2016 Range Rover Sport gains new 280kW HST version

Land Rover has announced it will be presenting the new Range Rover Sport HST at the New York Auto Show on 3 April.

Powered by a 280kW 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine, the new HST slots between the 250kW Range Rover Sport 3.0-litre V6 supercharged and the top of the range 405kW 5.0-litre V8 supercharged Range Rover Sport SVR.

The bold new Range Rover Sport HST is identified by its unique black theme. It boasts “Stealth Pack” lamps front and rear with non-reflective surrounds, a Santorini Black contrast roof and a new spoiler, giving the luxury SUV a purposeful profile.

The HST’s distinctive 21-inch alloy wheels feature an exclusive dark satin grey finish helping to highlight the uprated brakes, which are identified by red brake calipers. Larger 22-inch Stealth alloy wheels are available as optional equipment.

The bonnet and front wing vents, grille and fog lamp bezels all feature a Gloss Black finish, echoed by the ‘Range Rover’ lettering on the leading edge of the bonnet and rear tailgate. Sculpted body-coloured lower door panels and additional vent detailing on the bumpers are also fitted.

In common with other Dynamic Range Rover Sport variants, the HST wears a red Sport badge at the rear, complemented by unique HST badging on the front wing vents.

Apart from gaining an extra 30kW over the Range Rover Sport 3.0 supercharged V6, the HST also benefits from a retuned suspension that is said to reduce body roll and deliver enhanced agility, while the updated brakes feature 20-inch discs for better stopping performance.

The HST is available with a single-range transmission, reflecting its high performance capabilities, and Land Rover’s engineers have devised a unique Terrain Response set-up for the vehicle. It features a Dynamic Mode, which optimises the suspension, Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) and other electronic systems to suit on-road driving.

Inside the HST comes with eye-catching duo tone seats trimmed in luxurious Oxford Leather. In combination with a contrast fascia, all-Ebony door trims and centre console and standard Ebony headlining, they create a unique environment. The high quality leather upholstery is available in four Ebony/colour combinations, along with an all-Ebony option.

Bespoke HST badging on the dashboard, carpet mats and the TFT instrument panel highlight the luxury model’s high performance focus. The sporty cues extend to Noble-plated paddle shift gear levers on the steering wheel and distinctive bright ‘Sports’ pedals, while the aluminium interior trim features a textured ‘Sports’ finish.