Long-wheelbase Range Rover revealed

• First long-wheelbase Range Rover since 1994
• Autobiography Black version set to be most expensive Range Rover ever
• LWB model arrives in March next year

For the first time in 20 years, the Land Rover Range Rover will be offered in long-wheelbase form. This ‘ultimate’ Range Rover will also be available in a new Autobiography Black trim level, which takes what is commonly seen as the best luxury SUV into the same territory as serious luxury cars like the long-wheelbase Mercedes S-Class, BMW 760li and even the Bentley Continental Flying Spur.

The new long-wheelbase Range Rover will make its public debuts at the Los Angeles and Guangzhou, China, Motor Shows next month and will feature 140mm of extra rear legroom over the standard-wheelbase car. Rear seat recline is increased from 8- to 17 degrees, while rear passengers can also move the front passenger seat forward electronically to increase rear legroom. Long-wheelbase models come with powered window blinds and a panoramic sunroof as standard, as well as ‘L’ decals on the exterior detailing behind the front wheelarches. These cars will be available in Autobiography and new Autobiography Black trim levels.

Land Rover will also demonstrate its all-new, Autobiography Black trim level at the forthcoming Dubai Motor Show. This new, ultra-luxurious trim level will be available in long-wheelbase cars only and they are differentiated from their less pricey brethren by a revamped grille, new wheels and a revamped rear on the outside, while on the inside, the new models will receive a raft of improvements, including 10.2-inch screens fitted to the back of the front headrests, electrically deployable, leather-covered tables with integrated USB charging points and cupholders. Autobiography Black models will also come with reclining, massaging leather-upholstered rear seats, a chilled cabinet and a ski-hatch. Customers can also choose precisely what colour LED mood-lighting they want and a choice of three bespoke interior colour combinations at launch – Ebony/Lunar, Espresso/Tan and Dark Cherry/Ivory.

Deliveries of long-wheelbase models will begin in March 2014, with a hybrid version arriving later in the year and they are likely to be priced between £100- and £120,000, while Autobiography Black editions will arrive in August and are likely to be priced between £130- and £140,000.

By James Richardson

@JARichardson1

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