JAGUAR Land Rover's (JLR) Range Rover Velar is one of those vehicles that have been made to fill in a sweet spot.
It has a balanced mix of the brand's new sporty design language and the familiar luxury-yet-rugged image.
Then, there's the expanded utility of its longer body that results in a larger cabin space.
Pepper the vehicle with all the latest technology and luxury comfort features and the sport utility vehicle (SUV) is very much a "one-stop" machine.
The fourth model in the Range Rover line, it is a fairly new model with the first edition unveiled in 2017.
The 2023-2024 facelift doesn't stray far from the Velar's original DNA and is, thus, more of a features upgrade.
TINY TWEAKS
Available in three variants - H, L and M Specs - the all-wheel drive (AWD) 2024 L560 Range Rover Velar comes with a refreshed radiator grille design, head lamps and tail lamps for a bolder and more contemporary look.
The new aesthetics are accompanied by super-slim pixel LED headlights with jewel-like Signature daytime running lights for the L Spec variant. At the rear are 3D LED taillights and a new lower rear bumper design.
Adaptive Dynamics is standard on the H Spec and L Spec variants with a selectable specific calibration for off-road driving. Advanced chassis and suspensions, including Electronic Air Suspension and Adaptive Dynamics and Configurable Dynamics, add to the on-road performance and agility.
The two new exterior colours are Metallic Varesine Blue and Premium Metallic Zadar Grey.
The main highlight of the cabin is the next-gen Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen as the main terminal control.
The system permits wireless smartphone connectivity and over-the-air updates and has wireless device charging.
External noise is kept out of the cabin through its active road noise cancellation technology. The advanced system calculates an audio signal to replay over the Meridian speakers to reduce the decibel level inside the car. It also aims to help reduce fatigue levels when driving caused by exposure to low-frequency noise for extended periods.
The virtual buttons for climate, seating, audio volume and Terrain Response modes are always visible on each side of the screen via new sidebars, featuring multi-functional sliding controls on either side.
There's also the cabin air purification plus system and for the L Spec, a configurable cabin lighting with over 30 interior colours to choose from.
The M and H Specs are priced at RM638,800 and RM698,800, respectively, while L Spec is priced from RM739,800.
LITTLE LUXURIES
The new Velar is slightly sportier than its pre-facelift model. But could you tell?
It's a bit tricky to separate what is old and new aesthetically with the latest Velar. Only those familiar with the initial design will be able to distinctively tell what the latest updates are.
Otherwise, the two look very much similar. Not that it matters since the main elements remain.
It is still a cross between the brand's trademark ruggedness and its more contemporary design take. It has a very unisex vibe and offers a perfect introduction to the Range Rover line.
Given what the brand is known for, there is no question as to how well it handles various terrains. But that's not the reason why you would want a Velar.
Both the driving platform and powerful engine are directed towards the comfort it offers. With ample passenger space and some comfortable seats, all that's left is to call up the chair massage feature (for front passengers), set a theme and you're good to go.
It is one of the most comfortable vehicles to be in and perhaps only second to more luxurious and pricier models.
Usually, this writer doesn't fancy handling large vehicles too often but the Velar does a great job in easing this concern.
Due to its responsiveness, there are times one may forget how large the Velar is.
The longer body means the five-seater has a lot of luggage room, which makes it a perfect travel companion for long journeys.
VERDICT
Much like the initial model, the refreshed Velar is every bit as capable and appealing as the predecessor, just slightly sportier and updated.
Cabin comfort remains a core element so don't go expecting anything wildly different in that aspect.
There is a right amount of new for first-time customers while present owners need not worry that they're missing out.
What will be surprising for first-timers is how manoeuvrable the vehicle is for its size.
The Velar is large but not to the extent of its pricier siblings while similarly, it offers a bit of extra rear room than the Evoque thanks to the longer body.
There is also its sleeker design when compared to the other Range Rovers minus the Evoque, without sacrificing the trademark masculine aesthetic.
The Velar is the best place to start getting acquainted with the modern-day Range Rovers, while also making it a viable replacement option for long-time brand loyalists looking for a good middle ground at a comfortable price point.