The Land Rover Range Rover Velar, introduced for the 2018 model year, quickly established itself as a stylish and technologically advanced mid-size luxury SUV. The 2020 facelift brought significant updates, including enhanced interior features and powertrain refinements. The 3.0 P340 variant, produced from September 2020 to February 2023, represents a compelling blend of performance and efficiency within the Velar lineup. This model utilizes a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild hybrid technology, paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It occupied a mid-to-upper position in the Velar range, offering a step up in power and refinement compared to the four-cylinder options, while remaining more accessible than the flagship P500 model.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Velar |
| Generation | Range Rover Velar (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 P340 (340 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2020 |
| End of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.0 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 238.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Ingenium / AJ20P6 |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83.01 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.28 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 748 l (26.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1811 l (63.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 4797 mm (188.86 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2041 mm (80.35 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2147 mm (84.53 in.) |
| Height | 1678-1683 mm (66.06 – 66.26 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.) |
| Front overhang | 834 mm (32.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1089 mm (42.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205-251 mm (8.07 – 9.88 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.94 m (39.17 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 22.5-27.5° |
| Departure angle | 24.8-29.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.3-23.5° |
| Wading depth | 530-580 mm (20.87 – 22.83 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front wheels engaged as needed |
| 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, 370 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 325 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 3.0 P340 lies Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family, specifically the AJ20P6 inline-six. This engine benefits from a mild hybrid system, incorporating a 48-volt electrical architecture and a belt-integrated starter generator (BiSG). The BiSG allows for smoother start-stop operation, regenerative braking to recoup energy, and a small boost in power during acceleration. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver 340 horsepower and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a staple in the luxury SUV segment, known for its smooth shifts and responsive performance. It’s calibrated to provide a balance between fuel efficiency and spirited driving, with adaptive shift patterns based on driving style and terrain.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 P340 Velar offers a refined and capable driving experience. The mild hybrid system effectively mitigates turbo lag, providing a readily available surge of torque from low engine speeds. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 6.0 seconds, making it adequately quick for most driving situations. Compared to the 2.0-liter four-cylinder models, the inline-six provides a noticeable increase in power and smoothness. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the Velar prioritizes comfort and composure. The automatic transmission generally selects the appropriate gear for the situation, although occasional downshifts may be required for more aggressive maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, enhancing stability and confidence.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 P340 Velar typically came well-equipped as standard. Key features included leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included premium audio systems, configurable ambient lighting, and a head-up display. Trim levels beyond the base P340 often added cosmetic enhancements, such as unique exterior styling packages and upgraded interior materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Velar’s chassis is built around an aluminum-intensive architecture, contributing to its relatively low weight. The suspension consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and controlled handling. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, with larger discs at the front to handle the increased stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system works in conjunction with the all-wheel-drive system to maintain stability and prevent loss of control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2020 facelifted Velar, and the 3.0 P340 variant specifically, received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. Praise was directed towards its stylish design, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. The mild hybrid system was lauded for improving fuel economy and reducing emissions without sacrificing performance. Compared to the four-cylinder Velar models, the P340 offered a significant upgrade in power and refinement, justifying the higher price tag for buyers prioritizing performance. However, some critics noted that the infotainment system could be complex to navigate and that the rear seat space was somewhat limited compared to some competitors.
Legacy
The Land Rover Ingenium engine family has proven to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance is crucial. The mild hybrid system adds a layer of complexity, but early reports suggest it has been durable. As the 3.0 P340 Velar enters the used car market, it represents a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV. Regular servicing, including oil changes and inspections of the hybrid system components, is essential to ensure long-term reliability. The Velar’s distinctive design and advanced technology continue to make it a desirable choice in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.
