Rover Rover SVR (First Generation 2015-2021) Buyers Guide

When the 2015 Range Rover Sport SVR was introduced, it marked a significant leap for Land Rover, embodying the brand’s commitment to blending luxury with high performance. Developed by Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, the SVR was more than just a new model; it was a statement of intent, showcasing Land Rover’s ability to compete in the high-performance SUV segment.

This first-generation model aimed to elevate the Range Rover Sport’s prestige by offering unprecedented power and driving dynamics without sacrificing the brand’s renowned off-road capabilities.

Under its assertive hood lies a formidable powerplant: a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, delivering an impressive 550 hp and 502 lb-ft of torque. This engineering marvel enables the SVR to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, positioning it among the fastest SUVs of its time. The engine’s robust performance is matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery.

The exterior design of the Range Rover Sport SVR exudes aggression and sophistication. It features a bold front fascia with larger air intakes and a distinctive grille, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and cooling efficiency.

The sculpted hood, flared wheel arches, and quad exhaust tips further emphasize its sporty credentials. Unique SVR badging and exclusive 21-inch or optional 22-inch alloy wheels add to its commanding presence on the road.

Inside, the SVR’s cabin blends luxury and sportiness seamlessly. It is equipped with sporty, yet comfortable, bucket seats upholstered in premium leather, offering both support during spirited driving and comfort for long journeys. The interior also features high-quality materials such as aluminum trim and carbon fiber accents, reflecting the vehicle’s performance-oriented nature.

Advanced technology is at the forefront, with a state-of-the-art infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a range of driver assistance features enhancing both convenience and safety.

Throughout its production years, the Range Rover Sport SVR underwent several updates, including an increase in engine output to 575 hp in 2018, along with aesthetic and technological enhancements. These updates kept the SVR competitive and aligned with modern automotive advancements.

In the high-performance SUV segment, the Range Rover Sport SVR faces competition from rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, BMW X5 M, and Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S. Despite the competition, the SVR stands with its combination of luxurious refinement, off-road capabilities, and performance.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2015 Range Rover SVR

The Range Rover Sport SVR was introduced in 2014 as a 2015 model.

Under the hood, it featured a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine that produced 550 hp and 502 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. This impressive powertrain was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts.

Performance was a key focus for the SVR, which boasted a specially tuned suspension to enhance handling and stability. The vehicle was equipped with an advanced four-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction and control across various driving conditions. Additionally, the SVR featured an adaptive air suspension system that adjusted the ride height and firmness to suit different terrains and driving styles, further enhancing its versatility.

It also included high-performance brakes to ensure exceptional stopping power, crucial for a vehicle with such impressive acceleration. The exhaust system was uniquely tuned to provide a distinctive, throaty sound that matched its sporty nature.

The starting price for the 2015 Range Rover SVR was approximately $112,000.

2016 Range Rover SVR

In 2016, the Range Rover SVR saw a series of minor updates aimed at enhancing the overall refinement and build quality of the vehicle. These updates included improvements in materials and craftsmanship throughout the interior, contributing to a more luxurious and polished driving experience. 

A significant addition this year was the introduction of the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. This advanced system featured a larger, more responsive touchscreen that offered enhanced graphics and quicker operation. 

It also provided improved connectivity options, including better smartphone integration and expanded functionality, allowing drivers and passengers to stay connected and entertained more seamlessly.

The starting price for the 2016 Range Rover SVR remained the same as the previous year at approximately $112,000.

2017 Range Rover SVR

In 2017, the Range Rover SVR received several significant interior refinements aimed at enhancing the luxury and comfort of the vehicle. The interior saw improvements in materials and assembly quality, with almost everything being swathed in premium leather.

Areas not covered in leather were finished with high-quality wood, carbon fiber, metallic trim, or high-grade plastics, contributing to an overall sense of luxury and sophistication.

The seats were a major highlight, featuring special SVR sport seats with harness holes, providing more support and comfort, especially during dynamic driving. These seats were also trimmed and embossed in high-quality Oxford leather, enhancing both aesthetics and comfort. 

Additionally, the rear seating was designed to replicate the comfort and support of the front seats, with individually sculpted bucket seats for the outer passengers.

The starting price for the 2017 Range Rover SVR continued to be the same as the previous year $112,000.

2018 Range Rover SVR

In 2018, the Range Rover SVR underwent a significant facelift as part of its mid-cycle refresh. This included a complete overhaul of the front and rear styling, featuring newly designed LED headlights and taillights that gave the vehicle a more contemporary and sleek appearance. 

The interior saw substantial improvements with the introduction of the dual-screen Touch Pro Duo infotainment system. This system provided a more modern and user-friendly interface, enhancing the overall driving experience with advanced connectivity and control options.

Performance enhancements were also a key part of the 2018 update. The engine received slight tweaks that boosted its output to 575 hp, an increase from the previous 550 hp. This improvement translated into a quicker acceleration, reducing the 0-60 mph time to just 4.3 seconds, making the 2018 Range Rover SVR not only more powerful but also faster and more responsive on the road.

The starting price for the 2017 Range Rover SVR was approximately $114,000.

2019 Range Rover SVR

In 2019, the Range Rover SVR introduced several special edition models to enhance its appeal and offer more customization options. Notably, the SVR Carbon Edition stood out with extensive carbon fiber detailing, including an exposed carbon fiber bonnet center section, front bumper insert surrounds, and a carbon fiber engine cover.

This edition also featured unique 22-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels and exclusive SVR Carbon Edition treadplates, emphasizing its sporty and high-performance nature.

Additionally, the 2019 lineup included the HSE Dynamic Black and HSE Dynamic Stealth editions, which featured an exterior Black Pack, 21-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels, Privacy Glass, and an all-black interior. These editions were available in Santorini Black or Carpathian Grey with a contrast roof and came standard with a fixed panoramic roof and a Meridian Surround Sound System.

The starting price for the 2019 Range Rover SVR was approximately $115,000.

2020 Range Rover SVR

In 2020, the Range Rover SVR received significant updates to its Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, which greatly improved user experience and responsiveness. These enhancements made the system more intuitive, with quicker response times and a more user-friendly interface. 

This year also introduced new optional features, including upgraded audio systems that delivered higher-quality sound. There were also updates to the driver assistance packages, providing advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The starting price for the 2020 Range Rover SVR was approximately $115,000.

2021 Range Rover SVR

In 2021, the Range Rover SVR introduced an optional performance package that included upgraded brakes and suspension components. 

The interior of the saw expanded options for materials and color combinations, allowing for greater customization. Customers could choose from a variety of high-quality leather trims and new color schemes, including options like Windsor leather 16-way adjustable seats and luxurious Semi-Aniline leather 22-way adjustable seats for enhanced refinement. 

The SVR Carbon Edition featured extensive carbon fiber detailing, adding a sporty and sophisticated touch to the cabin. Configurable ambient lighting with up to 10 color options was also available, creating a more personalized and relaxing environment within the vehicle

The starting price for the 2021 Range Rover SVR was approximately $116,000 and the SVR Carbon Edition was $131,000.

Range Rover SVR Common Problems

Range Rovers are often known to be notorious for experiencing a range of problematic issues throughout their lifespan. These issues can include electrical faults, suspension problems, and other mechanical failures, which can lead to frequent repairs and higher maintenance costs over time.

However, it is essential to keep in mind that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Electrical Issues: Electrical problems are frequent in the Range Rover SVR, ranging from minor glitches such as malfunctioning buttons or lights to more severe issues like complete electrical failures. Many owners have reported infotainment system problems, including freezing or random restarts, as well as issues with vehicle sensors and adaptive cruise control.

Suspension Problems: The suspension system, designed for a smooth ride, can develop issues such as squeaking or clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and a bouncy or harsh ride. These problems are often due to worn-out suspension components or a faulty air suspension system.

Transmission Issues: Transmission problems are another common issue, including rough shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure. Some owners have also reported the vehicle getting stuck in gear or slipping out of gear unexpectedly.

Fuel System Problems: Issues with the fuel system can include fuel leaks, fuel pump failures, or faulty fuel filters. These problems can cause the vehicle to stall or have difficulty starting.

Cooling System Malfunctions: Cooling system problems, such as coolant leaks, overheating, or faulty radiators, have been reported. These issues, if not addressed promptly, can lead to engine damage and costly repairs.

Recalls

(All recalls involving Range Rover Sport models will include SVR as well)

2018-2022 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Back over prevention: sensing system: camera (Recall no. 24V023000)

Water may enter into the rearview camera, which can cause the rearview camera image not to appear on the display or display a distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, “Rear Visibility.”. A rearview camera image that does not display while in reverse decreases the driver’s visibility, increasing the risk of injury or crash.

2019-2022 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vehicles

Engine and engine cooling: Cooling system (Recall no. 23V221000)

The water pump pulley drive belt may become damaged or detach, which can allow the engine to overheat. An overheated engine can rupture the engine coolant elbow pipe, leaking coolant onto the turbocharger heat shield. Coolant leaking onto the turbocharger heat shield inside the engine compartment can increase the risk of a fire.

2019-2023 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Engine and engine cooling: Engine: Oil/lubrication (Recall no. 23V044000)

The engine cam carrier oil channel may be blocked, which can lead to an oil leak. An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

2016-2017 Range Rover vehicles

Seat belts: Front: Retractor (Recall no. 22V219000)

The driver’s seat belt emergency locking retractor may not lock as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 209, “Seat Belt Assemblies” and 208, “Occupant Crash Protection.”

2015-2016 2016 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Latches/locks/linkages: Doors: Latch (Recall no. 19V392000)

Due to a problem with the Keyless Vehicle Latching System (KV Latch), the doors may appear to be closed but may be unlatched. The unlatched door may open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of a crash.

2016 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Latches/locks/linkages: Doors: Latch (Recall no. 19V390000)

A spring in the Keyless Vehicle Latching System (KV Latch) may get stuck, causing the left hand door to remain unlatched when the door is closed. The unlatched door may open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.

2016-2017 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Engine (Recall no. 19V040000)

The affected vehicles are equipped with V6 or V8 engines whose crankshaft pulley retaining bolt may fracture possibly resulting in engine failure. Engine failure can increase the risk of crash.

2016 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Air bags: Frontal: Passenger side: Inflator module (Recall no. 17V154000)

The passenger frontal air bag inflator initiator may fail to ignite during a crash. If the air bag inflator initiator fails to ignite, the passenger frontal air bag will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

2016 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Air bags: Frontal: Passenger side: Inflator module (Recall no. 16V941000)

The affected vehicles have a front passenger air bag inflator initiator that may fail to ignite during a crash, preventing the air bag from deploying. In the event of a crash of sufficient severity, the front passenger air bag may not deploy as required, increasing the risk of injury.

2016-2017 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Seat belts: Pretensioner (Recall no. 16V942000)

The affected vehicles have seatbelt pretensioners that may not function properly in the event of a crash. If the front seat seatbelt pretensioners do not function properly, the seat occupants may not be adequately restrained in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

2015 Range Rover Sport vehicles 

Seats: Mid/rear assembly (Recall no. 15V600000)

In the affected vehicles, the second row seat back may not latch properly, especially in the center section. In the event of a crash, if the seat back is not properly latched, the seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing their risk of injury.

2015-2016 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Latches/locks/linkages: Doors: Latch (Recall no. 15V385000)

In the affected vehicles, the doors may unlatch unexpectedly when closed. If a vehicle door unlatches, the distraction may increase the risk of a crash and/or a vehicle occupant may fall out of the vehicle if they are not wearing a seatbelt, increasing their risk of injury.

2015 Land Rover Range Rover vehicles

Wheels: Lugs/nuts/bolts/studs (Recall no. 15V092000)

The affected vehicles have wheel lug nuts that may crack and detach from the wheel hub stud. If one or more of the wheel lug nuts crack or detach from the wheel hub, the remaining lug nuts may be unable to keep the wheel secured to the vehicle. If the wheel detaches, loss of vehicle control would result, in increasing the risk of a crash.

2015 Range Rover Sport vehicles

Engine and engine cooling: Engine (Recall no. 15V069000)

In the affected vehicles, the 3.0L V6 supercharged engines may have improperly torqued connecting rod bolts. As a result, the connecting rod may separate from the crankshaft and the engine may seize. If the engine seizes there is an increased risk of a crash.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Compared to other high-performance SUVs in its segment, the Range Rover SVR offers a reasonably balanced ownership experience. However, it is important to highlight that owning a vehicle like the SVR comes with higher maintenance costs and the potential for more significant issues than typical commuter vehicles. 

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here is the suggested service schedule and intervals per Range Rover:

5,000-MILE SERVICE

Every 5,000 miles, or about six months, inspect or replace the following:

Engine oil and air filterTire pressure, tread and wear and tearChassis lubricationCar battery and cables

10,000-MILE SERVICE

These maintenance checks should be done every 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first:

Coolant levelsTransmission fluid levelsSteering and suspension

15,000-MILE SERVICE

The standard maintenance recommendation at 15,000 miles includes replacements of the crankcase oil filter and cabin air filter, as well as checking the:

Hood latch assembly and door checksParking brake and brake systemPower steering system fluid levelsCooling system fluid levelsOn-board diagnostic systemUnderbodyWindshield wiper blades, windshield washer fluid levelsWheels and tiresDrive beltsExterior lightingExhaust system

20,000-MILE SERVICE FOR RANGE ROVER

Range Rover maintenance at 20,000 miles includes:

Replace air filterClean the batteryPerform anti-corrosionInspect windshield wiper and washer systemsInspect lighting systemInspect exhaustInspect coolantInspect fuel system

30,000-MILE SERVICE FOR RANGE ROVER

At 30,000 miles, you should do all of the 15,000-mile maintenance tasks, 10,000-mile maintenance, and 5,000-mile maintenance, and add the following:

Brake line and hose inspection and brake system fluid changeDriveshaft inspectionFuel line inspectionSeat belt restraint system inspectionSteering system and power steering hose inspectionSuspension inspectionWiring harness inspection

40,000-MILE SERVICE FOR RANGE ROVER

The Range Rover service schedule at 40,000 miles includes:

Replace the transfer gearbox oilInspect exhaust systemInspect the brake system including brake calipers, drum, and padsReplace differential fluidInspect horn operation

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Range Rover:

Oil Change – As low as $225 for independent mechanics and $300 for dealers.

Minor Service – Typically includes oil change, cabin filters, and engine filters. The cost from a dealer is around $1,500

Major Service – Typically includes all the above plus spark plugs, brake flush, and trans flush, expect about $2,500 from a dealer.

Tires – A set of high-performance tires like Continental CrossContact LX Sport will cost about $2,000.

Brakes – Aftermarket brake pads equivalent to the original equipment will cost around $800 for a full set. If the vehicle has steel brakes and you need to replace the entire system, the cost can be about $6,000.

Options List

When considering the purchase of a first-generation Range Rover SVR, there are several key factors and options to consider. 

Key performance options to consider include Dynamic Response, which enhances handling by reducing body roll through corners, and Adaptive Dynamics, which monitors vehicle movements up to 500 times per second to provide the optimum suspension settings. High-performance braking systems, including optional carbon ceramic brakes, offer superior stopping power.

Options like the SVR Carbon Fiber Package, which adds carbon fiber accents to the front bumper, hood, and side mirrors, can improve the value of the vehicle. Additionally, 22-inch alloy wheels available in multiple finishes provide both aesthetic appeal and performance benefits, while LED headlights with signature DRL offer enhanced visibility and a modern look.

Some of the options available included Windsor leather upholstery available in various color combinations for a personalized touch, heated and cooled seats ensuring comfort in all weather conditions, and the Meridian Signature Sound System, which delivers exceptional audio quality with up to 1700 watts and 23 speakers.

When it comes to connectivity options, there were a few that helped with convenience and entertainment such as InControl Touch Pro Duo with dual 10-inch touchscreens provides seamless control over various functions.

A head-up display projects key information onto the windshield, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road, while driver assistance features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree parking aid add to the overall driving experience.

Key Options

SVR Carbon Fiber PackageWindsor Leather UpholsteryInControl Touch Pro DuoCarbon-Ceramic BrakesAdaptive Dynamics

The Best Range Rover SVR to Buy

When considering the first-generation Range Rover SVR (2015-2021), there are several key factors to consider that can affect the vehicle’s long-term value. It is broken down into a few key categories. 

For those seeking a first-generation Range Rover SVR that offers the best value, the 2018 model year is a good choice. It comes with performance features, updated styling, and technology that set it apart from other years.

The 2018 model received a significant mid-cycle refresh, including a boost in engine output to 575 hp, revised front and rear styling, and the introduction of the dual-screen Touch Pro Duo infotainment system.

The 2018 SVR also includes various customization options, allowing for personalized touches that enhance the vehicle’s appeal and exclusivity. These options include multiple exterior colors, interior materials, and high-performance wheel designs.

However, all first-generation Range Rover SVR (2015 to 2021) models remain strong purchases. The SVR’s combination of a powerful supercharged V8 engine, high-quality interior materials, and cutting-edge technology make it a great choice for any luxury SUV buyer.

In addition to model selection, the condition and mileage of the vehicle are crucial factors to consider when buying a Range Rover SVR. Vehicles that have been well-maintained and have low mileage are more likely to retain their value over time.

It is important to conduct thorough research, compare prices, and look for well-maintained cars if you are considering purchasing a Range Rover SVR with the goal of maintaining its value.

Conclusion

In summary, with a starting price of around $50,000 to $75,000+ the Range Rover SVR, with its powerful performance and luxurious features, is an exciting choice for those seeking a high-performance SUV.

While alternatives like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, BMW X5 M, and Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S exist, the Range Rover SVR stands out with its design and off-road capabilities.