The second-generation Land Rover Range Rover Sport (L494) marks a major technical turning point compared to its predecessor (L320) by adopting an all-aluminum architecture, allowing it to shed up to 420 kg. Positioned as the ultimate dynamic and luxurious SUV, it offers exceptional on-road and off-road performance. It received a facelift in late 2017 (2018 models) introducing new headlights, the dual touchscreen (Touch Pro Duo), and the P400e plug-in hybrid version. However, despite its very high-end positioning, the L494 suffers from a particularly bleak reliability record. Data from the TÜV Report (22.5% failure rate at 3 years), ADAC (5.8 breakdowns/1000 vehicles), and What Car? (score of 2/5, 36% breakdown rate) confirm that this model requires a colossal maintenance budget and an exte
The Range Rover Sport L494 is a paradoxical vehicle: it is one of the most desirable, luxurious, and high-performing SUVs on the market, but it is also one of the least reliable. The statistics from ADAC, the TÜV Report, and What Car? are definitive. If you are targeting a petrol engine, avoid the early 5.0 SC V8s (pre-2015) due to timing chain issues, and favor the recent inline 6-cylinders (P360/P400) or a post-2016 V8 with a meticulous maintenance history. The PHEV model (P400e) should be approached with extreme caution given the battery recalls. Golden rule: never buy this vehicle without a comprehensive and valid mechanical breakdown warranty.