by New Range Rover GT: The fifth family member that changes the rules
For several months, Jaguar Land Rover has been testing a low crossover with a sleek, tapered body that resembled a sedan more than a typical SUV, similar to the Polestar 4. Initially, it was thought to be the next generation Range Rover Velar. However, it turned out that the prototypes belonged to an entirely different model — a brand new, fifth member of the Range Rover family, dubbed the GT. We are showing it here for the first time.
The existing Range Rover Velar will continue to be sold unchanged in the near future, while the Range Rover GT will become a separate model. Initially, it will be offered exclusively with a fully electric powertrain, with a hybrid version arriving later. The car is based on the company’s flexible EMA platform and is clearly inspired by the future Jaguar 01.
Design and exterior
Visually, the GT shares some features with the existing Range Rover Sport, including a low front end and sharp headlights. However, it sits lower than the Sport and has a significantly more coupe-like profile. From the side, it resembles the Cadillac Celestiq and Jaguar Type 01, although only in general silhouette, as the GT is noticeably shorter and more squat than both.
An interior unlike any other Range Rover
The GT’s cabin is reminiscent of the controversial Jaguar Type 01, a sedan that has not yet been fully unveiled but has been widely previewed by the British brand. Like in that car, the GT features a striking steering wheel with thick horizontal spokes that likely contain touch-sensitive capacitive buttons. The airbag is positioned below the centerline of the steering wheel.
Other elements, such as the stalks, are identical to those used in Jaguars. Also present are a slim instrument panel display and a large central infotainment screen suspended over a floating center console. The cabin truly doesn’t resemble any other vehicle with the Range Rover badge and will undoubtedly be a major talking point for this model. JLR states that the GT will initially be sold as a four-seater, but a rear seat row will arrive later, increasing capacity to five occupants.
Official statements and prospects
According to Range Rover Managing Director Martin Limpert, “The Range Rover GT will redefine the grand tourer segment, capable of delivering the beautiful and exciting proportions of a GT, long-distance comfort, and capabilities that no conventional GT can offer.”
More details about the Range Rover GT will be announced later this year, although the brand is not yet ready to name a start date for sales and deliveries.
This move by JLR is a bold experiment that expands the traditional understanding of luxury SUVs. The emergence of a separate GT model, rather than a replacement for the existing Velar, indicates the company’s desire to occupy a niche between classic crossovers and sporty sedans. The abandonment of traditional interior design in favor of a futuristic, almost conceptual style could both attract a new audience and alienate conservative brand fans. At the same time, the gradual introduction of a hybrid version after the electric one demonstrates a cautious approach to electrification, allowing the company to adapt to different market conditions and customer preferences.
