The Land Rover Range Rover Velar D300, produced from 2017 to 2020, represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and capability within the Velar model range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the D300 utilized a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It aimed to deliver a refined driving experience with strong torque and respectable fuel economy, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and sophisticated SUV. The Velar itself, launched as a fourth model in the Range Rover family, filled the gap between the Evoque and the Range Rover Sport, emphasizing design and technology alongside traditional Land Rover off-road prowess. This variant played a significant role in establishing the Velar’s presence in the premium SUV segment, particularly in European and international markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Velar |
| Type (Engine) | D 300 3.0 V6 (300 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 241 km/h (149.75 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1500 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 | 1959 kg (4318.86 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 (8%) | 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) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Velar D300 is the 306DT, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine. This engine, part of Jaguar Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family, features a cast aluminum block and cylinder head. It employs a sophisticated diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The DOHC valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to the engine’s breathing efficiency. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is crucial for balancing performance and fuel economy, offering both responsive acceleration and relaxed cruising. The transmission is programmed for comfort and efficiency, with adaptive shift patterns based on driving style and conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The D300’s 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm, provides strong and readily accessible power. This translates to effortless acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities. While not as overtly sporty as some of the higher-powered Velar variants, the D300 delivers a composed and refined driving experience. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to this, providing smooth gear changes and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the petrol-powered Velars, the D300 offers superior fuel economy and a more relaxed driving style. Against the more powerful V6 petrol versions, the D300 sacrifices some outright speed but gains in low-end grunt and efficiency. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, enhancing both on-road stability and off-road capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D300 trim typically included a high level of standard equipment. This generally encompassed leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a rearview camera, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (Meridian), adaptive cruise control, and various cosmetic enhancements. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin. The Velar’s interior design prioritized minimalism and technology, with a focus on creating a luxurious and comfortable environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Velar’s chassis is built around an aluminum-intensive monocoque construction, contributing to its relatively low weight. The D300 variant featured double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system, along with ABS and traction control, further enhances safety and stability. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, but still provided a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Range Rover Velar D300 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 strong torque and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers pointed out that the infotainment system could be complex to use and that the rear visibility was somewhat limited. Compared to competitors like the Porsche Macan and BMW X3, the Velar D300 offered a unique blend of luxury, off-road capability, and distinctive styling. Its fuel economy was competitive within its class, and its reliability proved to be generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could arise with predominantly short-trip driving.
Legacy
The Land Rover Range Rover Velar D300 remains a desirable used SUV. The Ingenium engine, while requiring regular maintenance (particularly regarding the DPF), has proven to be relatively durable. The eight-speed ZF transmission is also known for its reliability. The Velar’s striking design and luxurious interior continue to appeal to buyers seeking a premium SUV. As with any diesel vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of using high-quality diesel fuel and ensuring regular servicing to maintain optimal performance and prevent potential issues. The D300 variant represents a sweet spot in the Velar lineup, offering a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and luxury.
