The Land Rover Range Rover IV (facelift, introduced in 2017) 3.0 SDV6 249 horsepower all-wheel drive automatic represents a significant iteration of Land Rover’s flagship SUV. Production of this specific configuration ran from August 2018 to July 2020. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the fourth-generation Range Rover lineup (L405 chassis), it balanced performance, fuel efficiency, and luxury features, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and refined SUV experience. This facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced powertrain refinement compared to earlier versions of the L405.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover |
| Generation | Range Rover IV (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 SDV6 (249 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 110.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 266.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 249 Hp @ 3500-4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1500-2250 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 306DT |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.93 l (9.44 US qt | 7.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2253 kg (4967.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 877 kg (1933.45 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 86 l (22.72 US gal | 18.92 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Length | 5000 mm (196.85 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2073 mm (81.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2220 mm (87.4 in.) |
| Height | 1869 mm (73.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2922 mm (115.04 in.) |
| Front track | 1693 mm (66.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 221-297 mm (8.7 – 11.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.7 m (41.67 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25.5-29.7° |
| Departure angle | 24.5-27.6° |
| Ramp-over angle | 21.5-28.2° |
| Wading depth | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc, 349 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 325 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Range Rover variant is the 3.0-liter SDV6 engine, designated as the 306DT. This engine is a V6 diesel, utilizing a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooled, enhancing both power and torque output. The 249 horsepower peak is achieved between 3500 and 4250 rpm, while the substantial 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque is available from a low 1500 rpm, providing strong pulling power. The engine employs four valves per cylinder and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration. Paired with the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 SDV6 automatic Range Rover offers a refined and capable driving experience. The abundant low-end torque makes it effortless to accelerate from a standstill or overtake at highway speeds. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the 8-second 0-60 mph acceleration is more than adequate for most drivers. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing smooth and responsive shifts. Compared to the higher-output SDV8 models, this variant prioritizes fuel economy and relaxed cruising. It also feels less strained during off-road excursions, where the readily available torque is a significant advantage. Compared to the six-speed automatic found in earlier Range Rovers, the ZF eight-speed offers improved refinement and efficiency. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the manual options available in some markets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 SDV6 automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like ABS, traction control, and stability control. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (Meridian), adaptive cruise control, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine/transmission combination sat in the mid-range of the Range Rover lineup, offering a balance of luxury and capability. Higher trims added more premium materials, additional technology, and enhanced exterior styling.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover IV utilizes a robust all-aluminum monocoque chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight despite its size. The suspension system is a sophisticated setup featuring air suspension with electronic dampers. This allows for adjustable ride height and damping rates, providing a comfortable ride on-road and enhanced off-road capability. The front suspension is a double-wishbone design, while the rear utilizes a multi-link setup. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ventilated discs at the front. The braking system is assisted by ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and emergency brake assist (EBA). Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0 SDV6 automatic Range Rover was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and capable all-terrain performance. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a vehicle of its size and weight, although it didn’t match the efficiency of some smaller SUVs. Compared to the more powerful SDV8 models, the SDV6 offered a more affordable entry point into the Range Rover lineup without sacrificing too much in terms of luxury or capability. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported issues with the air suspension system and the electronic components.
Legacy
The 3.0 SDV6 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant in the Range Rover IV. While modern diesel technology has evolved, these engines continue to offer strong performance and reasonable fuel economy. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition, offering a luxurious and capable SUV at a more accessible price point than the higher-spec models. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and servicing of the air suspension system, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The combination of the refined engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable chassis has cemented its place as a popular choice among Range Rover enthusiasts.
