What does 'making a statement' mean in the automotive world? What do 'power on wheels' and 'big-bold attitude 'translate into the real world? Chances are, err - what chances? A possibility would be that - the masses, or even experts, would associate all these mentioned terms with Land Rover's range of Range Rovers. Well, why would one not? The kerb appeal, desirability factor, and bold stance make one go head over heels. However, there isn't all that gloomy about Rovers; the price is not in question here, but there are questions over its reliability quotient, electrical gremlins, mechanical and more. Well, Despite all these, the brand has managed to top the luxury SUV tree. The product portfolio they have is rather impressive. The one in question here is the new 2023 facelifted Velar - which slots itself in between the smaller Evoque and the bigger Sport. Does the new Velar stand true in delivering brand ethos? Let's find out.
There are healthy alternatives to Velar, be it the Mercedes GLE, BMW X5, or even enthu special - the Porsche Macan. But none of these SUVs come closer to the Velar when it comes to sheer kerb appeal. Brand loyalists will tend to ignore every shortcoming of the car and appreciate its merit. At around 1.10 crores, Velar seems to be a reasonable proposition. Considering its luxurious appeal, this vehicle excels in terms of driving dynamics and capabilities. However, in the advent of achieving a minimalistic approach, ditching out physical buttons is the only primary grip.
Sampled a 2.0-l diesel engine, which, on paper, is not as powerful. Velar feels like it has a lot of work to do to accelerate with its 204 hp peak power and 430Nm diesel torque. Don't expect sudden oomph when driven hard. However, engine character is better experienced during crushing, or rather, say, when the engine hits its mid-range powerband. The 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox does a good job of extracting maximum potential from the engine; use paddle shifters to make it work even sporty. Well, not literally.
It might have a big-bold appeal from the outside that could make you be mistaken about its driving position as tall and SUVish. Well, in reality - it isn't. It has a nice, comfy, lofty driving position with an adequately good glass area for optimum front visibility. However, thick windscreen pillars could obstruct vision slightly. But parking sensors and cameras have got you covered on that front. It also has a park assist feature that will steer its way in tight parking situations. Front passenger seat ventilation, massage function, nice sounding tunes and active road noise cancellation- yup, that's all you only need after a hectic day at work.
Range Rover Velar gets an air suspension and adaptive damping. However, at low speed, or say in city speed - the ride quality feels a bit too uncomfortable courtesy of the large wheels. Get going and hit a decent speed, and you will appreciate the sophistication of suspension advancement. In terms of handling and braking, you would certainly feel the weight of the car; nevertheless, it is not unnerving by any means.
The biggest gripe I have with the interior update is …. er.. is its interior update. The minimalistic approach that the brand has tried to inculcate has worked otherwise. No doubt the dashboard now looks cleaner and futuristic, but the functionality has been compromised with the form factor. The HVAC controls are now integrated into the new 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment screen. The miss of physical buttons has certainly compromised convenience. Setting up the right blower speed and temperature becomes a tedious task. Operating the infotainment screen for HVAC control in stop-and-go traffic or even at highway speeds requires significant effort to achieve a perfect setting, which I find annoying. Well, despite that, the screen is quite sleek and responsive to operate. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster effectively displays all the required information, but configuring it to meet one's specific needs can be a challenging task.
The exterior changes, however, are minimal, and it's the interior that has seen quite a revision. In India, we don't get a plug-in hybrid version, and what we get is the top-end HSE trim and two powertrain options. Exterior changes are so minimal that only a true brand loyalist would be able to notice a changed front section and a slightly different grille pattern. The redesign of the front fascia is in line with the design cues of its larger siblings. The silhouette remains almost the same on the sides, apart from the new 20-inch alloy wheels. The back of the vehicle has undergone some slight changes, including updates to the tail lamps and a new bumper. Well, to be honest - the design language of the SUV has always been so tempting, and it would be hard not to like one. So, as long as the bold stance is maintained, Velar will find its admirers. However, the same can not be said for the interior changes though.
Engine- 2.0-l diesel
Power- 204 hp
Torque- 430Nm
Price- 93 lakhs (ex-showroom)