Range Rover SVAutobiography LWB: review

So what can the long-time leader of that sector do to counter that?

Jaguar Land Rover has gone the obvious route and simply produced an even more exclusive Range Rover with an even higher price. Naturally it is exclusively handcrafted by JLR’s own Special Vehicle Operations facility.

Naturally, much of the attention is paid to the interior, specifically the rear. The thinking is that this is a vehicle that may well be owned by someone who gets driven around during the week but likes to take the wheel at the weekend so the staff can have a couple of days off to go picking turnips or whatever they do.

This means there is the option of a short- or a long wheelbase. The long wheelbase version can have the SDV6 Hybrid diesel engine, or the SDV8 turbodiesel or a supercharged V8 petrol unit. We tried the LWB version with the V8 diesel engine as that’s a better combination we think.

This means you have endless rivers of torque whenever you need them, in a subdued but very effective delivery. That seems more in keeping with the vehicle than the peakier and more aggressive petrol V8.

So it’s a fine ride on the road, and still has the legendary abilities off-road, but what is it like inside? The main visual difference in the LWB version here is that there are now two not three seats in the rear. There’s a large centre console between them which houses fold-out trays, and there’s a small fridge to accommodate nice things to add to the trays. We’re talking half bottles here, not a magnum, so owners should plan ahead for long journeys.

The rear seats are certainly large and comfortable. They also feature electric adjustment, heat, massage, and even calf supports. Above there is a vast panoramic sunroof and there are powered window blinds so the occupants don’t have to see the staff picking the turnips. A 1700W Meridian Signature Reference sound system should ensure the rough vowels of people on the outside never penetrate to the interior.

It has to be said this is not the ultimate vehicle to be a rear passenger in. Compared to an S-Class Merc it’s a bit less rigid, a bit less isolating.

One of the aspects that does give a sense of isolation in the rear is the placement of two 10in screens with headphones set into the back of the front seats. Because of their size they block out the view ahead. For some this may be welcome, but it’s a fact that seeing forward is one counter to motion sickness.

Perhaps it’s a good thing that people can’t see in after all. And that the leather should wipe down nicely.

Range Rover SDV8 SVAutobiography LWB

On sale: Now

Price: £165,000

Engine: V8, 4367cc, diesel

Power: 334bhp at 4000rpm

Torque: 546lb ft at 1750rpm

Gearbox: 8-spd automatic

Kerb weight: 2539kg

Top speed: 135mph

0-62mph: 6.6sec

Economy: 33.6mpg (combined)

CO2/tax band: 219g/km, 37%