I HAVE to hold my hand up and say that when the Range Rover Sport was first unveiled it came as a slight disappointment to me. Compared with the Range Stormer concept on which it was based it was a little pedestrian to say the least. I was expecting Mad Max but instead this was more Max Factor. Okay, maybe that analogy’s a little unfair but I did feel that the Range Stormer promised much and that what was delivered fell short. But I confess it has grown on me and the latest model has plenty that’s worth shouting about. For 2010 both the Sport and its sister model the Discovery have undergone a pretty serious makeover. Sticking with a cosmetic theme, rather than the customary nip and tuck, both have undergone some fairly major surgery. An all new interior gives the feel of a totally new vehicle and the exterior looks pretty different too with the regulation bumper, light and grille updates. There’s certainly more emphasis on quality with a premium feel that could cut it with the best. My only criticism as far as the Sport is concerned is that sometimes there’s a little too much going on. In its bid to be the Range Rover’s slightly more bad-mannered little brother it seeks to emulate something of the Range Rover’s opulence and while it generally succeeds, the fact that it's a fair bit smaller means it sometimes struggles. From the driver’s seat of a Range Rover there’s an almost mission control meets country club kind of feel. Space and proportion are nothing short of perfection while in the Sport some parts feel just a little to close together. It’s most noticeable when you attempt to strap yourself in and have to navigate the bulk of the centre storage box. As with all upgrades the serious changes are on the mechanical side and best of all is the introduction of a new three-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine. This is about as sweet, smooth, refined and potent that any diesel engine of this size has got thus far and it is perfectly suited to the requirements of the Sport. The old 2.7-litre diesel, good as it was, didn’t quite fit with the ‘Sport’ tag, but performance from this unit is almost on a par with the beefier 3.6-litre V8 and would even give the supercharged petrol V8 a run for its money. Overall this latest model feels exceptionally grown up and composed, its already good road-going capabilities further enhanced by chassis modifications. The software for the active anti-roll bar has been changed, automatic adjusting electronic shocks installed and a roll sensor has been added to the stability-control system. The result is that stability is maximised splendidly, even at speed, and the changes also do much to help maintain the equilibrium of in-cabin comfort. A new variable ratio steering system adds much too, making the Sport a pleasure to drive, particularly on winding roads. While it might not share the sublime luxury of the Range Rover it offers a considerably sharper drive. Amazingly, the Sport is just as capable off road as on it too, taking all manner of terrain in its stride. And given the fact it’s smaller it can even go places where a Range Rover might not fit. Air suspension comes as standard and aids ride quality considerably while all models feature the CommandShift six-speed automatic gearbox. The new surround camera system helps with manoeuvring while some pretty heavy duty brakes have also been added. High-tech features, of which there are plenty, include Land Rover’s Terrain Response system and Hill Descent Control. This reviewer’s opinion apart, it would seem the Sport’s toned down looks did little to dent sales. Land Rover is undoubtedly pleased with the success of a model that effectively bridges the gap between the Discovery and Range Rover, as well as offering something a little different. Though interestingly I am assured that the forthcoming LRX is a virtual carbon copy of the concept car that wowed the automotive world when it was first shown off. FAST FACTSRange Rover Sport 3.0 TD V6 SEPrice: £45,895Mechanical: 245bhp, 2,003cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 6-speed automatic gearboxMax speed: 120mph0-62mph: 8.8 secondsCombined mpg: 30.7Insurance group: 14CO2 emissions: 243g/kmBIK rating: 35%Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimted miles | 
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