2006 Fullsize SUV : LAND Rover Range Rover

Land Rover brought out the next generation of its largest SUV model at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The posh Range Rover SUV is manufactured in Britain and was redesigned for 2003 for only the third time in 32 years. It gained an all-new, stiffer monocoque body with an integrated chassis during that redesign.

Land Rovers have a long history of providing unsurpassed off-road capabilities. The 2006 Range Rover is offered with a 400-horsepower supercharged V-8 or a naturally aspirated V-8. Both V-8s are derived from Jaguar engines and operate using drive-by-wire throttle control. Land Rover claims the new Range Rover is quieter than its predecessor and has sharper steering. Newly available technology includes adaptive headlights, a tire-pressure monitor, and a touch-screen that works with the navigation, audio and phone systems.

The screen also provides off-road driving information. An improved air suspension incorporates adjustable ride height. The supercharged model has special stainless-steel pedals. Backseat DVD entertainment and a rearview camera are now available in the SUV. The SUV is equipped with eight standard airbags, including the usual frontal-impact devices, seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the front passengers and side curtain-type airbags for all outboard occupants. Antilock brakes and all-terrain Dynamic Stability Control are standard.