All-New Range Rover to Debut in Paris with New Look

PEABODY, MASS. (08/16/2012)(readMedia)-- After 12 years in its current form, Land Rover's Range Rover is getting a much-deserved redesign that should prepare the iconic SUV for another decade of patrolling the back trails and urban streets. The fresh-faced luxury utility vehicle will make its official debut at the Paris Motor Show, which runs from Sept. 29 to Oct. 14, before going on sale in early 2013.

According to Automotive News, the current Range Rover's steel chassis will make way for a new all-aluminum structure that will shave roughly 600 pounds from the model's curb weight despite featuring a longer wheelbase to improve interior space. Reducing weight means better performance on and off the beaten path, as well as much improved fuel economy, a welcome development as efficiency becomes increasingly important to consumers. Automotive News also expects a plug-in hybrid version of the SUV to reach dealerships in 2013 or 2014, further bolstering the model's green credentials.

"With its advanced aluminum chassis and upscale amenities, the 2013 Range Rover will set a new standard in the luxury SUV market," said Dave Edwards, general manager of Land Rover Peabody, a Range Rover dealer in Massachusetts. "We've already seen the evolution of the brand with the stylish Evoque, so we're expecting the next-generation Range Rover to be a very special vehicle indeed."

The updated Range Rover is expected to take some of its design cues from the 2012 Range Rover Evoque, such as headlight shape and interior design. While the Range Rover has become a much-loved SUV over the years, the Evoque, which debuted just last year, is already impressing drivers. The compact luxury SUV's many satisfied owners are the reason it recently earned the best rating in its segment by drivers in J.D. Power and Associates' Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.

In the 2012 APEAL Study, released in July, the Range Rover Evoque received top marks in the Entry Premium Crossover SUV segment. The study surveyed more than 74,000 purchasers and lessees regarding their favorite things about new 2012-model-year vehicles after 90 days of ownership. The Evoque was rated by drivers as "among the best" in the Overall Performance and Design, Features and Instrument Panel, Style, and Performance categories. The Evoque was also "among the best" in terms of Owner-Reported Fuel Economy by Category.

"The Evoque has everything Massachusetts drivers want, whether they need a fuel-efficient, spacious crossover for running errands in Boston or a capable off-road vehicle for exploring the rest of New England," added Edwards. "The results of the APEAL Study show that Evoque buyers' expectations are being exceeded, and that's no easy feat when you consider the high standard Range Rover has set over the years."

About Land Rover Peabody:

Land Rover Peabody is home to a remarkable group of off-road enthusiasts who know exactly what their customers expect in Land Rover sales and service. They're proud to offer the latest Land Rover models, as well as unparalleled Land Rover service and OEM parts, and they invite new customers to take a test drive on their unique demonstration course to experience Land Rover performance firsthand. Browse their selection online at www.roverpeabody.com, visit the showroom at 247 Newbury St. in Peabody, Massachusetts, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/landroverpeabody or call them at 888-472-4137.