2003 Land Rover Range Rover HSE

Sleek metal accents contrast with wood paneling for a modern look, and an in-dash LCD display shows the driver essential information about the vehicle. New are choices of wood trim as well as seat and trim fabrics. A power sunroof is standard, as are steering column-mounted audio controls. However, some upscale features—such as heated seats, a 6-disc CD changer and the GPS navigation system—are available only as added options.


Safety equipment is comprehensive. Eight standard airbags include front, side and head as well as bags for rear outboard passengers. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are backed by technological systems like Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), as well Ford's Dynamic Stability Control program.

Bigger and more powerful than ever, Ford has incorporated BMW-instilled powertrain improvements to bring the Range Rover out of the '70s and into the new millennium.

Security also is a high priority: This SUV comes with deadlocks and an ultrasonic alarm system. The company also notes that the Range Rover includes a "panic button" that activates locks for "strong resistance to attack." One can assume this is adequate protection on safari or in the urban jungle.


Drivers seeking the ultimate luxo-SUV should get in line now. Ford plans to produce 35,000 new Range Rovers a year at peak production, with first-year sales expected to hit about 7,000 in the U.S. Range Rover expects its customers will have in common "wealth," with an average age of 47 and that 80 percent will be male. Range Rover views its off-road competitors as the LX 470, the Mercedes M-Class and the BMW X-5 and on-road competitors as the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series. Exact pricing will be announced closer to the release date in June and will be slightly higher than that of the current Range Rover, starting at approximately $70,000. (www.rangerover.landrover.com)