No one has any doubt about the type of vehicles sold by Range Rover and its cousin Land Rover... SUVs. Their collective styling is tall, rectangular, and angular. On the high end of the models is the large Range Rover Autobiography. There are multiple sub-models with different features and powertrains. Besides the classic gas-powered engine, the Autobiography can be had with a hybrid and plug-in hybrid power combo. As mentioned above, the Autobiography has a clear and graphic Land Rover styling SUVs. It is very tall with flat sides, some side markings, and a high roofline with a rectangular look. Likewise, huge 23-inch alloy wheels add to the overall statement.

Various sub-models with different power combos are available, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Our test model had the more classic high-powered twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 producing a stout 523 horsepower tied to an all-wheel drive powertrain. An eight-speed automatic transmission handles the gear changes. Even with its substantial height and length, performance is not absent. The zero to sixty time takes only 4.3 seconds, and the top speed is 150 mph.

Because of the overall size, the interior is roomy with many luxury cues. Essentially, leather covers most of the interior surfaces of this four-passenger model. Up-to-date large video screens are found in the dash pod and in the center of the dash. A great number of functions are handled with the center console by merely touching the screen, including navigation maps, climate, seat controls, exterior cameras, eco data, etc. With the map engaged, with a touch of a button the system will tell you the nearby name and location of food establishments and gas stations.

The two rear seats provide plenty of room, and behind the driver’s front seat is a small touch video screen that provides information to the rear passenger. Multiple outlets for the air conditioning are provided, and a large sunroof stretches across the roof. Shades are available for the side windows. A large storage area is behind the middle seats and access is provided with the touch of a button to open the rear liftgate.

On the driving front, when approaching the SUV and pressing the open button, the door handles pop out and a step comes out below the door to make it easier to get into the SUV. Pressing the start button results in a relatively quiet engine. A small and easy-to-use gear lever sets the gears. In reverse, the video screen shows two camera views: around the vehicle and the back of the vehicle. On the windshield, the local speed limit, the actual speed, and the engine rpm are shown. Generally, the powerplant operates in relative silence even when pressed. Likewise, shifts from the automatic transmission are barely felt. Acceleration is instantly available. The overall ride is very smooth, and the suspension easily absorbs rough pavement. Even with its height, corners are easily handled without any tilting.

RANGE ROVER AUTOBIOGRAPHY SWB

MODEL // Large SUV, 4-passenger

POWERTRAIN // 4.4-liter twin turbocharged V-8 523 horsepower, 8-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive

PERFORMANCE // 0-60 4.3 seconds, top speed 150 mph

BASE PRICE // $166,000, as equipped $175,635