Range Rover's 89g/km hybrid 17 | 02 | 2011

RANGE ROVER will take the battle to those environmental lobbyists eager to brand the company's cars as "gas-guzzlers" by unveiling a 89g/km diesel-electric plug-in hybrid version of the Range Rover Sport at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

Powered by a 3.0-litre TDV6 engine and an unspecified electric motor and battery pack mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, the all-wheel-drive model — badged Range_e — is capable of travelling up to 20 miles on electric power alone, a major contribution to its low CO2 figure. It also has a top speed of 120mph.

The company will also use the Geneva show as the platform to announce prices for its new Range Rover Evoque range; when it enters Scottish dealership showrooms, expect prices to start at around £30,000.

Evoque customers visiting Geneva will also be able to create a specially-tailored car based around three themes: Pure, Prestige and Dynamic.

“The choices range from designer exterior packs, contrasting colours on the roof and spoiler, immaculately trimmed designer interiors, and a range of desirable technologies to maximise comfort and enjoyment on board,” a Land Rover spokesman said.

All this will happen in addition to the appearance of two new special edition models: the £130,000 Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition and the Discovery 4 Landmark Black and White models.

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