Ready for action with Land Rover

The Land Rover brand has been synonymous with equestrian sport for generations and its prestigious history has been further enhanced by its title sponsorship of Burghley Horse Trials.

“On the world stage, The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials is second to none. With the added excitement of the Rolex Grand Slam, this year’s event is set to be a thrilling climax to the eventing calendar,” says John Edwards, Land Rover UK managing director.

“The company has been a sponsor of Burghley for many years as the official vehicle supplier, supporting veterinary teams and officials with a fleet of Land Rovers. Extending this relationship to title sponsor last year has been a great honour and we look forward to building on last year’s successes.”

The recent introductions of the Discovery 3 and the Range Rover Sport to the Land Rover range of vehicles have resulted in sales continuing to grow the world-over, with sales in 2005 being the best in the company’s history.

This year will see further additions to the Land Rover stable, with the introduction of the all-new Freelander 2, which will make its debut appearance at The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials this year, together with the Range Rover for 2007.

New from the ground up, Freelander 2 delivers outstanding on-road performance as well as the class-leading off-road ability of a true Land Rover. A dynamic design, purposeful stance, smart and spacious interior, and an abundance of advanced technologies complete the package.

“No other compact 4×4 has anything like its total breadth of capability,” says Phil Popham, Land Rover’s managing director.

“The Freelander 2 sets new standards in the sector, combining the advantages of a premium car — such as polished ride, accomplished performance, attractive cabin and ease-of-use — with the attributes of a robust 4×4, including go-anywhere ability, toughness, panoramic seating, cabin versatility and spaciousness.

“We believe that no other compact 4×4 gets closer to blending these best-of-both-worlds abilities.”

Meanwhile, Range Rover fans can look forward to a series of enhancements in next year’s flagship vehicle including a powerful new V8 diesel engine, a host of technical upgrades, such as Land Rover’s patented Terrain Response system, and an improved cabin for extra storage and comfort.

The turbocharged 272 bhp/PS (200 kW) TDV8 diesel makes its debut in the Range Rover. Like all Land Rover engines, it is lightweight, compact and extremely strong. Compared with the six-cylinder diesel it replaces, it is 54% more powerful, delivers 64% more torque, and yet has the same fuel economy.

“The TDV8 diesel is a great new engine, to power one of the world’s great vehicles – the most complete luxury 4×4,” says Phil Popham. “Its balance of performance, refinement and economy is unmatched. We believe it makes the Range Rover an even more desirable vehicle, especially in strong diesel markets, and will appeal to many customers who’ve never considered a diesel before.

“Performance is similar to many more obviously sporty vehicles and fuel economy is comparable with a lot of petrol saloon cars. Yet the new Range Rover delivers so much more – great comfort, huge carrying capacity, awesome off-road capability and massive towing ability, all with exemplary refinement.”

The Range Rover’s outstanding off-road capability is enhanced by the addition of Terrain Response as standard for all 2007 models, together with a centre ‘e’ (electronic) differential and the availability of a rear ‘e’ differential. Terrain Response allows the driver to select one of five settings on the rotary switch, to suit the terrain. The vehicle’s electronic and mechanical controls are then optimised to tackle the specific conditions.

“Terrain Response improves absolute off-road ability while reducing driver effort: off-road performance has never been easier,” says Phil Popham. “It benefits on-road driving too, and perfectly exemplifies Land Rover’s belief in offering the greatest breadth of capability in the class.”

The cabin gains better stowage space, including a new twin glovebox, an enhanced airbag package, a cleaner centre console design, an electronic parking brake, a new upper facia and substantially improved air-conditioning and ventilation. Switchgear and the audio system have been improved, and there are more extensive wood and metallic finishes, all contributing to an enhanced premium feel. Front seats now offer an optional cooling function, as well as a standard heating feature, and active head restraints contribute to improved safety.

“The most complete luxury 4×4 in the world is now even better,” says Phil Popham. “The outstanding supercharged V8 and normally aspirated petrol V8 are joined by an equally impressive new diesel V8. It is an unbeatable engine range, reinforcing the Range Rover’s unassailable position at the very pinnacle of the luxury 4×4 sector.”