The Land Rover Range Rover Velar D 275, produced from 2018 to 2020, represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and capability within the Velar model range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the entry-level diesel variants and the higher-performance gasoline options. This variant utilized a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Land Rover’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The Velar, launched as a fourth model in the Range Rover family, aimed to fill the gap between the Evoque and the Range Rover Sport, offering a more stylish and technologically advanced alternative in the premium mid-size SUV segment. It was built on the iQ[+] platform, shared with the Jaguar F-Pace, and quickly gained recognition for its minimalist interior design and striking exterior aesthetics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Velar |
| Type (Engine) | D 275 3.0 V6 (275 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 241 km/h (149.75 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 275 Hp @ 3500-4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 625 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (460.98 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 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 | 16.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2029 kg (4473.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 673 l (23.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1731 l (61.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4803 mm (189.09 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2145 mm (84.45 in.) |
| Height | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1640-1644 mm (64.57 – 64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1657-1663 mm (65.24 – 65.47 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213-251 mm (8.39 – 9.88 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25.93-28.89° |
| Departure angle | 27.3-29.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21-23.5° |
| Wading depth | 600-650 mm (23.62 – 25.59 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Velar D 275 is Land Rover’s 306DT engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine utilizes a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a crucial component of this powertrain. Known for its smooth and responsive shifts, it contributes significantly to both performance and fuel economy. The transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing for both strong acceleration and relaxed cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The Velar D 275 offers a refined and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its gasoline-powered siblings, the diesel engine delivers ample torque – 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) – from low engine speeds, providing strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The 0-60 mph time of around 6.7 seconds is respectable for a vehicle of this size and weight. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to a seamless power delivery, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions. Compared to the higher-output gasoline engines, the D 275 prioritizes fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising over outright performance. The manual transmission was not offered in this configuration, focusing on ease of use and comfort for the target demographic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D 275 trim typically included a generous array of standard features. These included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a rearview camera, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, adaptive cruise control, and various cosmetic enhancements. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The Velar’s minimalist interior design, with its clean lines and hidden-until-needed controls, was a defining characteristic of the model.
Chassis & Braking
The Velar’s chassis is designed to balance on-road comfort with off-road capability. It features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The D 275 variant typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. The electronic stability control system, coupled with the all-wheel-drive system, enhances handling and safety. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, although it still offered a reasonable level of body control in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Range Rover Velar D 275 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. The diesel engine was noted for its fuel efficiency and strong torque output. Compared to the gasoline-powered Velar variants, the D 275 offered better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine lacked the responsiveness and excitement of the gasoline engines. Against competitors such as the Porsche Macan and the BMW X3, the Velar D 275 offered a unique blend of luxury, capability, and style.
Legacy
The Land Rover Range Rover Velar D 275 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, although, like all modern vehicles, it is not without its potential issues. Common concerns include issues with the air suspension system and the infotainment system. However, the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine has generally proven to be durable and long-lasting, provided it is properly maintained. On the used car market, the Velar D 275 remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV with good fuel economy. Its striking design and refined driving experience continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
