The Land Rover Range Rover IV (facelift, introduced in 2017) 4.4 SDV8 AWD Automatic represents a pinnacle of luxury and capability within the fourth generation of the iconic Range Rover. Production of this specific variant ran from 2018 through July 2020. Positioned as a high-end offering, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of powerful diesel performance, sophisticated technology, and the Range Rover’s renowned off-road prowess. This model year saw a significant refresh of the fourth-generation Range Rover, incorporating updated styling, enhanced interior features, and improved powertrain refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover |
| Generation | Range Rover IV (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 SDV8 (339 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 (combined) | 9.2-9.3 l/100 km (25.6 – 25.3 US mpg, 30.7 – 30.4 UK mpg, 10.9 – 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 243-246 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h (134.84 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 296.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 339 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 740 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (545.8 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 448DT |
| Engine displacement | 4367 cm3 (266.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98.5 mm (3.88 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.13 l (7.53 US qt | 6.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3290 kg (7253.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 795 kg (1752.67 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) | 211-297 mm (8.31 – 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 | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The 4.4 SDV8 variant of the Range Rover IV facelift represented a sweet spot for many buyers. It offered substantial performance without the outright cost of the supercharged gasoline V8, while providing significantly more power and refinement than the lower-capacity diesel options. Built on the 4×4 platform (often referred to as the L405), this Range Rover benefited from advancements in aluminum construction, reducing weight and improving fuel efficiency compared to its predecessors. The facelift brought a more modern aesthetic, upgraded interior materials, and enhanced infotainment systems.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 4.4 SDV8 lies the 448DT engine, a 4.4-liter turbocharged diesel V8. This engine is a product of Land Rover’s collaboration with PSA Group (now Stellantis). It utilizes a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. The V8 configuration provides inherent smoothness and balance. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a crucial component of this powertrain. Known for its responsiveness and efficiency, the ZF 8HP70 transmission offers seamless gear changes and contributes to the Range Rover’s refined driving experience. The transmission is electronically controlled and adapts to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 339 horsepower and 545.8 lb.-ft. of torque produced by the 4.4 SDV8 deliver strong acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6.9 seconds, making it a surprisingly quick vehicle for its size and weight. The torque curve is broad and flat, providing ample pulling power from low engine speeds. This makes it ideal for towing and effortless highway cruising. Compared to the 3.0-liter SDV6, the 4.4 SDV8 offers a noticeable increase in performance and refinement. While not as overtly sporty as the supercharged gasoline models, the 4.4 SDV8 provides a more relaxed and confident driving experience. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth and timely gear changes. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.4 SDV8 typically came equipped with a high level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat entertainment, adaptive cruise control, and a variety of exterior styling enhancements. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally included HSE and Autobiography models. The Autobiography trim offered the highest level of luxury and customization options.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover IV utilizes an aluminum monocoque chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight for a vehicle of its size. The suspension system is comprised of double-wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, with air suspension as standard. This air suspension provides a remarkably comfortable ride, automatically adjusting ride height and damping characteristics to suit driving conditions. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front discs measure 380mm, while the rear discs are 365mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.4 SDV8 Range Rover was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined ride, luxurious interior, and impressive off-road capability. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance. Compared to the 3.0-liter SDV6, the 4.4 SDV8 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The supercharged gasoline V8 models provided even more performance, but were considerably more expensive and less fuel-efficient. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the air suspension system and electronic components.
Legacy
The 4.4 SDV8 engine has proven to be a relatively robust and reliable powertrain when properly maintained. While complex, the engine is generally considered durable and capable of high mileage. In the used car market, the 4.4 SDV8 Range Rover IV facelift remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for costly repairs, particularly related to the air suspension system and electronic components. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial to ensuring the long-term reliability of this vehicle.
