The Land Rover Range Rover Sport I 2.7 TDV6, produced from 2005 to 2009, represented a key entry point into the Range Rover Sport lineup. Positioned as a more accessible option within the first generation (2005-2013) of the Sport, it offered the prestige and capability of the Range Rover brand at a lower price point than the supercharged or V8 petrol variants. This model utilized a 2.7-liter turbodiesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system, making it a popular choice in European and other markets where diesel fuel was prevalent. It was built on the same integrated body-frame construction as its larger Range Rover sibling, offering a blend of on-road comfort and off-road prowess.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Sport |
| Generation | Range Rover Sport I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 TDV6 (190 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 265 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1900 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 276DT |
| Engine displacement | 2720 cm3 (165.98 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2455 kg (5412.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3070 kg (6768.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 958 l (33.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2013 l (71.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 84.1 l (22.22 US gal | 18.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4788 mm (188.5 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1983 mm (78.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2170 mm (85.43 in.) |
| Height | 1762-1812 mm (69.37 – 71.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm (108.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172-227 mm (6.77 – 8.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.2-34° |
| Departure angle | 26-29° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20-25° |
| Wading depth | 700 mm (27.56 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 317 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 325 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 10 |
INTRODUCTION
The Range Rover Sport I 2.7 TDV6, launched in 2005, was a crucial model for Land Rover, aiming to broaden the appeal of the Range Rover brand. It slotted below the full-size Range Rover, offering a sportier driving experience and a more accessible price point. The 2.7-liter TDV6 engine, sourced from Jaguar, was a key component of this strategy, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. This variant was particularly popular in Europe and other markets where diesel engines were favored due to their lower running costs and torque characteristics. The Sport shared its platform (the 4×4 platform) with the Discovery 3, but featured a more aggressively styled exterior and a more focused driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.7 TDV6 is the 276DT engine, a 2720cc V6 diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine employs a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to boost power and torque. The valvetrain features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was specifically tuned to work with the characteristics of the diesel engine, providing smooth shifts and efficient power delivery. This transmission featured a torque converter and was fully automatic, with a manual shift mode available for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 horsepower and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 2.7 TDV6 provided adequate performance for the Range Rover Sport, though it wasn’t as brisk as the higher-powered petrol variants. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.1 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 119.92 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other Range Rover Sport models, the automatic prioritized comfort and ease of use over outright performance. The engine’s torque peak at 1900 rpm meant that strong pulling power was available from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for towing and off-road driving. The air suspension provided a comfortable ride on paved roads, while also offering adjustable ride height for improved off-road capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7 TDV6 typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included leather upholstery, climate control, a premium audio system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included satellite navigation, heated seats, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally, the 2.7 TDV6 represented a mid-range offering. It was positioned above the base models but below the supercharged and V8 petrol versions. The interior design was similar to that of the full-size Range Rover, emphasizing luxury and comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover Sport I utilized a robust chassis construction, combining a monocoque body with a ladder-frame subframe. This provided a good balance of strength and refinement. The suspension system featured air springs and adaptive dampers, allowing for adjustable ride height and damping rates. The 2.7 TDV6 models typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering system was a hydraulic rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Range Rover Sport I 2.7 TDV6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and off-road capability. However, some reviewers noted that the 2.7-liter engine could feel underpowered compared to the larger petrol engines, particularly when fully loaded or towing. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 23.5 US mpg. Compared to the 3.2-liter inline-six petrol engine, the 2.7 TDV6 offered significantly better fuel economy and more torque, but slightly slower acceleration. The V8 petrol models provided superior performance but came at a higher price and with increased running costs.
Legacy
The 2.7 TDV6 engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some common issues over time. These include potential problems with the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and the diesel particulate filter (DPF). However, with regular maintenance and preventative servicing, these engines can provide many years of reliable service. In the used car market, the Range Rover Sport I 2.7 TDV6 represents a relatively affordable entry point into Range Rover ownership. It remains a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious and capable SUV with good fuel economy. Its blend of comfort, performance, and off-road ability continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
