Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2024 Velar stays true to its elegant roots but incorporates subtle design upgrades that enhance its modern, sophisticated look.

Front Fascia:

• Redesigned grille with a cleaner, more refined finish.
• New Pixel LED headlamps that intelligently light up the road and can bend around corners for better visibility.
• An adaptive lighting system adjusts based on speed, offering a wider beam at slower speeds and a longer beam for highway driving.

Side Profile:

• The long, flat bonnet and massive 20-inch alloy wheels give the Velar a commanding stance.
• Despite its sleek silhouette, the Velar maintains an imposing road presence, especially in urban environments.

Rear Design:

• Minimal changes, but the 3D-effect LED taillamps and full-length high-level stop lamps maintain the Velar’s sophisticated appearance.

Overall, the Velar’s design continues to bridge the gap between rugged off-road capability and city chic, making it a visually stunning SUV.

The Velar is offered with two engine options in India, both mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

• Diesel D200: A 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine delivering 201 bhp and 430 Nm of torque. While the power delivery is smooth, it’s more about luxury cruising than spirited driving.
• Petrol P250: The 2.0-liter petrol engine delivers a bit more punch with 247 bhp and faster acceleration, though it consumes more fuel.
• Steering & Ride: The Velar isn’t particularly sporty, with steering that can feel a bit detached. However, the AWD system ensures grip on any surface, while body roll is noticeable in quick maneuvers due to its size.

In terms of performance, the Velar is about comfort and refinement rather than agility, making it a better fit for long-distance cruising rather than corner-carving.

The 2024 Velar excels in ride quality, offering a smooth, composed driving experience.

• Suspension: Equipped with large 20-inch wheels and a well-tuned suspension system, the Velar offers a plush ride, even on rougher roads. The suspension absorbs most imperfections, providing a comfortable experience for both driver and passenger.
• Handling: While the Velar can handle fast corners with confidence, the steering lacks the precise feedback that sportier SUVs offer. Body roll is noticeable in tighter curves, but the AWD system ensures stability in various driving conditions.

The Velar shines on highways and city streets, where its ride comfort truly stands out, but it’s not the first choice for enthusiastic drivers seeking sharp handling

Inside, the Velar boasts a spacious, quiet cabin, with premium materials and a minimalist design that exudes luxury.

• Front Seats: Both front seats come with a massage function (in higher trims), providing comfort after long drives or intercity travel. They are well-bolstered and provide ample support.
• Rear Seats: The rear seats are plush, offer a 60:40 split, and feature a reclining function that can be adjusted with a power switch. Legroom and headroom are generous, though the third middle seat is a bit tight, especially due to the center transmission tunnel.

One downside is the lack of window blinds, which feels like an omission for a luxury vehicle at this price point. Overall, the Velar is perfect for long-distance comfort, with excellent attention to detail inside the cabin.

The 2024 Velar introduces a modern 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system, floating elegantly atop the dashboard.

• Infotainment: The Pivi Pro system is intuitive, offering a user-friendly interface with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to most vehicle functions. The interface reduces glare, and most functions can be accessed within two clicks.
• Sound System: The system also integrates with the car’s noise cancellation feature, providing a quieter cabin, especially on diesel models.

While the Pivi Pro is impressive, some drivers may miss the tactile feedback of physical buttons, particularly when navigating through rough traffic or bumpy roads.

Fuel efficiency is decent for a luxury SUV, but not a strong point:

• Diesel: Offers 11-12 km/l, which is competitive in this segment, particularly for those who frequently drive longer distances.
• Petrol: Delivers around 7-8 km/l, making it less efficient but more fun for spirited drives.

Given its size and weight, these figures are respectable, though frequent urban driving may yield lower efficiency.

The Velar’s cabin is minimalist yet luxurious, with a focus on clean lines and premium materials.

• Design: The capacitive steering controls, floating Pivi Pro screen, and seamless integration of tech create a clean and uncluttered look.
• Space: The interior is surprisingly spacious for a compact luxury SUV, with good storage options and a sizable 748-liter boot that includes a full-sized spare tire.

While the design is sleek, it might feel too minimalist for some buyers who expect more opulence in this price range.

The 2024 Velar is equipped with a host of safety features:

• Airbags: 6 airbags as standard.
• Advanced Safety: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and a range of driver-assistance features that make driving easier and safer.

With an emphasis on both passive and active safety, the Velar ensures peace of mind whether you're driving in the city or on the highway.

With a starting price of ₹94.3 lakh, the Velar is positioned in the middle of the compact luxury SUV segment. While it’s not the cheapest option, it offers:

• Design: Unique, standout design that gives a "mini-Range Rover" feel.
• Technology: Advanced infotainment and noise cancellation.
• Comfort: Excellent ride quality and spacious interior.

While pricier than some competitors, the Velar’s unique charm and blend of luxury make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking something special.

• D200 Diesel: Best for those prioritizing long-distance fuel economy and a quieter drive.
• P250 Petrol: Ideal for buyers who seek a bit more power and are willing to compromise on fuel efficiency.

For most buyers, the D200 Diesel HSE trim offers the best balance between luxury and performance.

The Velar comes with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty, with service plans available through Land Rover dealerships across India.

• Price: ₹94.3 lakh (both petrol and diesel variants).
• Ownership Cost: While the Velar is a high-end luxury SUV, its service network and strong warranty provide peace of mind

The Velar competes with a host of luxury SUVs, including the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, and Jaguar F-Pace.

• BMW X3: Offers a sportier drive, but lacks the Velar’s luxury appeal.
• Mercedes-Benz GLC: Focuses on comfort but is less distinctive in design.
• Audi Q5: Provides a more tech-centric experience but isn’t as refined on the road.
• Jaguar F-Pace: Shares a platform with the Velar, but the Velar offers more understated luxury.

The 2024 Range Rover Velar is a well-rounded luxury SUV that excels in design, comfort, and technology. While it may not be the most exhilarating to drive, its unique style and luxurious features make it a standout in the compact luxury SUV market. For those seeking a refined, luxurious ride with Range Rover’s iconic style, the Velar is a top choice.