Long wheelbase Range Rover on its way

 What’s the news?

Land Rover has announced that the 2014 Range Rover is set to become even more luxurious with the introduction of both a long wheelbase version – the first for 20 years – and an Autobiography Black edition. Both cars will make their world debuts at motor shows in November; with sales expected to start next year.

Exterior
The new Autobiography Black version will sit as the flagship model in the Range Rover family. Outside, Land Rover has added various styling tweaks to set it apart from the now-demoted Autobiography model. Both the front grille and side vents come with new design features; as do the rear light clusters. The tailgate now features a chrome accent finish, and bespoke badging has been added, too. New alloy wheels complete the flagship's refreshed look, available as seven-spoke items in either 21- or 22-inch forms. As well as the standard version of the Range Rover, the Autobiography Black can also be had in long wheelbase form. The 'regular' Autobiography can be had in this format as well; which should be instantly recognisable to passers-by thanks to the retention of the car's original profile despite the extra length.

Interior
Inside, the Autobiography Black takes the luxury SUV to a new level. The car comes with the Executive Class four-seat package as standard; albeit with a unique seat design. This package replaces the rear bench with two individual seats; each being fully adjustable and with 10.2-inch displays mounted in the back of the two front seats. More kit can be found in the rear centre console that houses two electrically deployable tables, USB charging sockets, cup holders, a fridge and controls for the lumbar massage in the seats. Front occupants can also enjoy a massage function as well as 18-way electrically adjustable chairs. Fully-customisable ambient lighting is also a standard feature, as is a leather-wrapped parcel shelf and illuminated ‘Autobiography Black’ kickplates. This newfound luxury is likely to be best enjoyed in long-wheelbase form; which gives customers 140mm more leg room in the back as well as the ability to recline their rear seats by 17 degrees – eight more than the standard version. Electric rear blinds and a panoramic sunroof also find themselves on the standard equipment list on long-wheelbase models.

Mechanicals
The existing 3.0-litre TDV6 and 4.4-litre SDV8 diesel engines can be had in both the long-wheelbase version and the Autobiography Black. Both engines come with Start/Stop systems as standard; with the most powerful version producing 339hp and 700Nm of torque while emitting just 229g/km of CO₂. Land Rover will also be making the hybrid powertrain available for the long-wheelbase version later on next year.

Anything else?
The long-wheelbase Range Rover will make its first public appearance at the L.A. Auto Show on 20th November; with the Autobiography Black set to be unveiled at the Dubai Motor Show. First deliveries are expected to take place in March and August 2014 respectively. Prices have yet to be announced.