With the financial backing of Indian parent company Tata Motors, British automakers Jaguar and Land Rover now have the freedom to expand their lineups with new models that previously would have been too costly.

Jaguar is reportedly working on a host of new models, including the recently revealed 2010 XJ, an all-new XE roadster, an XF Estate and possible a new sportback model, while Land Rover has the 2012 Range Rover LRX as well as a new version of the LR2 (Freelander).

Since 2007 there have been reports of Land Rover working on a new seven-seat LR2. At 14.8-feet in length, the current LR2 is slightly shorter than many of its rivals, though its interior is still generous thanks to its relatively long wheelbase.

According to latest reports, a brand new version of the LR2 with a seven-seat option was due to surface next year but has since been put on hold as Land Rover focuses on the upcoming LRX and its current fleet. The project, codenamed L486, is still important for Land Rover as the company has ambitious plans for the vehicle. Once it’s eventually launched, Land Rover hopes to achieve more than 70,000 sales annually for the new LR2 family.

(www.motorauthority.com)

Tags: LR2, Land Rover, SUV

The iPhone or the latest Blackberry or Nokia offerings are often taken as the gold standard of mobile phones for most folks. But sometimes you need a phone that just works, even if you dip it in mud, drive over it with your truck, dunk it in water and drop it onto the pavement. That's where Land Rover steps in.

Or at least that's the pitch for the new Land Rover S1 mobile phone. The device is designed to be ultra-rugged for real field use, but how do you measure just how rugged rugged is? “When we started making these handsets, there was no standard for how to test and benchmark rugged phones, so we created our own," said Bob Plaschke, CEO of Sonim Technologies, the company that manufactures the S1 for Land Rover.

"The Land Rover S1 is tested according to our own ‘Rugged Performance Standard’, a specific 12-point test to ensure our phones remain of the highest quality and don’t let you down when you need it most.” Judging by the photos, the torture test is some pretty tough stuff - note the phone strapped to the wheel of the Defender in the photo below.

It's not all about toughness, however, packing a respectable feature set into its rough-and-tumble casing. A 2MP camera, GPS, flashlight, FM radio, 2GB memory slot, mobile Java and Bluetooth complete with a built-in Opera Mini browser for surfing the web.

The phone will be available this month, but only in Go Mobile stores in the UK, priced at £299.99 ($488).




Land Rover S1 Specification
* Fully submersible to a depth of one meter (3.3ft)
* Survives being dropped onto hard surfaces from up to two meters (6.6ft)
* Extra-Loud speakers for use in extremely noisy environments
* Extra-long battery life with over 1500 hours of standby time and 18 hours of talk time
* Durable keyboard mechanics and extra-wide buttons for ease of use
* Keypad buttons tested to over 500,000 pushes
* Completely dust and micro-particle resistant – IP-67 Rated
* Resistant to road shocks and vibrations to over 2000 random vibrations in the 500Hz range
* Operational under temperatures from -20° to 55° C (-4° to 141° F)
* Resistant to extreme pressure up to 400kg (880lb)
* Resistant to punctures at 75kg/cm2 (1,065psi) of pressure.
* Three year unconditional guarantee

Source: www.motorauthority.com

Tags: Mobile phone, Land Rover Cell

I am a big fan of the Defender, the most practical and long-lived model of Land Rover. But now it’s about to be replaced as the carmaker is presently researching the market for a suitable replacement with an eye on the failure of the three-wheelbase model to meet the 2013 rules.

A spokesman for the company said that there is a great enthusiasm inside Land Rover for a successor to the Defender although it is essential to its feasibility to discover exactly who the buyers would be.

The sales of Defender annually reached between 20,000 and 24,000 units in the past, but to compensate for the development cost for a replacement, the new model must hit sales numbers reaching 40,000 cars. Another solution would be to utilize the current Discovery’s T5 chassis/suspension likely to be shelved for the succeeding generation of Discovery and Range Rover Sport models due to weight-cutting measures. Although the chassis already comes in two wheelbase lengths, research must determine that equipping the Defender with the T5 would be economical to manufacture and still comes with the present model’s outstanding load-carrying capabilities. Although they company does not have the solution at present, it intends to find one soon. It might just be the perfect replacement for my ’85 desert stone colored Land Rover 90, the Defender predecessor.

Sourc: 4wheelsnews.com

Tags: Defender, Land Rover, Land Rover Defender, SUV, 4x4

Land Rover is introducing a new armoured version of its multi award-winning Discovery 4x4 vehicle.

The new Discovery Armoured combines Land Rover’s legendary all-terrain capability with discreet, state-of-the-art protection, whilst providing highly versatile and comfortable transportation for five people and a generous 500kg payload.

Benefiting from Land Rover’s extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, including the Range Rover Armoured, the Discovery Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians. “The broad range of capabilities provided by the new Discovery Armoured make it the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations,” says John C Wright, Land Rover’s manager, Government and Direct Sales. “The Discovery has been carefully engineered to help enable occupants to travel across challenging terrains with confidence.”

Ballistic armour
Although virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the Discovery Armoured features ballistic steel armour and glazing which provides B6 level ballistic and blast protection in acc. with European standard EN1522 level FB6. Standard specification includes run-flat tyres, bullet resistant glazing and under-floor shielding. The protection offered was certified by QinetiQ, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation. Detailed engineering changes were made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintained optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass of the armour. Modifications include uprated springs and dampers, larger diameter anti-roll bars, and upgraded front and rear brake callipers.

All-terrain capability
Like the standard Discovery, the armoured version comes equipped with the latest 4x4 technologies to deliver outstanding all-terrain capability. This includes Land Rover's acclaimed Terrain Response™ system, which enables the driver to configure the vehicle's performance to suit virtually any surface from tarmac to the off-road challenges of mud, grass, snow or sand. An advanced 2.7-litre V6 common-rail diesel engine provides effortless and refined power delivery, and is complemented by a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle features independent air suspension at all four corners, for a supple, level ride. The Discovery Armoured offers a commanding elevated driving position, with a flexible seating layout for up to five people. The practicality of the vehicle is also significantly enhanced by the generous 500kg payload.

Comprehensive support
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase, including a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty. A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met. Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme; a dedicated technician can also provide a number of scheduled visits each year, to assist with vehicle familiarisation and servicing.
 
Source: Defense Professionals

Tags: Discovery, Land Rover, Land Rover Discovery, SUV, Armoured, 4x4

Like the new LR4 and classic Range Rover, the Range Rover Sport also gets plenty of upgrades for the 2010 model year. Like the regular RR, the Sport gets the same 5.0L direct-inject V8s from Jaguar in either naturally aspirated or supercharged guise plus a new six-speed automatic transmission. The NA puts out 375 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque while the force fed mill creates 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, the latter good for 5.9-second sprints to 60 mph. The Sport's exterior has also been tweaked with a new two-bar grille centered in the revised front end and new rear tail-lamps nestled above a redesigned rear bumper. The interior has also been redone with higher quality materials and a new steering wheel that includes paddle shifters on the supercharged model. Throw in enough electronic nannies to make even the Queen look like a good driver and you've got an eminently more capable sports SUV than the one it replaces.

The news in short:

• All-new efficient and powerful LR-V8 engines.
• LR-V8 5.0 liter Supercharged 510 bhp and 461 lb/ft torque.
• 5.0-liter V8 naturally aspirated with 375 bhp and 375 lb/ft torque

• Striking exterior design changes create a more stylish and sporting look.
• Redesigned interior bringing new levels of refinement and craftsmanship.
• Steering wheel with paddle-shift gear change on Supercharged model.
• Chassis refinements including active damping, new brakes and updates to the Terrain ResponseTM system, bringing even greater breadth of capability.

Cutting edge technologies including available surround camera system with tow assist, and a high beam assist option.

Tags: Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Land Rover, SUV, Facelift, New York Auto Show

While Land Rover's sales have been hit economically like almostevery other automaker in this economy, it strong-going Range Rover SUV, which still has many fans, and seem to sell despite of the crisis. The Range Rover is the longest-serving model in the company's off-road arsenal to go without a major update. Until now. Say welcome to the new 2010 Range Rover with minor facial changes but several dramatic inside changes.

Not that you can tell from the outside terribly easily, mind. The outgoing model is something of a style icon, so you could forgive LR stylists for not wanting to futz unnecessarily with the styling. Still, changes are substantial yet modest – there are new headlamps, a new grille, a refreshed bumper cap, relocated fog lamps, and a triple theme to the sides and rear of the vehicle that includes three-section fender vents, 'three-stripe' LED side indicators, and new LED taillamps that incorporate the same 'three-stripe' motif.


The Virtual gauge cluster utilizes a 12-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen

Inside, the changes are more dramatic, punctuated by a new virtual gauge cluster that utilizes a 12-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen in place of traditional analog needle instruments – Current Mercedes S-Class owners enjoy a similar setup. Other interior adjustments include a raft of new switchgear, a revamped steering wheel with new multi-directional thumbpads, a new leather headliner and a much-needed upgrade to the navigation system. The new GPS system is hard-drive based touchscreen setup that also includes enhanced USB connectivity and a dedicated iPod port.

The news:

• All-new efficient and powerful LR-V8 engines
• 5.0-liter V8 supercharged 510 bhp and 461 lb/ft torque
• 5.0-liter V8 naturally aspirated
• 375 bhp and 375 lb/ft torque
• Subtle exterior design changes enhance the classic Range Rover design with contemporary details
• Upgraded interior, featuring physical instrument cluster replaced by 12" Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen with 'virtual' dials and information displays
• State-of-the-art Adaptive Dynamics technology to further improve the Range Rover's peerless ride quality
• New brakes for all engine derivatives
• Updated Terrain Response™ and Dynamic Stability Control System for all-terrain performance
• Active safety aids including Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Brake Assist, available Blind Spot Monitoring and Surround Camera system

Tags: Land Rover Range Rover, Range Rover, SUV, Facelift, New York Auto Show

On the eve of the New York Auto Show, Land Rover has released all the details on its new 2010 LR4. The new LR4 (the SUV formerly-known-as LR3) is packing a thoroughly revised, direct-injected 5.0-liter V8 sourced from Jaguar putting 375 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. Land Rover has updated its Terrain Response system to deliver five different settings to suit the terrain, ranging from a normal driving mode to the infamous "Rock Crawl" setting.

A new front end with revised headlamps and fascia joins a restyled rump with LEDs, while an all-new interior provides ample accommodations for five or seven passengers, depending on spec. A Surround Camera system joins keyless entry, push-button start, gradient release control and tow assist (max. towing is 7,716 pounds) to make jaunts to Grandma's through the snowy climes a breeze. A revised suspension architecture, improved steering and larger brakes (14.2-inch discs in front and 13.8-inch rotors in the rear) round out the major modifications.

The news:

• Refined, efficient and powerful new LR-V8 5.0L direct injection engine
• Impressive 375 lb/ft torque and 375 bhp
• ULEV2 compliant
• On-road dynamics transformed by comprehensive chassis system developments and a new super-smooth 6-speed adaptive transmission
• Updates to Land Rover's award-winning Terrain ResponseTM system reinforce class-leading all-terrain performance
• Fresh exterior design includes smoother new front end and revised lights, including LEDs
• All-new interior design delivers a more premium and functional five and optional seven-seat space
• User-friendly new features include available Surround Camera system, Gradient Release Control, Tow Assist, available Automatic High Beam Assist, and Keyless Entry, Push Button start.
• The new, fourth generation of Land Rover's supremely versatile SUV gains a new name – Land Rover LR4 – to go with its powerful and highly efficient new LR-V8 engine, fresh exterior identity and more premium cabin. The class-leading breadth of capability is extended even further with dynamic improvements for both on-road and off-road driving, and Land Rover has added a battery of user-friendly new technologies and features.

Tags: Discovery, LR4, Land Rover, Land Rover Discovery, Facelift, SUV, New York Auto Show

Land Rover's Range Rover Sport is very popular among celebrity and pop-culture icons, but with the modifications that Tiret New York and LSE Design have managed, the Tiret Coupe takes the vehicle to another level. Wider flared arches, LED lighting, 22in LSE alloy wheels and a full panoramic glass sunroof are just a few of the key changes that make up the Tiret Coupe transformation. Tapping the company's past work with timepieces and jewelry with the likes of Damon Dash, the Tiret Coupe gets special diamond dials and the unique ‘Tiret clock’. Inside, the Tiret Coupe also gets Nappa leather seating, fine wood trim and real diamond accents throughout the cabin.

Opulent is an understatement. Unveiled this week at the Baselworld 2009 show in Basel, Switzerland, the vehicle is now available for ordering - by appointment only.

Welcome to the Tiret Coupe Range Rover

Tags: Land Rover Range Rover, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Tiret Coupe Range Rover

SpyShot from motorauthority.com

Land Rover’s third-generation Range Rover was first introduced in 2002 and was updated in 2005 with some minor styling revisions as well as a range of new V8 engines sourced from Jaguar. The luxury SUV is set to undergo another minor update, with a camouflaged prototype caught testing once again near Land Rover’s headquarters in the UK.

The updated model is expected to go on sale in the second half of the year as a 2010 model but with a brand new Range Rover due in 2011 the changes planned for this latest facelift will be minimal. These will include a new grille and bumper design, as well as new headlights and a slightly revamped interior.

Read more and see the gallery of spy shots at motorauthority.com

Tags: Range Rover, Land Rover Range Rover, SUV, Spy shot

Is it it aesthetic? - with a new bodykit and special 22in RS-L alloy wheels - you decide!

Afzal Kahn, owner of the eponymous 'Project Kahn' outfit, has unveiled his latest creation in what has come to be a long line of customized luxury vehicles. This time around the Project Kahn team has taken the relatively sober Range Rover Vogue SUV and tinkered with its appearance and handling slightly. The Project Kahn Range Rover Vogue conversion consists of a new bodykit, color-coded paint scheme and a custom sports exhaust system. The interior is given the bespoke touch, with an exquisite piano black trim made to the exact requirements of the customer. The vehicle also features specially designed 22in ‘RS-L’ alloy wheels.

See more at the Kahn Design website.

Tags: Facelift, Range Rover, Project Kahn, Kahn Design

Prototypes for Land Rover’s facelifted Range Rover Sport have been spotted again, this time undergoing cold weather testing in Northern Europe. The performance SUV already received a series of upgrades in 2007, including the introduction of a 3.6L twin turbo diesel V8, so for its next update the list of changes have been kept to a minimum.

The facelifted SUV is due to hit the streets by the middle of this year and is likely to be available with the existing 3.6L diesel as well as a new 5.0L V8 engine. This is the same unit that recently debuted in the all-new Jaguar XFR, although the Range Rover Sport will likely miss out on the supercharger as well as the 510hp (380kW) output.

Another possibility is the introduction of a V6 twin-turbo diesel, likely to be the new 3.0L unit used by Jaguar for its XF Diesel S. The commonrail turbodiesel V6 engine is rated at 271hp (202kW) and 443lb-ft (600Nm) of torque.

In addition to the engine upgrade, the new Sport will also receive a slightly revised face including a new grille design that’s reminiscent of the Land Rover Freelander/LR2 as well as a new front bumper. The side vents will also feature a slightly different design to the ports on the current model, and the headlights will be updated as well.

See a full gallery on motorauthority.com

Tags: Range Rover, News, Facelift, Range Rover Sport

A faceliftet Land Rover Discovery has been spotted during testruns in Sweden. Its said that the LR3 will be in the showrooms some time early next year. Pictures are courtesy of caradvice.com.au!

We will se the visual changes mainly will on the front end, with minor revisions awaited for the interior as well. At the front, these shots reveal a new grille with modified cross bars as well as new headlamps reminiscent of the Range Rover facelift.

The tail lamps are now equipped with new LED technology while new wing mirrors and sills complete the visual modifications.

Early reports suggest that Land Rover’s new 5.0-litre V8 engine will also find its way under the bonnet of the new Disco.

Source: caradvice.com.au

Tags: Motor, News, Discovery, LR3

As the official vehicle sponsor, Land Rover will be showcasing the new Range Rover Sport 'Stormer Edition' together with the latest line-up of vehicles at The London International Boat Show. The Range Rover Sport 'Stormer Edition' is based on the entry-level Range Rover Sport TDV6 'S' but comes with additional features... including 20 inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, tail-mounted rear spoiler, deep sculptured front and rear bumpers, integrated rectangular exhaust pipes, body-coloured lower body side mouldings and lower tailgate moulding, leather seats, front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) and Personal Telephone Integration.

Available in a choice of three colours - Santorini Black, Alaska White and Stornoway Grey - only 300 Range Rover Sport 'Stormer Editions' will go on sale in the UK from March, priced at £43,550 on the road.

John Edwards, Land Rover UK managing director commented: "With a host of exterior and interior additions the Range Rover Sport 'Stormer Edition' offers a value for money alternative for customers wishing to own a Range Rover Sport with the visual impact of the HST but at a lower price."Mr Edwards continues, "What better place to launch this than at the prestigious London International Boat Show which we have sponsored since 2006. All of our products including the 'Stormer Edition' have excellent towing capacity and a unique breadth of capability making them the vehicle of choice for those who enjoy an active lifestyle such as boating."


Range Rover Sport 'Stormer Edition'

Source: Carpages

Tags: News, Range Rover

JE Engineering has officially launched their new ZULU Supercharged Defender, which is powered by a JE tuned Supercharged 4.2-liter Jaguar/LandRover petrol V8! The engine has been tuned to deliver 460hp and up-rated AP Racing ceramic discs are also included as well as a new manual or automatic transmission. The driveline and suspension have also been given the JE off-road racing treatment.



JE Engineering has officially launched their new ZULU Supercharged Defender, which is powered by a JE tuned Supercharged 4.2-liter Jaguar/LandRover petrol V8! The engine has been tuned to deliver 460hp and up-rated AP Racing ceramic discs are also included as well as a new manual or automatic transmission. The driveline and suspension have also been given the JE off-road racing treatment. You can view more photos and read the official press release below.

Press Release:

JE Engineering Ltd. bucks the trend and takes on the Doom-and-Gloom merchants by announcing the "JE Zulu" SuperDefender!

While the rest of the UK motor industry reels under the cosh of global financial implosion and Government dithering, JE Engineering, the Coventry-based Land Rover specialists have launched their latest outrageous creation, the 460bhp supercharged "Zulu," based on the trusty old Defender! With up-rated suspension, huge AP Racing disc brakes and NASCAR-proof transmission to complement the awesome power, the "Zulu" is like no other Defender you ever saw driving out of Lode Lane! Madness? Not really, as Colin Musgrove, Head of Communications at JE explains:

"The technical ingenuity and craftsmanship of the English Midlands is legendary. For over 30 years JE have flown the flag for that heritage in Coventry, the cradle of the British Motor Industry. The "Zulu" illustrates what we can do to promote British Motor Engineering, even in the face of world recession. Yes, the Supercharged "Zulu" is outrageous! Yes, they are intended primarily as extreme fun vehicles to draw attention to the fact that JE and others like us can and will continue to keep alive the proud traditions of British engineering. However, the "Zulu" is the precursor of diesel and hybrid versions which are intended for fast-response vehicles in extreme terrain. So you see, the "Zulu" has a great deal of method in its madness!"

Contact Colin or any of the JE sales and engineering team for more details, or even a drive! 






Source: JE Engineering

Tags: Motor, Tuning, Defender, News

As a result of the world wide financial crisis, Land Rover has cancelled the G4 Challenge, which was suposed to be a fund generating activity for charity, mainly for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The aim was to generate approx. £1 million ($1.49 mill.) over the course of two programs.

When asked why the program was being abandoned, the managing director of Land Rover stated that "given the severity of the global economic downturn and trading conditions, we need to make some tough decisions and that means prioritizing our budgets on new product launches. We are disappointed for the competitors who have shown so much commitment and put tremendous effort into succeeding as representatives of their nation. We have and will continue to take swift and decisive actions for the benefit of the business; unfortunately that means the Land Rover G4 Challenge has to come to an early close."

The program was to take competitors through 18 countries and be an "ultimate test of team spirit and physical fitness". The entire Land Rover fleet was supposed to be involved, with the Range Rover Sport, Freelander 2 and Discovery 3 all earmarked for duty.

Tags: Discovery, Range Rover Sport, News, Freelander, G4 Challenge, Endurance Rally