The Land Rover Range Rover Sport III 3.0 D250, launched in May 2022, represents a key offering within the third-generation Range Rover Sport (L461) lineup. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it balances performance, efficiency, and luxury, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated SUV experience without the top-tier price tag. This model incorporates a mild hybrid system, enhancing fuel economy and reducing emissions while maintaining the Range Rover Sport’s renowned capability. It’s a significant evolution of the Range Rover Sport formula, building upon the success of previous generations and incorporating the latest Land Rover technologies.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Sport |
| Generation | Range Rover Sport III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 D250 (249 Hp) Mild Hybrid iAWD Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 10.8-12.3 l/100 km (21.8 – 19.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 7.7-8.1 l/100 km (30.5 – 29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.9-6.4 l/100 km (39.9 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.2-7.9 l/100 km (32.7 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.4-8.1 l/100 km (31.8 – 29 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 194-211 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Power | 249 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1250-2250 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1250-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Ingenium / DT306 |
| Engine displacement | 2997 cm3 (182.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.31 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3220 kg (7098.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 905 kg (1995.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1860 l (65.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 20 l (5.28 US gal | 4.4 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 | 4946 mm (194.72 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2043 mm (80.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2209 mm (86.97 in.) |
| Height | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2997 mm (117.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1704 mm (67.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 281 mm (11.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.53 m (41.11 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 33° |
| Departure angle | 30° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 26.9° |
| Wading depth | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission ZF |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 355 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Range Rover Sport D250 is Land Rover’s Ingenium 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine, designated DT306. This engine benefits from a mild hybrid (MHEV) system, utilizing a 48V electric motor to assist the engine during acceleration and enable smoother start-stop operation. The engine employs a sophisticated diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine produces 249 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442.54 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1250 and 2250 rpm. This broad torque band is a key characteristic of the Ingenium engine, providing strong pulling power across a wide range of driving conditions. The engine features a high compression ratio of 15.5:1 and 4 valves per cylinder. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic gearbox sourced from ZF, known for its smooth shifting and responsiveness. This transmission is specifically calibrated to work in harmony with the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The D250 variant offers a refined and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as higher-powered Range Rover Sport models, the 249 hp and 600 Nm of torque provide ample performance for everyday driving and long-distance cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 7.5 seconds, and the engine feels strong and responsive in most situations. The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a comfortable ride. The mild hybrid system helps to fill in any turbo lag, providing a more immediate response from the engine. Compared to the more powerful D300 or D350 models, the D250 prioritizes fuel economy and refinement over outright performance. It’s a more relaxed and composed driving experience, well-suited for drivers who value comfort and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Range Rover Sport D250 typically comes well-equipped as standard. Key features include premium leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard trim often includes LED headlights, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras can include features such as a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. Interior trim options vary, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover Sport III utilizes a lightweight aluminum-intensive chassis, contributing to its overall rigidity and reducing weight. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The D250 variant typically features ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with front discs measuring 380mm and rear discs measuring 355mm. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and other electronic stability control systems. The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in a variety of conditions, and the electronic air suspension (often optional) allows for adjustable ride height and improved off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Range Rover Sport D250 has been well-received by critics and buyers alike. It’s praised for its blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury. Compared to the higher-powered diesel variants, the D250 offers a more affordable entry point into the Range Rover Sport range without sacrificing too much in terms of driving experience. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined WLTP figures ranging from 7.4 to 8.1 l/100 km (31.8 – 29 US mpg). Reliability has been generally good, although as with any complex vehicle, potential owners should be aware of the costs associated with maintaining a luxury SUV.
Legacy
The Ingenium engine family, including the DT306 found in the D250, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While long-term reliability data is still emerging for the third-generation Range Rover Sport, the engine’s robust design and the use of modern technologies suggest it will provide years of dependable service. On the used car market, the D250 variant is likely to hold its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a well-equipped and capable luxury SUV with reasonable running costs. The integration of mild hybrid technology positions this model as a forward-thinking option in the premium SUV segment.
