By Mabuyane Mabuza
As we celebrate South Africa’s Tourism Month in September, which promotes domestic tourism, encourages South Africans to explore their own country and highlights the importance of tourism in the economy. As a nation, we are blessed with a variety of local tourist attractions, from nature reserves and national parks to cultural and historical sites. During Tourism Month, we will highlight some vehicles that will elevate your shotleft trips as you get up, close and personal with some old and destinations and promote sustainable tourism while ensuring that the
country’s heritage is preserved for future generations. The Range Rover Velar P400e is one such vehicle.
The Car
The adulting game sometimes calls on you to be still. This can be an opportunity to derive joy from things you love such as smelling flowers and purely enjoying the beauty of cars. My recent interaction with the Range Rover Velar P400e affirmed that assertion. Being older also means my taste for cars has changed.
When the gentlemen from Land Rover’s fleet dropped the vehicle off at my home, it immediately resonated with me. Although this wasn’t my first encounter with the Velar, my appreciation for the vehicle had grown. When it first made its debut as one of the new sub Range Rover models, many, myself included, wondered what was the point.
The point is that consumers have different preferences, a wide variety to be exact. For example, a typical Range Rover Sport driver may not necessarily prefer the Range Rover Vogue (aka the Queen’s Range Rover). There was a clear need for this type of Range Rover, which occupies its own niche in the Range Rover lineup, catering to diverse needs and aspirations.
Design & Technology
The Range Rover Velar is a sleek, stylish addition to the Range Rover family, seamlessly blending design with advanced technology. Its elegant, modern design features a distinctive silhouette that sets it apart from the rest of the lineup. The Velar’s smooth lines, floating roof, and flush door handles give it a striking visual appeal that turns heads wherever it goes. In terms of technology, the Velar stands out, featuring an advanced infotainment system, intuitive controls, and a range of driver-assist features, delivering a truly modern driving experience.
The Touch Pro Duo dual-screen setup in the centre console is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, providing easy access to various vehicle settings and multimedia controls. The Velar’s emphasis on design and technology has redefined luxury SUV driving, setting a new benchmark for performance and style within the brand. It seamlessly blends the rugged capability Range Rovers are known for with a refined, urban aesthetic, making it a standout choice for those who want to make a bold statement on the road.
Interior
I’ve experienced many Range Rovers and have seen the evolution of their interiors. Fast forward to 2024, and you’re greeted by a sleek, full- screen display, featuring all the advanced technology we’ve come to expect from the brand. A simple touch on the home screen reveals a suite of options. My three go-to functions are usually the radio, Bluetooth (which I’ve recently grown to love), and, of course, the massage feature. Like other Land Rovers, the Range Rover Velar is equipped with the legendary Land Rover off-road system and air suspension. While I can’t imagine my city-loving friend taking hers for some serious bundu bashing, it’s reassuring to know that she could if the need ever arises.
The drive
On test, I had the newly introduced Velar P400e Dynamic HSE, which is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). It features both a plug-in charging flap and a fuel flap, often catching the attention of petrol attendants and other motorists. The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers 221kW, while the electric motor adds 76kW, giving you a total of 297kW of smooth, quiet power. Together, they produce an impressive combined torque of 640Nm. I like to keep things practical, so I won’t dive into sprinting stats—we’re not talking about Usain Bolt, Letsile Tebogo, or Akani Simbine here.
The Destination
The North-West would be an ideal destination for this vehicle. Driving from Gauteng—specifically the West Rand—the platinum province is just around the corner and offers a range of exclusive spots. Sun City Resort, especially the luxurious The Palace hotel, is the perfect place to park the Velar. Here, you can immerse yourself in activities, starting with a round of golf at the award-winning Gary Player course while the kids enjoy the Valley of Waves. After a gastronomic experience at The Grill Room, unwind with a selection of treatments at The Royal Spa before retreating to your room for some well-deserved relaxation.
Verdict and pricing
To be honest, I think the Velar is perfect for those whose lifestyle suits it. It’s a beautifully crafted vehicle ideal for top-end professionals with children, especially for those annual holidays. The R2.2 million price tag is worth it.
