With its 3.6L Twin Turbo TDV8 engine, the Range Rover Sport TDV8 HSE reaches 0-60mph in 8.6 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph – well capable of safe and predictable overtaking.
You are driving a diesel but that is far from a bad thing because the TDV8 delivers - 472lb-ft of torque @ just 2000rpm, more than enough for the most demanding of off-road applications. There is even a sporty burble from the exhaust whilst accelerating.
On the road you can achieve between 24 to 34 mpg which is really quite impressive. All Range Rover Sport models have a ZF six-speed electronically controlled auto transmission, which distributes power to all four wheels and ensures smooth changes both up and down the range.
The fully adaptive 'intelligent shift' transmission alters its settings depending on the driving style and conditions. Aggressive driving means up-shifting will be delayed, to allow for higher revs and more power. A more gentle driving style means up-shifts will be delivered sooner, allowing for a more relaxed driving experience.