2020 Range Rover Sport Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Land Rover has long been known for producing world-class luxury vehicles. If you’re seeking versatility, check out the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport. Not only can the new Range Rover Sport accelerate like a sports car, but it’s also rugged enough to deliver a dominant off-road performance. A ton of premium features and spacious accommodations also make this midsize SUV appealing. Let's find out what separates the new Range Rover Sport from every other luxury SUV.

What’s New for 2020?

This year, every trim receives Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for no extra cost. Furthermore, Land Rover has bolstered the Range Rover Sport lineup by introducing a new hybrid powertrain. A couple of new paint colors and a new set of 22-inch black wheels have arrived as well. 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport – The Pros

1. More Efficient Powertrain Options

Luxury SUVs typically don’t make fuel efficiency a big priority. However, Land Rover has helped solve this issue by offering the Range Rover Sport with a pair of new hybrid powertrains. Although the hybrid-powered model’s official EPA fuel economy rating isn’t currently available, you can look forward to saving a few dollars at the pump. The plug-in hybrid version also benefits from a 31-mpg electric driving range. Total output stands at a healthy 398 horsepower.

2. Standard Powertrain Satisfies Most People

Although high-performance versions of the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport are available, most drivers will be pleased with the standard powertrain. It uses a turbocharged inline-six engine, which kicks out 355 ponies and 365 lb-ft of torque. When you step on the accelerator, the SUV gets moving without any delay. You can reach 60 mph in around 6.8 seconds. Drivers can also use the Range Rover Sport to tow more than 7,700 pounds.

3. Electrifying SVR Model

All models in the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport lineup feel strong. Nevertheless, serious driving enthusiasts will desire the ultra-powerful SVR model. Under its hood rests a supercharged V8 engine, which dazzles drivers with 575 horsepower. With a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, the Range Rover Sport SVR can accelerate like a full-blown muscle car. It also offers sensational handling for a heavy SUV. Land Rover equips the SVR model with a sports-calibrated suspension and optional performance tires.

4. Several Innovative Off-Road Features

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport lives up to its reputation for being an adventurous SUV. It can handle extreme terrain with ease. While the Range Rover Sport’s standard 4WD system is a big asset, there are some other great off-road features available. If you plan to travel through streams and rivers, opt for the Wade Sensing system. This feature will warn you when the water level is too high. You can also get the Range Rover Sport with an Off-Road Pack, which adds technologies that help you to tackle various different types of terrain.

5. Traditional Land Rover Styling

A few years ago, Land Rover updated this SUV’s exterior styling. However, it still features many of Land Rover’s classic design cues. You’ll immediately recognize its signature shape. Nevertheless, the new Range Rover Sport does come equipped with modern touches like LED headlights. An available black contrast roof makes the Range Rover Sport look especially cool. You also have access to several different wheel designs. When checking out the SUV’s available paint colors, buyers have a whopping 31 options to choose from.

6. Family-Sized Cabin

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is made for drivers who have a family. While the standard model accommodates five people, an optional third row allows a couple more kids to climb inside. Passengers sitting in the second row will have the most space to spread out. For buyers who desire more relaxation on the road, Land Rover offers premium options like quad-zone climate control and front-seat massage functions. There’s also 27.5 cubic feet of storage space in the back.

7. Well-Equipped Base SE Model

You may find the upper trims to be too costly. Despite being the lowest-priced model in the lineup, the base SE model doesn’t sacrifice much luxury. When you step inside of its leather-trimmed interior, expect to be impressed by its posh feel. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now being standard, this trim has become even more attractive. When traveling, your family will also enjoy the SUV’s Wi-Fi hotspot. Other standard equipment includes satellite radio, parking sensors, and navigation.

8. Thoughtful Safety Technologies

Every new 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport comes equipped with active safety features. Low-speed panic braking and lane-keep assist are standard. There are also some intriguing safety technologies on this SUV’s list of options. If you have any small children, consider getting the Clear Exit Monitoring system. It’ll make sure kids don’t open their doors into oncoming traffic. Meanwhile, Land Rover’s available blind-spot monitoring system can prevent you from unintentionally cutting off another driver.

9. Rear Seat Entertainment

An optional rear entertainment system makes road trips more fun for kids. It features two HD touchscreens, which are mounted on the rear of the front headrests. They can stay busy playing video games and streaming their favorite movies. Because wireless headphones are included, you don’t have to worry about being interrupted.

10. Features That Give You Easy Access to Information

While you’re on the road, you can’t use your cellphone. To make it easy for drivers to access information, Land Rover equips the Range Rover Sport with an Interactive Driver Display. This digital gauge cluster essentially functions as a second infotainment screen. You can control it using the steering wheel’s touch-sensitive controls. The optional head-up display will also make your driving experience more fulfilling.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport – The Cons

1. Expensive Purchase

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a premium vehicle. This means it demands a premium price. Even the base model approaches $70,000. Meanwhile, expect the high-performance SVR model to soar past the $100,000 mark. You must also factor in the Range Rover Sport’s maintenance costs. Some people will ultimately need to search for a less expensive option.

2. Below-Average Dependability

Unfortunately, Land Rover does not have a good history of making reliable vehicles. The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is not the most dependable luxury vehicle. It has a track record of needing repairs after the original warranty expires. Replacement parts are quite expensive. This translates to more money being spent by the owner. If you’re concerned about Range Rover Sport’s expensive cost of upkeep, consider the Lexus LX 570. Expect the Toyota-built LX 570 to offer bulletproof dependability.

3. Overly Complicated Infotainment System

In order to easily use the Range Rover Sport’s infotainment system, you’ll likely need a bit of practice. BMW’s iDrive interface and Audi’s MMI system are a bit more user-friendly. This interface also tends to be a bit slow. Drivers often are forced to wait at least a few seconds before the system reacts.

4. Available Third Row is on the Small Side

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offers an optional third row. It’s beneficial for drivers who have more than two kids. However, riding in the third row is not a pleasant experience for most grownups. The legroom will be tight. Folks in need of a bigger family vehicle should check out the larger Range Rover, which offers an extended-wheelbase model.

5. Some Models Are Not Very Fuel-Efficient

When shopping for a new Range Rover Sport, you will have a few economical powertrains to choose from. The diesel and hybrid powertrains are especially efficient. However, some of the models will quickly use up a tank of gas. They are definitely not great for drivers who spend most of their time in the city. The high-performance SVR model returns only 15 mpg around town.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

2020 BMW X5

The 2020 BMW X5 is a fine automobile. Critics give the BMW X5 high marks for its stout engine lineup. While the X5 can match the Range Rover Sport’s performance on the street, it loses ground when traveling off-road. BMW doesn’t design the X5 with water-forging capabilities.

2020 Lexus LX 570

Expect the 2020 Lexus LX 570 to offer class-leading reliability. It’s also rugged like the Range Rover Sport. However, don’t expect it to offer as much luxury. You can’t get the LX 570 with premium upgrades like massaging front-seat functions or a self-parking system. The LX 570’s truck-like ride may also turn away some luxury car buyers.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

There’s much to like about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE. Its elegant interior and easy-to-use features will impress a lot of people. While the GLE also offers some powerful engines, it cannot match the Range Rover Sport’s off-road performance. This is a big factor for drivers who regularly travel on extremely challenging terrain.

Conclusion

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is an awesome SUV for adventure lovers. Its wide range of off-road features enables you to confidently explore the backcountry. This SUV can also deliver plenty of fun on the road. While the high-performance SVR is pricey, it ranks among the most entertaining models in the world. Furthermore, your family and friends will enjoy the Range Rover Sport's endless number of creature comforts.

While the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a cool luxury vehicle, it’s not the most reliable model in the segment. After your warranty runs out, you’ll have to pay an experienced repair shop to fix any problems. Maintenance is another one of the Range Rover Sport’s biggest expenses.