The Land Rover Range Rover II 2.5 D Automatic, produced from 1994 to 2001, represented a crucial entry point into the second generation of the iconic Range Rover. Positioned as the diesel-powered variant with an automatic transmission, it offered a blend of luxury and capability aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and relaxed long-distance cruising over outright performance. This model sat below the petrol V8 options in the Range Rover II lineup, appealing to a different segment of the market – those needing a capable off-roader but less concerned with rapid acceleration. It was built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, sharing its core chassis and body structure with other Range Rover II models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover |
| Generation | Range Rover II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 D (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg, 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.6 kg/Hp, 64.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 127.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2300 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 25 6T |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.8 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.3 l (11.94 US qt | 9.94 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2115 kg (4662.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2780 kg (6128.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 665 kg (1466.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1640 l (57.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 4713 mm (185.55 in.) |
| Width | 1853 mm (72.95 in.) |
| Height | 1817 mm (71.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm (108.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Range Rover II 2.5 D Automatic is the 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine, designated as the 25 6T. This engine, a descendant of designs originating in the 1980s, utilized a precombustion chamber injection system. This system, common in European diesels of the era, involved injecting fuel into a small pre-chamber within the cylinder head, where it partially combusted before igniting the main charge. This design aided in smoother combustion and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection systems of the time. The engine was turbocharged, boosting power output to 136 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, providing relatively smooth shifts but lacking the efficiency of more modern transmissions. The engine code, 25 6T, is crucial for identifying specific parts and service requirements.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 D Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the petrol-powered Range Rovers. Acceleration was leisurely, taking approximately 15.8 seconds to reach 62 mph. The focus was on relaxed cruising and effortless towing. The automatic transmission, while convenient, contributed to a slight loss of responsiveness compared to the manual versions. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power at lower engine speeds, aiding in overtaking, but the engine lacked the outright punch of the V8 models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and towing capacity rather than sporty performance. In off-road situations, the low-end torque proved beneficial, allowing for controlled climbing and maneuvering over challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 D Automatic typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment, reflecting the Range Rover’s luxury positioning. This included features like power windows, central locking, and air conditioning. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the Range Rover II range, featuring wood trim and a functional layout. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and heated seats. The trim level was generally considered a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the more basic models and the fully-loaded V8 versions.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover II featured a robust chassis and a sophisticated suspension system. The 2.5 D Automatic utilized air suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and the ability to adjust ride height for off-road use. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned to accommodate the vehicle’s weight and the characteristics of the diesel engine, providing a stable and controlled driving experience. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Range Rover II 2.5 D Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient alternative to the petrol models. Fuel economy, averaging around 20.6 US mpg combined, was a significant selling point. However, the leisurely acceleration and lack of sporty handling were often noted. Compared to the V8 versions, the 2.5 D Automatic offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. Against competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Range Rover II offered a more refined interior and a more capable off-road system, but at a higher price point. Reliability was generally good, although the complexity of the air suspension system could lead to occasional issues.
Legacy
The Range Rover II 2.5 D Automatic has become a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors. The 25 6T engine, while not known for its blistering performance, is relatively robust and reliable when properly maintained. Parts availability is generally good, although some components specific to the diesel engine can be harder to find. Today, these vehicles are often sought after for their classic styling, off-road capability, and relatively affordable price. The combination of a diesel engine and automatic transmission makes them particularly appealing to buyers looking for a comfortable and practical classic SUV. Well-maintained examples continue to command respectable prices in the used car market, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the Range Rover II.
