LAND ROVER is pumping up the power and cutting the emissions with its 3.0-litre SDV6 diesel engines in the Range Rover Sport.
And while the output of the 245bhp unit has been increased to 256bhp and CO2 emissions reduced from 243g/km to 230g/km, fuel economy has actually been improved from 30.7 to 32.1mpg.
It’s partly down to the arrival of the new ZF 8HP70, 8-speed automatic gearbox in tandem with the company’s 'Drive Select' rotary gear shift and steering wheel-mounted paddle shift. All the latest SDV6 models are also equipped with a diesel particulate filter.
Changes to the Range Rover Sport’s rear tailgate graphics create a distinctive new look boosted by a Gloss Black treatment to the headlight inners and grille surround.
The SE version now sports a Dark Atlas grille, while the HSE and Supercharged get Light Atlas, and the Supercharged model is also now fitted with new 20-inch alloys finished in Sparkle Silver with high-gloss lacquer.
The plush Autobiography Sport gets new interior colours and a powered single piece tailgate has also been introduced across the range for 2012, enabling drivers to set their desired lift height.
For the first time on the Range Rover Sport, the next generation 7-inch touchscreen is available with optional Dual View technology, allowing the driver to view the navigation display whilst the passenger watches TV or a DVD.
Upgrades to the Hi-ICE and Premium sound systems see a whopping 825W of power through 17 speakers on the Premium Harmon Kardon LOGIC 7 and the new ‘Say What You See’ voice command helps the driver learn commands with step-by-step screen prompts and spoken codes.
And a Luxury Pack with contrast stitching on selected upholstery, 20-inch alloys, Premium ICE, extended leather pack, HSE Luxury badge, heated steering wheel and adaptive cruise control is also available on the 3.0 SDV6 HSE at £3,065.
Land Rover boss Colin Green said: "The enhancements to the 2012 Range Rover Sport will ensure this car retains its position as one of the most economical and dynamic high performance SUVs on the market today.
“With greater levels of diesel engine efficiency, lower fuel emissions and exciting new features, the Range Rover Sport continues to live up to its reputation for power and refinement."
Prices are from £48,795 cars will be available from mid-October.