Range Rover Sport HST revealed with all-new inline-six Ingenium mild hybrid engine – 400 PS and 550 Nm

This is the new Range Rover Sport HST, a special edition model that is the first production vehicle from Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) to feature a mild hybrid powertrain based on the company’s all-new 3.0 litre straight-six Ingenium petrol engine. However, it is not the first Land Rover model with a mild hybrid powertrain as that honour goes to the latest Evoque.

Among the highlights of the new mill include the use of a twin scroll turbocharger as well as an electric supercharger. The latter runs on a 48-volt electrical system, and is capable of spooling fully in just 0.5 seconds at up to 120,000 rpm, which the company claims virtually eliminates any lag.

Other aspects of the mild hybrid system include a 48-volt battery, regenerative braking system and an electric motor. The e-motor is paired with the 3.0 litre engine, and provides torque assistance when pulling away from a standing start. A start-stop system is also present to further improve fuel economy.

The straight-six unit also comes with JLR’s Continuous Variable Valve Lift (CVVL) and Variable Cam Timing (VCT) technologies for optimum efficiency. Land Rover claims the new powertrain emits 12% less CO2 compared to its outgoing V6 petrol engine, while the adoption of a particulate filter helps reduce emissions by 75%.

Not only that, the new engine serves up 400 PS and 550 Nm of torque, which is more than the JLR’s supercharged V6’s 380 PS and 450 Nm. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h.

An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system are standard, as are active suspension with adjustable air springs, active dampers and the Terrain Response 2 off-road driving system.

To distinguish the HST from a normal Range Rover Sport, the model gets dedicated badges and carbon-fibre trim on the bonnet, front grille, side vents and tailgate. Customers will get to choose from two alloy wheel designs and five exterior colours, the former being accompanied by red brake calipers (anodised grey optional).

Inside, the 16-way powered front seats feature an updated colour pattern, while suedecloth detailing can be found on the steering wheel, gear lever and Satin Chrome gear shift paddles.

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