The Land Rover Range Rover IV (facelift, introduced in 2017) 3.0 SDV6 275 horsepower all-wheel drive automatic represents a significant iteration of Land Rover’s flagship SUV. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2018 through July 2020. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the fourth-generation Range Rover lineup (L405 chassis code), 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 (275 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 30.9 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 37.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.2 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 122.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 277.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 275 Hp @ 3500-4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 625 Nm @ 1500-2250 rpm (460.98 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 (turning diameter) | 12.7 m (41.67 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25.5-29.7° |
| Departure angle | 24.5-27.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) 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 | Ventilated discs, 349 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 325 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Range Rover 3.0 SDV6 is the 306DT engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine is part of Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family, though the 306DT predates the fully modular Ingenium designs. It utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, featuring four valves per cylinder and a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides significant boost, contributing to the engine’s 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a crucial component, known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output and contribute to both performance and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 275 horsepower and 625 Nm of torque delivered by the 3.0 SDV6 automatic powertrain provide a compelling driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.5 seconds, making it adequately quick for a large, luxurious SUV. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering seamless gear changes and responsive performance. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered supercharged gasoline variants, the SDV6 offers ample power for everyday driving and towing. The torque is readily available from low engine speeds, making overtaking maneuvers effortless. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic prioritizes comfort and ease of use, sacrificing some driver engagement. The eight forward gears help to keep engine speeds low during highway cruising, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced noise levels.
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 suite of safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (Meridian), and various interior trim options. The trim level often dictated the availability of these options, with higher trims offering more standard equipment and exclusive features. The SDV6 trim generally sat in the middle of the Range Rover lineup, offering a balance between luxury and value.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover IV utilizes a robust all-aluminum monocoque chassis, contributing to its impressive strength and relatively low weight. The suspension system features air suspension with electronic dampers, providing a comfortable ride and the ability to adjust ride height for off-road capability. The 3.0 SDV6 models typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control systems. The suspension setup is tuned to prioritize ride comfort, but also offers good body control during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Range Rover 3.0 SDV6 automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a vehicle of its size and capability, averaging around 30.9 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the supercharged gasoline variants, the SDV6 offered better fuel economy but less outright performance. Compared to the 4.4-liter SDV8, it provided a more affordable entry point into the Range Rover lineup with a slight compromise in power. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the air suspension system and electronic components.
Legacy
The Land Rover Range Rover IV 3.0 SDV6 automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable powertrain combination. On the used car market, these models remain popular due to their blend of luxury, capability, and fuel efficiency. The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission is particularly well-regarded for its robustness. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for air suspension issues and the cost of maintaining a complex vehicle like the Range Rover. Overall, the 3.0 SDV6 automatic represents a sweet spot in the fourth-generation Range Rover lineup, offering a compelling ownership experience for those seeking a luxurious and capable SUV.
