Revealed at the New York Auto Show, the model uses a lightweight aluminium architecture to achieve a weight saving of up to 420kg, giving agile handling along with a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions and up to 24% saving in fuel consumption.

Land Rover global brand director John Edwards said: ‘The all-new Range Rover Sport is a vehicle that has been designed and engineered without compromise. With Land Rover capability at its heart, it is one of the most road focused vehicles we’ve ever produced, but of course still offers unsurpassed all-terrain capability. It is a vehicle which is designed to be driven. We’ve taken ride, handling and agility to another level for Land Rover to deliver a truly rewarding, sporting drive, together with unmatched luxury, capability and versatility.’

The new completes the three-model Range Rover portfolio and is positioned to sit clearly between the Range Rover and the Evoque, with shared design elements and its integrated third-row “occasional 5+2 seating” that leaves a flat floor with no loss of boot space.

Although the new model is 62mm longer than its predecessor, its overall length of 4,850mm makes it shorter than other seven-seater SUVs and most E- segment sedans, with Land Rover highlighting its greater manoeuvrability and ease of parking. However an increase of 178mm in the wheelbase provides greater room and improved access for rear passengers. 

Two engine choices will be available from launch, comprising a supercharged 5.0-litre 503bhp V8 petrol engine and a 3.0-litre 288bhp SDV6 diesel engine. These will be joined in early 2014 by a 3.0-litre 254bhp TDV6 and 4.4-litre 334bhp SDV8 diesel engine. In addition, a diesel hybrid model will be available to order in 2014, offering CO2 emissions of 169g/km.

All models across the range are fitted with an advanced intelligent Stop/Start system, which improves fuel consumption by up to 7%.

There will be a choice of three equipment levels from launch (HSE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography Dynamic), and an SE derivative available on TDV6 models from early 2014.

New features include a digital camera system that supports three driver assistance features: Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Automatic High Beam Assist. The Sport will also introduce a new Wade Sensing feature that provides “depth” information when driving through water.

The new model will be produced in Solihull in the UK and will go on sale during the third quarter of 2013.