to this very possibility, seamlessly blending high-end luxury with formidable power and off-road prowess. This article delves deep into what makes the 2017 Range Rover Sport a truly exceptional vehicle, examining its design, performance, technology, and overall driving experience.

The Allure of the 2017 Range Rover Sport: Design and Aesthetics

From the moment you lay eyes on the 2017 Range Rover Sport, its athletic yet sophisticated silhouette commands attention. It’s a vehicle that exudes confidence, whether cruising city streets or tackling rugged landscapes. With a sleek profile, bold lines, and that unmistakable Range Rover front fascia, it effortlessly stands out in the luxury SUV segment.

A Cabin Crafted for Comfort and Style

Step inside the 2017 Range Rover Sport, and you're immediately enveloped in an environment of premium comfort and quintessential British luxury. The cabin is meticulously crafted, featuring high-quality materials throughout. Standard features include leather upholstery and soft-touch materials, complemented by ambient cabin lighting. For those seeking an even more elevated experience, higher trims offer perforated leather upholstery and exquisite trim accents.

The seating is designed for lavish comfort, with even the base trim offering 14-way power-adjustable front seats. Need to accommodate more passengers? An available power-folding third row can expand seating capacity to seven, though it's best suited for children. The spacious and adaptable passenger and cargo setup means you get 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to an impressive 62.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. Loading is made easy with a standard hands-free power liftgate, and the air suspension can even lower the vehicle for easier access.

Power and Performance: Beyond the Pavement

The "Sport" in Range Rover Sport isn't just for show; this vehicle is engineered for dynamic driving, both on and off the road. Its lightweight aluminum body structure contributes to dynamic handling.

Engine Options That Impress

The 2017 Range Rover Sport offers a range of potent engine choices to suit various preferences:

• 3.0-liter Supercharged V6: This is the standard engine for SE and HSE models, delivering 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. A 380-horsepower version is also available on HSE trims.
• 3.0-liter Turbodiesel V6: For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, this option provides 254 horsepower and a robust 443 pound-feet of torque, making it the most fuel-efficient choice.
• 5.0-liter Supercharged V8: Found in the Supercharged and Autobiography versions, this V8 unleashes 510 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. The top-tier SVR trim pushes this even further to 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque, enabling a blistering 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.5 to 4.6 seconds.

All engine options are paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time four-wheel drive.

Unrivaled Off-Road Prowess

True to its Land Rover heritage, the 2017 Range Rover Sport boasts genuine off-road capabilities that few luxury SUVs can match. It features a self-leveling air suspension with automatic height adjustment, and the pioneering Terrain Response system allows the vehicle to adapt its settings to various surfaces like mud, wet grass, ice, or gravel. The updated 4x4i menu provides crucial vehicle information for challenging terrain. For serious off-roading, a two-speed transfer case with high- and low-range gearing is available on SE and HSE, and standard on Supercharged models. New for 2017, the Low Traction Launch system makes it easier to pull away on slippery surfaces.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety in the 2017 Range Rover Sport

The 2017 Range Rover Sport received significant technology updates, enhancing both connectivity and safety.

Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity

A major highlight for 2017 is the upgraded InControl Touch Pro infotainment system, featuring a larger, more intuitive 10.2-inch touchscreen display. This system allows for smartphone-like pinch, zoom, and swipe gestures, and offers enhanced functionality with smartphone apps. It serves as a central hub for multimedia and real-time navigation.

Comprehensive Safety Features

Land Rover significantly bolstered the safety features for the 2017 model year, with many now standard. These include:

• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rearview camera
• Adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane departure warning with lane keeping assist

Other available safety features include a surround-view camera system, a self-parking system for parallel and perpendicular scenarios, Intelligent Speed Limiter, and Advanced Tow Assist. The Intelligent Speed Limiter uses road signs to help set the vehicle's speed.

The Driving Experience: A Symphony of Comfort and Agility

Driving the 2017 Range Rover Sport is often described as a blend of a sporting sedan and a capable SUV. Its air suspension provides a "creamy" ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease, while still offering dynamic handling. The imperious driving position provides excellent visibility, making you feel confident and in control. Despite its substantial weight, especially with the V8 engines, it remains impressively sporty.

Why the 2017 Range Rover Sport Stands Out

The 2017 Range Rover Sport distinguishes itself through its compelling combination of attributes:

• Dual Nature: It masterfully balances the opulent luxury expected of a Range Rover with the dynamic performance and genuine off-road capabilities of a true SUV.
• Technological Advancements: The introduction of the 10.2-inch InControl Touch Pro system and a suite of new standard safety features significantly updated the model.
• Engine Variety: A strong selection of engines, from the efficient turbodiesel to the exhilarating supercharged V8s, caters to diverse needs and driving styles.
• Unmistakable Presence: Its bold styling and luxurious interior make it a status symbol that turns heads and offers a truly premium experience.

While some consumer reviews mention potential concerns regarding reliability and infotainment quirks, the overall sentiment is largely positive, with many owners praising its comfort, styling, and powerful engines.

Conclusion

The 2017 Range Rover Sport truly embodies the concept of "luxury meets power." It's an SUV that refuses to compromise, offering a lavish interior, cutting-edge technology, and a range of powerful engines, all wrapped in an undeniably handsome package with serious off-road credentials. If you're seeking a vehicle that can effortlessly transition from a comfortable daily driver to an adventurous off-road companion, the 2017 Range Rover Sport remains a compelling choice.

What are your thoughts on the balance between luxury and performance in an SUV? Share your experiences or questions about the 2017 Range Rover Sport in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the main engine options available in the 2017 Range Rover Sport?

A1: The 2017 Range Rover Sport offers three main engine types: a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 (340 hp or 380 hp), a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 (254 hp), and a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 (510 hp or 550 hp in the SVR trim).

Q2: Did the 2017 Range Rover Sport receive any significant technology upgrades?

A2: Yes, the 2017 model year saw the introduction of the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system with a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like functionality. It also gained new standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.

Q3: Is the 2017 Range Rover Sport good for off-roading?

A3: Absolutely. The 2017 Range Rover Sport maintains Land Rover's reputation for off-road capability, featuring standard full-time four-wheel drive, an advanced air suspension system, and the Terrain Response system to adapt to various challenging surfaces.

Q4: Are there any common issues or recalls for the 2017 Range Rover Sport?

A4: While generally well-regarded, some owners have reported issues such as infotainment system quirks (laggy touch response, camera behavior), and some models were part of a 2018 recall related to fuel system issues (defective fuel gauges) and engine management software. There were also recalls for door latch problems in earlier 2nd generation models, which might be relevant for some 2017 vehicles depending on manufacturing date.