Available initially on a special edition HST model, the all-new 3.0-litre, 396bhp, 405lbs ft Ingenium engine is not just more responsive and better balanced than the previous V6 petrol (and even the company’s predilection for V8s) but it despatches the 0-60mph blast in 5.9 seconds, before maxing-out at 140mph. Electrically supercharged, rather than turbocharged, throttle responses are instant.
Supported by a twin-scroll blower and Continuous Variable Valve Lift technology, which together boost power and help the engine to breathe more efficiently, the design of the all-new six-cylinder engine optimises performance and fuel economy (up to 30.5mpg) as well as reducing emissions (213g/km) with tremendous poise and refinement. Its concession to ‘electrification’, which the company had promised but has taken a long time to achieve it, is the use of Mild Hybrid technology.
An intelligent system, it is based around an all-new Start:Stop device that switches off when stationary and pairs the latest engine with an electric motor. It allows the system to harvest energy through regenerative braking and store it in a 48V battery for subsequent use, such as when pulling away from a standing start. Designed and developed in-house by JLR, the latest six-cylinder Ingenium engine is being manufactured at the £1bn Engine Manufacturing Centre, in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, alongside the current four-cylinder petrol and diesel units.
In-line six-cylinder engines are inherently better balanced than V6 alternatives, which were chosen for their compact dimensions. Inevitably, JLR’s new Ingenium unit builds on a stated promise to optimise efficiency in all operating conditions and will soon find a home beneath the bonnets of other Land Rover and Jaguar motorcars. Perhaps, had the company introduced this engine earlier, it might have stemmed the downturn in its Chinese market sector. It can only be hoped that it is a recoverable position.
While ramping-up production of the new inline-6 petrol engine, JLR has decided to introduce it on the special edition Range Rover Sport HST model, which features an unique combination of interior and exterior upgrades that include bespoke badging and carbon fibre trim on the bonnet, front grille, side vents and tailgate. Buyers will also have a choice of two alloy wheel designs and five exterior colours – Santorini Black, Fuji White, Indus Silver, Firenze Red and Carpathian Grey. The HST is identifiable by its red brake callipers that provide superb stopping power. Riding on air suspension with adjustable dampers, the car’s handling is crisp and precise.
Inside, the 16-way Dynamic front seats feature an updated colour pattern, with suedecloth detailing on the steering wheel and gear lever, satin chrome shift paddles and an HST badged facia. In addition, the available suite of safety enhancements includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Stop:Go and Steering Assist, alongside high-speed emergency braking. Owners also benefit from traditional off-road features, such as Terrain Response 2.
