50 years of the Range Rover. Let that sink in.
The iconic model was never intended to be the luxurious vehicle it is today - but it's been amazing to watch the way it's shifted and molded over the years. Let's take a look at the Range Rover's history, revisiting the timeline from the first-generation Range Rover to the newest Range Rover Velar.
1970 - The very first Range Rover was released. The 3-door prototype was started in 1967, finalized in 1969, and released to the public in 1970 - and since then, the British auto scene has never been the same. The initial Range Rover was displayed in the Louvre museum in Paris, France, as an "exemplary work of industrial design". That's a feat to be proud of, and an honor that not many vehicles receive.
1981 - A 4-door version of the Range Rover was made public, thanks to the vehicle's popularity.
1987 - Range Rovers officially came available in the United States. The first generation Range Rover was more convenient and capable than luxurious. It had vinyl seats and a plastic dashboard that made it easy to clean, which are far from the models produced today. The original also came with power steering, permanent four-wheel drive, and the choice of a V8 or diesel engine.
1994 - The second generation Range Rover was launched, dubbing the first version the "Range Rover classic". With this came a design shift that included higher-end trims, additional features and equipment, and the now recognizable rectangular headlights.
2001 - The third generation range rover came out. It was the first to be built with a unibody, marking a new trend going forward.
2005 - The Range Rover Sport was released. It showcased Land Rover's renewed commitment to performance with a supercharged 4.2-liter engine, cross-linked air suspension for optional ride height, and 4x4 driving.
2011 - The new-concept Range Rover Evoque was unveiled, creating an enormous buzz in the auto industry.
2012 - Enter the fourth generation Range Rover. New to the vehicle were a lightweight aluminum body, long wheelbase, and floating roof.
2013 - The first Range Rover hybrid is released. It featured better fuel economy without compromising style or performance.
- The second generation Range Rover Sport launched.
2015 - Say hello to the Range Rover Sport SVR. High performance and optimum power create a thrilling experience for any driver.
- The Range Rover SVAutobiography redefines the Range Rover experience. The attention to detail and sophistication make it a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle.
2017 - Introducing, the Range Rover Velar, a beautifully designed SUV with the same luxurious look as the existing lineup.
To celebrate 50 years of Range Rover assembly, Land Rover's Solihull, England plant is opening an attraction titled " The Range Rover Story". You can experience the entire Range Rover evolution from the 1967 prototype to the newest Range Rover Velar. The attraction focuses on honoring British design, engineering integrity, and 50 years of rich Range Rover history.
If you're interested in purchasing a Range Rover of your own and becoming a part of history, see our current inventory or call Land Rover Chicago at 888-708-5281.