Land Rover Range Rover L322 Supercharged V8
The third-generation Range Rover, known by its L322 chassis code, was one of the most significant luxury SUVs ever produced. Launched in 2002, it elevated the Range Rover from a premium off-roader to a genuine rival for luxury saloons from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Jaguar, while retaining the legendary off-road capability that defined the nameplate.
The L322's development was complicated by corporate upheaval. Design work began under BMW ownership, using BMW engines (the 4.4-litre V8 and 3.0-litre diesel from the 7 Series), but was completed under Ford after BMW sold Land Rover in 2000. The result was a vehicle that blended German engineering precision with British luxury and off-road expertise.
A major facelift in 2005 introduced Jaguar-sourced engines: a naturally aspirated 4.4-litre V8 and, most significantly, a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 producing 510 bhp. This supercharged engine transformed the Range Rover into a genuinely rapid vehicle, capable of dispatching 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds despite weighing nearly 2.7 tonnes.
The interior set new standards for the SUV class. Soft-touch leather, real wood veneers, deep-pile carpets, and sophisticated climate control created an environment that rivalled dedicated luxury saloons. The rear seats offered generous legroom and could be adjusted for recline. Later models added sophisticated infotainment with touchscreen navigation and premium audio systems.
Off-road capability was enhanced by the Terrain Response system, introduced on the 2005 facelift. This allowed the driver to select from five terrain modes — general, grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, sand, and rock crawl — with the electronic systems adjusting throttle response, gearbox behaviour, differential locks, and traction control to suit the conditions. The air suspension provided height adjustment for both ground clearance and easy loading.
The L322 was produced for a decade, an unusually long production run that reflected both its fundamental excellence and the complexity of developing its successor. Over that time, it established the Range Rover as a credible alternative to traditional luxury saloons and laid the groundwork for the even more refined L405 that followed.
Today, the L322 offers remarkable luxury for its price on the used market, though potential buyers should be aware that running costs remain high and the complexity of its systems can lead to expensive repairs.
The L322 is a complex vehicle and cheap examples are often expensive to own. Air suspension is the most common failure point — compressors, air bags, and height sensors all fail and are expensive to replace. The BMW-era 4.4 V8 suffers from timing chain guide wear (an expensive engine-out job). The Jaguar 5.0L V8 is more reliable but the supercharger nose cone bearing can fail. Check for coolant leaks, particularly on BMW-engine cars. Electrical gremlins are common — test all systems. Transfer case and differential oil leaks are frequent. The ZF gearbox generally holds up well if serviced regularly. Brake discs and pads are expensive. Full Land Rover service history dramatically affects value. Budget for substantial running costs regardless of purchase price.
Development began under BMW ownership, completed under Ford. Initial BMW engines replaced by Jaguar units in 2005 facelift. Supercharged 5.0L V8 introduced 2009. Terrain Response system added 2005. Built at Solihull. Produced for 10 years (2002-2012).