The Electrified Icon: A Comprehensive Review of the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV
In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs, 2025 marks a pivotal year for vehicles that masterfully blend opulent comfort with a genuine commitment to sustainability. At the forefront of this movement stands the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV, a vehicle that doesn’t just promise the best of both worlds – it undeniably delivers. Having spent a significant amount of time behind the wheel of this formidable machine, navigating everything from bustling city streets to challenging off-road terrains, it’s clear that Land Rover has refined its plug-in hybrid strategy to near perfection. This isn’t merely an upgrade; it’s a statement, redefining what a premium, performance-oriented hybrid SUV can achieve.
The immediate impression one gets when encountering the Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV is its undeniable presence. It retains the masculine good looks and athletic stance that have long defined the Range Rover Sport lineage, but with subtle, modern enhancements that hint at its advanced, electrified heart. But its true genius isn’t just skin deep; it
lies in its meticulously engineered powertrain and the intelligent way it integrates electric and gasoline propulsion.
Mastering the Hybrid Horizon: The P460e Powertrain Experience
Let’s talk numbers, and more importantly, the real-world implications of those numbers. My journey with the P460e powertrain began with an astounding observation: an average of 209.6 miles per gallon indicated on the trip computer after the initial 100 miles. This figure isn’t a fluke; it’s a testament to the Range Rover Sport PHEV’s superior design, particularly its generous electric range and efficient power delivery. During this initial phase, a solid 100 miles were covered purely on electric power, courtesy of two strategic full charges, each adding a substantial 50+ miles of range. This isn’t merely “useful” electric power; it’s transformative, allowing for a significant portion of daily commutes and errands to be completed with zero tailpipe emissions.
Many plug-in hybrids fall short by offering insufficient electric range or a motor that feels underpowered, forcing the gasoline engine to kick in prematurely. The 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV, however, meticulously sidesteps these common pitfalls. At its core is a robust 105-kilowatt (140-horsepower) electric motor, strategically positioned between the engine and transmission. While 140 horsepower might not sound monumental for a 5,860-pound luxury SUV, in practice, it’s remarkably adept. The vehicle defaults to EV mode, and I found it effortlessly keeping pace with urban traffic and even reaching highway speeds without any sense of strain or the intrusive rumble of the internal combustion engine. The engine only engages if you truly floor the accelerator past a distinct detent or if the ample battery charge depletes. This intuitive system empowers drivers to genuinely prioritize electric driving, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
The secret sauce for this impressive electric performance is the substantial 31.8-kilowatt-hour battery. This generous capacity translates to an EPA-rated 53 miles of electric range, though my real-world experience consistently showed 54 to 58 miles on a full charge. For the vast majority of drivers, this is more than enough to cover daily commutes, school runs, or short trips, effectively transforming this formidable SUV into a pure electric vehicle for everyday use. This extended electric range not only reduces your carbon footprint but also significantly cuts down on fuel costs, an increasingly attractive benefit in today’s economic climate. For those seeking even greater output, the P550e variant offers a potent 218-hp motor, boosting total system horsepower to 542 and shaving the 0-60 mph time to a blistering 4.7 seconds.
When the need for maximum power arises, or when the electric range is exhausted, the transition to hybrid mode is seamless and refined. The electric motor partners with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, culminating in a formidable combined output of 454 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. The engine note itself is a deep, sophisticated thrum, far more refined than many conventional V6 units. Power delivery is instant, thanks to the electric motor’s immediate torque, which also masterfully fills any gaps during shifts from the smooth and highly responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. This synergy propels the heavy SUV from 0-60 mph in a swift 5.3 seconds, a testament to its performance hybrid SUV credentials.
Of course, operating solely on gasoline reduces efficiency, with EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 22 highway, and 21 combined. However, even after depleting the electric charge and driving another 110 miles in Hybrid mode, the fuel economy settled at a respectable 36.2 mpg. This is still highly efficient for such a powerful and weighty luxury vehicle and highlights the strategic advantage of its plug-in design – with regular charging, overall efficiency remains remarkably high. It’s an intelligent approach to modern driving, offering both spirited performance and thoughtful fuel economy.
Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Comfort and Capability
The integration of the plug-in hybrid system, while beneficial for efficiency, does introduce approximately 800 pounds of additional weight to the Range Rover Sport. For discerning drivers, this means accepting a different dynamic character compared to its lighter, sportier predecessors. The P460e, in its standard configuration, exhibits a noticeable degree of body lean in aggressive turns, a touch of understeer, and only modest feedback through the weighty steering. This isn’t a track-focused machine, nor does it pretend to be.
However, where the Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV truly excels is in its unparalleled ride comfort. This SUV delivers one of the most sublime and isolating rides available on the market today. My test vehicle, equipped with optional 285/45R22 Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires, combined with the standard air suspension and adaptive dampers, quite simply devours road imperfections. Potholes and expansion joints become mere suggestions, absorbed almost entirely before reaching the cabin. This isn’t just an exceptional ride for an SUV; it’s a level of serene composure that would be entirely at home in a flagship luxury sedan like a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This balance between substantial presence and ethereal comfort defines the luxury driving dynamics of the 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV.
For those who desire a sharper, more engaging handling experience, Land Rover offers the optional $7,185 Stormer Handling Package. This critical upgrade introduces active anti-roll bars, powered by a sophisticated 48-volt electrical system, which dramatically reduce body lean in corners. Additionally, rear-axle steering, capable of turning the rear wheels up to 7.3 degrees opposite the fronts, significantly tightens the turning circle at low speeds and enhances high-speed stability during spirited cornering. For the enthusiast driver, this package transforms the Range Rover Sport into a surprisingly agile performer for its size, making it a highly recommended upgrade for a truly dynamic driving experience.
Unmatched Off-Road Prowess: Conquering the Unseen Path
Beyond its refined on-road manners, the Range Rover Sport retains its legendary off-road capability, bolstered by its intelligent air suspension system. In its standard setting, the vehicle offers a robust 8.5 inches of ground clearance, more than sufficient for most light trails. Engage Off-Road mode, however, and the air suspension lifts the vehicle to an impressive 10.8 inches, providing critical clearance over challenging obstacles. For practical everyday use, the suspension can also drop the vehicle by two inches, simplifying entry and exit or making loading cargo a breeze.
The foundation of its formidable off-road chops includes standard all-wheel drive with a locking center differential, ensuring power is optimally distributed to wheels with traction. An available two-speed transfer case provides essential low-range gearing for crawling over rocks or descending steep inclines, while hill descent control expertly manages speed on challenging descents. For the ultimate in controlled off-road navigation, a low-speed cruise control system can be precisely set from 1.8 to 19 mph, allowing the driver to focus entirely on steering.
Central to its capability is the Terrain Response 2 system, a pinnacle of automotive innovation. This intelligent system automatically assesses the driving surface and optimally adjusts various vehicle systems – including engine response, transmission shifts, differential locking, and suspension settings – for maximum traction and stability. Furthermore, it offers specifically tailored modes for Mud Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, Wade, and Grass Gravel Snow, providing unparalleled confidence in diverse conditions. The short front and rear overhangs are also key design elements that significantly aid in tackling steep approach and departure angles, critical for serious off-roading. While the all-season tires on my tester proved capable for general use, dedicated off-road tires would undoubtedly unlock the vehicle’s full potential for extreme mud and sand excursions.
The Sanctuary Within: Interior Design and Cutting-Edge Technology
Stepping into the cockpit of the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV is to enter a realm of contemporary luxury and sophisticated design. The cabin exudes a premium feel that perfectly complements its exceptional ride quality. Standard luxury features for the Dynamic SE include sumptuous Windsor leather upholstery, 20-way power-adjustable front seats that are both heated and ventilated, and a heated steering wheel – essentials for ultimate comfort in any climate. My test vehicle further elevated this experience with the optional 19-speaker, 800-watt Meridian audio system ($1,200), delivering concert-hall sound quality, and heated and ventilated outboard rear seats ($300), ensuring all passengers enjoy the journey. The tactile beauty of the leather is tastefully contrasted by attractive charcoal gray fabric on the door panels, elegant piano black trim on the center console, and subtle metallic accents, creating a modern yet inviting ambiance.
Technology is seamlessly integrated, creating a clean and minimalist aesthetic. A sharp 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster provides all vital driving information, while a commanding 13.1-inch infotainment touchscreen serves as the central hub for connectivity and controls. Wireless smartphone charging, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity ensure you remain effortlessly connected to your digital world.
However, this reliance on a single central touchscreen for nearly all controls, including climate settings, presents a minor trade-off. While it contributes to an uncluttered dashboard, I occasionally found myself delving into menus for functions that a simple physical button could have handled more intuitively. This clean layout, while visually appealing, might require a slight adjustment period for some users. Addressing historical perceptions of Land Rover’s electronics, the brand has made significant strides in reliability and user interface responsiveness, with the 2025 model showcasing a robust and intuitive system that largely alleviates past “electronic gremlin” concerns.
Value Proposition and the Road Ahead
The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV starts at a compelling $96,725, which includes a $1,625 destination fee. This represents a $4,300 premium over the base inline-six model, a justifiable investment given the significant advantages of the plug-in hybrid powertrain, particularly its extended electric range and impressive fuel efficiency. My well-equipped tester, with a selection of desirable options, came in at $106,405. For any driver prioritizing dynamics, I would unequivocally recommend adding the Stormer Handling Package – it truly unlocks another dimension of driving pleasure.
For those with a penchant for even greater performance and luxury, the Autobiography trim, with its more powerful P550e powertrain, is available at $121,260. While the ultra-exclusive SV Edition Two model, priced at $182,550, caters to a very specific niche, the P460e and P550e models represent the sweet spot of this impressive lineup, offering unparalleled luxury, capability, and efficiency.
In a marketplace increasingly focused on sustainable mobility and premium experiences, the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV stands as a beacon. It’s more than just a plug-in hybrid SUV; it’s a meticulously crafted fusion of traditional British luxury, robust off-road capability, and cutting-edge electrified performance. Land Rover has indeed “done the plug-in hybrid the right way,” creating a vehicle that is not only one of the best-looking and best-riding luxury SUVs on the market but also one of the most capable and forward-thinking. For anyone seeking an advanced, high-end vehicle that excels in every facet, from daily commute to adventurous escapade, the Range Rover Sport PHEV is an undeniable top contender. Its natural blend of efficiency, luxury, and dynamic prowess positions it as a true leader in the automotive innovation of 2025.
