2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Trims and Specs

Adaptable to any driving condition, whether it be to a play date or an offroad adventure, the 2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE represents the starter version of this small and sporty SUV. A 300-hp, 4.4-liter DOHC V8 sits under the hood, putting out 310 lb-ft of torque at 4000 RPM and rating 12/17 mpg on the road. It is matched to a 6-speed shiftable automatic and can tow up to 7700 pounds. Riding on 19-inch alloy wheels, the SUV features two rows of seats with ample legroom. Rear seats split-fold 65/35 and come with cupholders. The cargo area expands from 33.8 to 71 cubic feet, with a liftgate that opens separately from the rear window. A roof rack is also standard.

For transporting families, the 2008 Range Rover Sport HSE packs a ton of safety features, including 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows, Hill Descent Control, traction and stability control, and front and rear parking sensors. Also included are a tire monitor, foglights, automatic headlights with xenon HID lamps, rain-sensing wipers, and headlamp washers.

The full-time 4WD system features high and low-range gearing for on and offroad performance. It is accompanied by a double wishbone front and rear suspension and an adaptable air suspension. An electronic locking center differential is standard, with a rear locking differential optional. It combines with the Terrain Response System, where the driver can select five different settings to adjust the transmission, ride height, and throttle control. The Dynamic Response System, which helps prevent rollovers, is optional, paired with larger Brembo brakes.

Built for rugged work, the 2008 Range Rover Sport HSE doesn't skimp on luxury. 8-way power front seats, full power features, remote entry, a security system, memory settings for three drivers, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, leather upholstery and trim, a sunroof, and a navigation system are all standard. Power tilt and telescopic steering, power folding mirrors, heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, a trip computer, and a compass and temperature display are also handy. For entertainment, there's a Harmon Kardon 6-CD player with MP3 audio input and surround sound. You can upgrade to the Supercharged amenities, by adding optional 20-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, a DVD player, and heated washer fluid.

The Supercharged title for this trim refers to the 4.2-liter supercharged DOHC V8 engine, which delivers an impressive 390-hp and 410 ft-lbs at 3500 RPM. This V8 gets about the same gas mileage (12/17 mpg) and towing power (7700 pounds) as that in the HSE. It also demands premium gas. The 2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged also adds a few more standard luxury and technological features.

Moving up to the Supercharged gets you larger 20-inch alloy wheels and the Dynamic Response Suspension System with larger anti-sway bars and Brembo brakes. These combine with the five-setting Terrain Response System, adaptable air suspension, and the full-time 4WD for stronger road grip and more responsive handling. The 4WD system features high and low range gearing and an electronic center locking differential, with the option to add a rear locking differential. Traction and stability control, front and rear parking sensors, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows are standard. Other safety features include automatic headlights with xenon lamps, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, headlight washers, an auto-dimmming rearview mirror, and a tire monitor. The 2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged adds adaptive headlights for better cornering visibility.

Inside, this smallest of the Land Rover SUVs seats four or five in two rows, with the rear row split-folding 65/35. Trunk capacity starts at 33.8 and expands to 71. A beverage cooler compartment is standard in the Supercharged, which also adds heated seats, upgraded leather upholstery, satellite radio, and three extra speakers for the Harmon Kardon audio system. The 6-CD player plays MP3s and features an MP3 input jack.

Other standard luxury items include a sunroof, 8-way power front seats, heated power-folding mirrors, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, dual-zone climate control, power tilt and telescopic steering, a security system, remote entry, a garage remote, and 3-driver memory settings for the steering wheel and mirrors. A trip computer, navigation system, and compass and temperature display provide driver information. Bluetooth capability is also standard. Leather and wood trim decorate the interior, while a rear spoiler flashes up the exterior. Options are few, but nice. They include a rear DVD player and adaptive cruise control.