The Land Rover Range Rover is a classic SUV produced for over 50 years. There have been five different generations of the Range Rover. Let’s take a closer look at the different generations, the common complaints with these models, and see if buying used or certified pre-owned is the way to go.
First Generation (Classic)
The first generation of Range Rover was produced from the mid-1980s until the 1992 model year. These Classic models offered four doors in the United States and featured a powerful V8 engine. Automatic transmission was also standard.
Generation 2 (P38)
The second generation of the Range Rover was produced between 1996 and 2002. These models came equipped with a more luxurious interior and more convenient features. There was only one wheelbase, but two V8 engine options were available.
Generation 3 (L322)
The third generation models received a total redesign using the architecture developed by BMW. According to auto trader“Initially powered by a BMW V8 engine, the L322 got a facelift for the 2006 model year that saw the arrival of a new transmission and a more powerful Jaguar-Land Rover V8.”
Generation 4 (L405)
We met the fourth generation of the Range Rover in 2013. This generation saw another major redesign, this time with an even sleeker and more modern look. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid version was introduced for the 2019 models.
generation 5
The fifth generation models started in the 2022 model year. This is the first time the brand has launched a 3-row Range Rover. But more importantly, they launched greener hybrid options for drivers.
Common Land Rover Range Rover Complaints
While the Range Rover is generally considered a reliable SUV, there are some common complaints that owners have logged over the years:
Expensive Repairs – One of the most common complaints about the Range Rover is that repairs are expensive. This is especially true for older models, which may require frequent maintenance.
Poor Fuel Economy: Another common complaint is that the Range Rover isn’t particularly fuel efficient. This is especially true for older models, which can guzzle gas at an alarming rate.
Depreciation – Land Rover SUVs will depreciate more than the average used car. According to hot cars“When a car leaves the lot, it loses on average 20% of its value, for luxury cars this number can go as high as 20% a year, increasing up to 70% in a 5-year window.”
Pre-Owned vs. Certified Pre-Owned Land Rover
The main advantage of buying a used Land Rover is, of course, the price. Used cars are often much cheaper than their new counterparts, sometimes tens of thousands of dollars cheaper. There are some risks associated with buying a used car. For starters, it’s important to have a used car inspected by a qualified technician before you make a purchase. This way, he can be sure that there are no underlying issues that could cause problems in the future.
Like used cars, Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Land Rover models are cheaper than their new counterparts. However, CPO cars come with certain advantages that used cars do not. For starters, CPO Land Rover models must meet strict criteria set by the manufacturer to be considered for certification. Vehicles must pass a 165 multi-point inspection. This means that CPO cars are often of higher quality than the average used car.
Plus, CPO cars often come with added benefits like extended warranties and roadside assistance, things you wouldn’t get with a used car.
Is it worth buying a used Range Rover?
In general, it depends on your preferences. Used Range Rover SUVs may have a reputation for being unreliable, but they are not considered “bad cars.” You may need to be more patient than you would with another luxury vehicle. The good news is that you can buy a used Range Rover SUV at a great price.