The Land Rover Range Rover Sport II, specifically the 3.0 SDV6 variant with 249 horsepower and an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in the Range Rover Sport lineage. Introduced with the 2017 facelift and produced through 2020, this model aimed to balance the luxury and off-road capability expected of the Range Rover brand with improved efficiency and on-road refinement. It occupied a key position in the Range Rover Sport lineup, serving as a popular choice for buyers seeking a powerful yet relatively economical option compared to the supercharged petrol variants or the more potent SDV8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Sport |
| Generation | Range Rover Sport II (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 SDV6 (249 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 31.4 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 37.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 13.3 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) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 276.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 249 Hp |
| Power per litre | 83.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm (442.54 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 | 16.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, 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 | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 780 l (27.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 86 l (22.72 US gal | 18.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4879 mm (192.09 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2073 mm (81.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2220 mm (87.4 in.) |
| Height | 1803 mm (70.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2923 mm (115.08 in.) |
| Front track | 1693 mm (66.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1686 mm (66.38 in.) |
| Front overhang | 879 mm (34.61 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1077 mm (42.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 278 mm (10.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 33.3° |
| Departure angle | 28.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 25.7° |
| Wading depth | 800-850 mm (31.5 – 33.46 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The Range Rover Sport II, launched in 2013 and facelifted in 2017, built upon the success of the original Sport model, offering a more dynamic driving experience while retaining the luxurious appointments and off-road prowess associated with the Range Rover name. The 3.0 SDV6 Automatic variant, introduced with the facelift, was a key volume seller, particularly in European and Asian markets where diesel engines were favored. It slotted into the lineup below the more powerful SDV8 and supercharged petrol models, offering a compelling blend of performance, economy, and refinement. Production of this specific configuration ran from August 2018 to July 2020.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 3.0 SDV6 lies Land Rover’s 306DT engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine utilizes a sequential twin-turbocharger setup, employing a small, low-inertia turbo for immediate response and a larger turbo for sustained power delivery. The engine employs a high-pressure common rail direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 2,000 bar, to optimize fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. The 306DT engine boasts a robust cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. The engine’s 16.1:1 compression ratio is relatively high for a turbocharged diesel, further enhancing efficiency. Paired with this engine is a ZF 8HP70 eight-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is electronically controlled and adapts to driving conditions, optimizing fuel economy and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 249 horsepower and 442.54 lb.-ft. of torque produced by the 3.0 SDV6 provide ample power for everyday driving and confident overtaking. While not as explosively quick as the higher-output variants, the SDV6 delivers a smooth and linear power delivery, making it easy to modulate. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed cruising experience, with well-chosen gear ratios keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.5 seconds. Compared to the manual transmission versions (available in some markets), the automatic offers greater convenience and refinement, although it may slightly diminish overall fuel economy. The SDV6’s torque output allows for effortless towing, making it a practical choice for those with recreational vehicles or trailers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Range Rover Sport II 3.0 SDV6 Automatic typically came well-equipped, even in base trim. Standard features included leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as HSE and Autobiography Dynamic, added features like premium leather, upgraded audio systems (Meridian), adaptive cruise control, panoramic sunroofs, and more advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, heated and cooled seats, and a variety of exterior styling enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Range Rover Sport II utilizes a robust aluminum-intensive chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight for a vehicle of its size. All four corners feature independent air suspension, providing a comfortable ride and the ability to adjust ride height for improved off-road capability. The 3.0 SDV6 models typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic parking brake with hill hold assist is standard. The stability control system is sophisticated, incorporating features like Trailer Stability Assist and Corner Roll Control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0 SDV6 Automatic variant was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, refinement, and fuel economy. Compared to the supercharged petrol models, the SDV6 offered significantly better fuel economy (around 31.4 mpg combined) without sacrificing too much performance. The SDV6 was also considered a more sensible choice than the SDV8 for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in power. Reliability was generally good, although, like all Land Rovers, the air suspension system could be prone to issues over time.
Legacy
The Land Rover Range Rover Sport II 3.0 SDV6 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of luxury, capability, and relatively good fuel economy continues to appeal to buyers. The 306DT engine, while complex, has proven to be reasonably durable when properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential for air suspension issues and ensure that the vehicle has been well-maintained. The 2017 facelifted model, with its updated infotainment system and refined interior, is particularly desirable.
