by Michael Satterfield - 12/04/2023
Land Rover, I mean JLR, is a brand that I have a lot of enthusiasm for, I first saw a Velar in 2017 when I was invited out to an event in Los Angeles by Swiss Watchmaker Zenith to see their new special edition Chronomaster El Primero Range Rover Velar, the slick new Velar was on display alongside the limited edition watches, and it was an exciting vehicle. But I never got the chance to drive a Velar until now, six years later, as the current generation Velar enters its twilight period. The second-generation Velar is slated to be an all-electric vehicle in 2025.
I didn't miss much, as little has changed since 2017. The latest Velar has a slightly different grill, an updated dash, and some new technology, but pull your 2017 up next to a 2024 and you will be hard-pressed to spot more than subtle revisions to the design. The Velar still looks good and is a compelling choice for those seeking a perfect blend of style, capability, and sophistication.
Despite the passing years, the Velar's design remains a showstopper. Its proportions are impeccable, and the surfaces exude purity. The minimalist approach, free from excessive step-lines, keeps the Velar looking as fresh as snow. The carefully crafted 'vents' on the bonnet and below the door mirrors, while slightly deceptive, contribute to reducing the visual mass and maintaining the SUV's aesthetic appeal.
Step inside the Velar, and you'll be greeted by a visually pared-back cabin that looks stunning in photos. However, be warned – its minimalist design demands cleanliness. Your mere presence, not to mention phones, cups, and bottles, can disrupt the carefully crafted ambiance. The latest big-screen command-and-control system enhances the interior's technological appeal, providing a slick and clever interface that, while modern, may prompt some nostalgia for the older system.
While not fully equipped for the extreme off-road adventures of its Range Rover siblings, the Velar's underbody and suspension, largely aluminum, shared with the Jaguar F-Pace, make it massively capable in the wilderness. It may lack a low-ratio transfer box and some advanced features, but it's more than sufficient for the majority of buyers who prioritize stylish urban driving over trekking across glaciers.
For the driver, the Velar offers a relaxed sense of security rather than an engaging ride. Let it lower your heartbeat as you enjoy the panoramic view of the scenery. The new range of engines not only adds to its capability but also ensures the Velar remains futureproofed for the road ahead.
In a market where competitors often feel like taller versions of their saloons, the Range Rover Velar maintains its distinctiveness. It strikes a perfect balance – roomy enough for a family, not too cumbersome for city driving, and capable of impressive off-road and towing feats. It's not just about style; it's a genuinely useful and versatile SUV.
Introduced in 2017, the Velar has become the high-style alternative in the mid-sized, mid-level luxury SUV segment. It's not the industry-typical image, but that's precisely what makes it quintessentially Range Rover. The 2023 update turns up the dial on its designer SUV credentials, reaffirming its status as a standout choice amidst competitors like the Mercedes GLC, BMW X3, and Audi Q5.
In conclusion, the Range Rover Velar, now in its middle age as a first-generation model, continues to embody the essence of Range Rover's commitment to style, capability, and luxury. As a pioneer in design within the luxury SUV realm, the Velar offers an experience that goes beyond the conventional, making it a timeless choice for those who appreciate automotive elegance with a touch of adventure.
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