What the experts say about the 2019 Range Rover Autobiography
Two editors and a dealer weigh in.
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2019 Range Rover Autobiography
The Range Rover Autobiography is driven by moguls, movie stars, and royals decamping to the country manor. In the car world, this top-of-the-line Rover represents the holiest combination of off-road prowess and unabashed luxury.
The Range Rover Autobiography runs on a 5.0-liter, supercharged, V8 engine that delivers 518 horsepower — and that’s just the regular version. The range-topping Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic ekes 557 horsepower from its supercharged V8. The imperial SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds — impressive for its size and weight — on its way to a top speed of 130 mph. Both powertrains come in long wheelbase versions, which provide enough legroom even for a couple of NBA players. The SUV sits majestically on 21-inch wheels, but its stately looks belie its off-roading prowess, thanks to its locking rear differential and Land Rover’s Terrain Response system. Range Rover’s most upscale machine thrives in inclement weather, fords up to 2 feet of water with confidence, and tows more than 7,700 pounds when properly equipped. Its smooth ride feels insulated from the world, whether scaling a mountain or following a winding road.
The two-row SUV seats five adults in supreme comfort on perforated Semi-Aniline leather, especially when the 10-color ambient lighting system, automatic four-zone climate control, and 24-way heated and cooled, massage front seats are in use. All Autobiography models come with Land Rover’s Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with two 10-inch touch screens, as well as Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, USB ports, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and a 29-speaker Meridian sound system. Buyers can add a rear-seat entertainment system, a Meriden audio system with 19 or 29 speakers, and an Activity Key worn on the wrist to serve as a substitute key fob on outdoor adventures. The long wheelbase versions of the Autobiography and SVAutobiography come with a rear-seat entertainment unit and a refrigerated center console, respectively.
Neither of the two federal safety ratings agencies test luxury cars like the Range Rover. All models come with a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional equipment includes a head-up display, a surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, park assist, traffic sign recognition, and driver drowsiness monitoring. A clear exit monitor alerts rear-seat passengers to approaching vehicles before they exit.
The 2019 Range Rover Autobiography delivers 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Those numbers fall to 13/19 city/ highway for the SVAutobiography edition.
It starts at $143,000. The long-wheelbase Autobiography trim starts at $149,500. The Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic and its long-wheelbase version begin at $178,500 and $209,500, respectively.
What the experts say
Stage presence
“The Range Rover Autobiography is a premium luxury vehicle first, a capable off-roader second. As strikingly attractive as it is substantial (Hollywood calls that “stage presence”), the largest Land Rover boasts gorgeous interior appointments — all designed to pamper occupants — within its lightweight aluminum skin. While the standard supercharged V8 provides more than ample power, and standard air suspension delivers a blissful ride, it’s the legendary off-road aptitude of the renowned British automaker that ensures it will arrive at its destination with or without a paved route.” — Michael Harley, executive editor at Kelley Blue Book
Pinnacle luxury
“While standard with the sorts of features that empowers you to be able to climb mountains, and feel like royalty while doing so, the Range Rover Autobiography is the penultimate configuration of this rolling estate. As much as the refined interior might make you want to be chauffeured to your daily appointments, you will want to drive the Autobiography’s standard 518-horsepower, supercharged, V8 engine for your own hands-on enjoyment. With the understated luxury presented by the Range Rover’s classic design, even the most advanced features are presented with an elegance befitting the Queen herself.” — Matt Phillips, senior sales specialist at Land Rover Sudbury
Unmatched capability
“If you think a traditional Range Rover is expensive, try it on with the Autobiography trim, which has a starting price of $143,000 — and that’s before the $1,295 destination fee. It’s part of a growing trend of automakers taking their priciest vehicles and adding even more luxury appointments. It’s mostly about creature comforts like ambient lighting, four-zone climate control, a panoramic moonroof. A 1,700-watt Meridian Signature Surround Sound System also is available. The good news is that it delivers a luxurious package competitive with its peers but with unmatched Range Rover capability. You may as well spend an extra $6,500 to get the longer wheelbase version so at least there’s more room in the backseat.” — Carly Schaffner, managing editor at Trucks.com
