The rapid rise of new energy vehicles (NEVs) has many questioning whether diesel-powered luxury SUVs still deserve a place in today’s market. After spending a week behind the wheel of the Range Rover Sport D350, courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover South Africa, I came away convinced that there is still a compelling case for a refined diesel in the premium segment.
Finished in an eye-catching Velocity Blue metallic with imposing 23-inch gloss-black alloy wheels and dark-tinted windows, the test vehicle possessed the kind of understated presence that has made the Range Rover Sport a favourite among business executives, government officials, and affluent families alike. Its broad stance is accentuated by sculpted shoulders, crisp rear styling and distinctive tail-light graphics, while the flush door handles, hidden waist rail finisher and laser-welded roof create the clean, seamless appearance that defines modern Range Rover design.
Large proportions, sleek body lines, and short overhangs ensure the SUV looks athletic without sacrificing elegance. Up front, the signature daytime running lights lead the eye towards the grille, while the Digital LED headlights illuminate the road up to 500 metres ahead. They intelligently adapt to bends and traffic conditions while reducing glare for oncoming motorists.
Yet the biggest surprise lies beneath the bonnet. The D350’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid diesel engine develops an impressive 258kW and 700Nm of torque. More importantly, it never feels like a traditional diesel. In fact, it repeatedly reminded me of BMW’s legendary M50d tri-turbo diesel that once powered the X5 and X6. The engine delivers its power with remarkable smoothness, making it easy to forget what fuel is actually propelling this substantial SUV.
The mild-hybrid system harvests energy during deceleration before redeploying it when accelerating, resulting in seamless performance while also enhancing low-speed torque for towing and off-road driving. Whether overtaking on the highway or effortlessly gathering speed from traffic lights, the D350 feels muscular without ever becoming frantic.
Ride quality is equally impressive. The air suspension effortlessly smooths out poor road surfaces, delivering the plush, composed experience expected of a Range Rover. It is equally at home cruising long distances as it is navigating urban streets.
The steering can occasionally feel heavier than expected, particularly at lower speeds, but it is hardly a deal-breaker and becomes second nature after a few days behind the wheel.
Inside, the cabin benefits from the latest Range Rover technology, combining premium materials with a minimalist dashboard centred around Land Rover’s latest infotainment system. The cabin feels modern, spacious, and exceptionally well-insulated, further reinforcing the luxury experience.
Fuel economy also proved respectable. During my week-long test, I recorded between 8.1 and 8.9 litres per 100km, closely matching Jaguar Land Rover’s claimed combined figure of between 7.4 and 8.5 litres per 100km.
With pricing starting at R2 212 700, the Range Rover Sport D350 competes against the Lexus LX 500d F Sport and Overtrail, the BMW X5 xDrive30d, and the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450d 4Matic AMG Line.
For buyers who still appreciate effortless long-distance touring, immense , and outstanding refinement, but are not yet ready to embrace fully electric motoring, the Range Rover Sport D350 remains one of the most convincing luxury diesel SUVs on the market. In an era increasingly dominated by electrification, it proves that a well-engineered diesel still has plenty to offer.
