Redefining Luxury: An Expert Review of the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV
As an automotive expert navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of luxury vehicles, few moments are as telling as witnessing a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) genuinely live up to its promise. My recent extended drive in the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV, specifically the P460e variant, offered precisely such an experience. With over 100 miles under its belt, the trip computer displayed an astonishing 209.6 mpg average. This isn’t mere fantasy; it’s a testament to intelligent engineering. Through two strategic recharges, each contributing at least 50 miles of pure electric driving, a significant portion of those initial miles were traversed without burning a single drop of gasoline. This, unequivocally, is how a plug-in hybrid should function, delivering tangible efficiency wrapped in the Range Rover Sport’s unmistakable masculine aesthetics and formidable high-end off-road capability.
The Electrified Heart: A Deep Dive into the P460e Powertrain
In a market increasingly saturated with electrified options, the Achilles’ heel of many plug-in hybrids has been their often-underpowered electric motors or insufficient battery capacity. These shortcomings typically manifest as an eager internal combustion engine kicking in too early, whether due to aggressive throttle input or reaching a modest freeway
speed, thereby undermining the EV promise. The 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV largely sidesteps these common pitfalls.
I was behind the wheel of the P460e, the more accessible of the two available PHEV powertrains. Its 105-kilowatt (140-horsepower) electric motor, cleverly integrated between the engine and transmission, may not sound like a colossal figure when tasked with propelling nearly 5,900 pounds of premium SUV. Yet, in practice, it provides more than adequate thrust for maintaining pace with urban traffic and effortlessly cruising up to prevailing freeway speeds. This is not a hesitant EV mode; it’s a confident, quiet propulsion system.
Crucially, the vehicle defaults to EV mode, maintaining its electric composure unless the battery charge is depleted or the throttle pedal is deliberately pushed past a specific detent, signaling a demand for maximum power. During my initial 101 electric miles, the sophisticated engine management system ensured the gasoline engine remained dormant, only activating when I intentionally switched to Hybrid mode. For those planning longer journeys, an intelligent Save mode allows drivers to preserve the battery charge for later use, perhaps for navigating emission-restricted city centers or simply enjoying silent urban commutes.
The cornerstone of this impressive electric performance is the substantial 31.8-kilowatt-hour battery. This generous capacity translates into an EPA-rated electric range of 53 miles. My own observations validated this, with the onboard computer indicating 54 and 58 miles of range after two full charges. For the vast majority of daily commutes and routine errands, this range is more than sufficient, effectively transforming this formidable SUV into a zero-emission electric vehicle for everyday driving – a compelling argument for sustainable luxury vehicles without range anxiety. This blend of premium hybrid technology truly sets a new benchmark.
Unleashing Power: Performance That Commands Attention
While the electric motor ably handles daily duties, the true might of the 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV unfurls when the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine joins the fray. In Hybrid mode, the motor and engine collaborate seamlessly, delivering a robust 454 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. The engine’s initial start is a deep, refined thrum, far more melodious and sophisticated than the typical V6 often found in this segment. Power delivery is swift and immediate, a direct benefit of the electric motor’s instantaneous torque, which also masterfully fills any torque gaps during shifts of the buttery-smooth and highly responsive eight-speed automatic transmission.
This combined power enables the heavy SUV to sprint from 0-60 mph in a swift 5.3 seconds. For those with an insatiable appetite for power, the step-up P550e plug-in hybrid powertrain elevates output to an impressive 542 horsepower, reducing the 0-60 mph time to a blistering 4.7 seconds, thanks to its even larger 218-hp electric motor. This level of luxury SUV performance solidifies the Range Rover Sport’s position among the segment’s elite.
However, leveraging the full might of the gasoline engine naturally impacts fuel efficiency. When operating solely on gasoline, the P460e is EPA-rated at 21 mpg city, 22 highway, and 21 combined. After my extended electric driving stint, I spent another 110 miles in Hybrid mode, observing the fuel economy settle at a still-respectable 36.2 mpg. Considering the vehicle’s substantial power and weight, this remains a highly efficient figure, with the potential for even greater efficiency with more frequent charging opportunities. This offers a pragmatic approach to fuel efficiency in a luxury SUV.
Masterful Dynamics: Ride Comfort Meets Handling Prowess
The integration of the plug-in hybrid system introduces approximately 800 pounds of additional weight to the Range Rover Sport, a factor that naturally influences its dynamic character. This isn’t the lithe, overtly sporty luxury crossover of previous generations. In its standard configuration, some body lean is noticeable in turns, along with a degree of understeer and only modest grip, communicated through a weighty but somewhat muted steering feel.
Yet, to dwell solely on this aspect would be to miss the broader, more profound dynamic achievement: the 2025 Range Rover Sport delivers one of the most sublime rides available in any SUV today. My test vehicle, equipped with optional 285/45R22 Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires, worked in concert with the standard air suspension and adaptive dampers to virtually erase road imperfections. Bumps and undulations are absorbed with an uncanny poise, isolating occupants from the harsh realities of uneven pavement. This isn’t merely an excellent ride for an SUV; it rivals the plush serenity expected from ultra-luxury sedans like a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, epitomizing advanced driver assistance systems that contribute to overall comfort and safety.
For discerning buyers prioritizing sharper handling dynamics, Land Rover offers a compelling solution: the $7,185 Stormer Handling Package. This comprehensive upgrade introduces active anti-roll bars, powered by a sophisticated 48-volt electrical system, and rear-axle steering capable of turning the rear wheels up to 7.3 degrees opposite to the fronts. The active anti-roll bars dramatically enhance body control, mitigating lean during spirited cornering, while the rear-axle steering provides a dual benefit: a noticeably shorter turning circle for enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces and increased stability during high-speed cornering. This package transforms the vehicle’s athleticism, effectively addressing the dynamic downside imposed by the PHEV’s added mass, showcasing sophisticated torque vectoring technology principles at play.
Uncharted Territories: Off-Road Capability Beyond Compare
A Range Rover isn’t truly a Range Rover without exceptional off-road prowess, and the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV maintains this storied tradition. The standard air suspension is not merely for comfort; it’s a cornerstone of its impressive off-road capability. It provides a generous 8.5 inches of ground clearance in its default setting, which can be further elevated to 10.8 inches in Off-Road mode, ensuring ample clearance over challenging obstacles. Conversely, for ease of entry, exit, or loading cargo, the vehicle can be lowered by two inches.
Beyond adjustable ride height, the Range Rover Sport is equipped with a suite of next-gen SUV technology designed for traversing diverse terrains. Standard all-wheel drive, paired with a locking center differential, ensures maximum traction. An available two-speed transfer case provides a crucial low-range gearing for tackling steep inclines and descents with precise control. Hill descent control and a low-speed cruise control system (operable from 1.8 to 19 mph) further simplify challenging off-road scenarios.
The sophisticated Terrain Response 2 system stands out as a genuine marvel. It automatically adapts various vehicle systems—including engine response, transmission, differential settings, and suspension—to optimize performance for different surfaces. Drivers can also manually select specifically tailored modes such as Mud Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, Wade, and Grass Gravel Snow. Short front and rear overhangs are also instrumental in enhancing approach and departure angles, crucial for preventing scrapes in rugged environments. While the all-season Pirelli tires are excellent for on-road comfort, dedicated off-road tires would naturally offer superior grip in deep mud or loose sand, a consideration for those planning truly extreme expeditions. This robust combination embodies off-road capability in luxury vehicles.
A Sanctuary of Innovation: Interior and Technology
Stepping into the cockpit of the 2025 Range Rover Sport is an experience of refined luxury that perfectly complements its exceptional ride quality. The SEL Dynamic trim, in particular, comes equipped with an array of standard luxury features that create an inviting and opulent atmosphere. Windsor leather upholstery, known for its supple texture and durability, envelops the cabin. The 20-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats offer unparalleled comfort and customization, while a heated steering wheel adds a touch of indulgence on colder mornings. My test model further elevated this experience with an optional 19-speaker, 800-watt Meridian audio system ($1,200), delivering concert-hall-quality sound, and heated and ventilated outboard rear seats ($300), ensuring passenger comfort is never an afterthought. The rich leather is tastefully juxtaposed with elegant charcoal gray fabric accents on the door panels, sophisticated piano black trim on the center console, and subtle metallic brightwork, creating a visually harmonious and tactilely pleasing environment. This attention to detail defines automotive interior design.
The vehicle’s technological suite is equally impressive, centered around a large 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster that provides clear, customizable driving information, and a vibrant 13.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. Standard features include wireless smartphone charging, satellite radio, seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and convenient Amazon Alexa connectivity. The minimalist dashboard design, achieved by absorbing nearly all controls into the touchscreen—including climate settings—contributes to a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.
However, this design choice, while visually appealing, presents a practical trade-off. Essential functions that typically warrant a physical button now require navigating through touchscreen menus. While the system is generally intuitive, this reliance on the touchscreen for critical controls can be distracting, especially given Land Rover’s historical reputation for occasional electronic gremlins. In a luxury vehicle where seamless user experience is paramount, a balanced approach with a few tactile controls for frequently used functions might enhance usability and driver focus.
The Investment: Pricing and Value Proposition
The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV starts at a discerning price point of $96,725, which includes a $1,625 destination fee. This represents a $4,300 premium over the base inline-six-only version, a justifiable cost for the enhanced efficiency and silent electric driving capability. My comprehensively equipped test vehicle, with a selection of desirable options, retailed for $106,405.
From an expert perspective, adding the Stormer Handling Package is a highly recommended investment for anyone who appreciates dynamic driving. It fundamentally transforms the vehicle’s agility and body control, making it feel significantly more composed and engaging despite its substantial weight. For those desiring the pinnacle of Range Rover Sport performance and luxury, the Autobiography trim, with its more potent P550e powertrain, priced at $121,260, presents a compelling upgrade. While the extreme performance and bespoke exclusivity of the $182,550 SV Edition Two model is undeniably appealing, its value proposition for most buyers is harder to justify against the already exceptional capabilities of the P460e and P550e.
Regardless of the chosen configuration, either Range Rover Sport PHEV variant represents a genuinely excellent choice. This is a plug-in hybrid executed with precision and intent, delivering on its promise of efficiency without compromising on the core tenets of the Range Rover experience. The vehicle itself stands as one of the most aesthetically pleasing, sumptuously riding, and supremely capable on- and off-roaders currently available on the market. It’s a statement of sustainable luxury vehicle intent, meticulously crafted to meet the demands of the modern discerning driver. The 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV is not just another SUV; it’s a vision for the future of luxury mobility, intelligently combining power, efficiency, and peerless capability.
