Ever since the SUV segment started gaining popularity in India, the majority of manufacturers have begun putting more effort into it instead of reviving the sedan section. Either they are inclined towards introducing new products or making major updates to the existing ones to attract customers. To fulfill most of the expectations, and give a proper value-for-money product, top carmaker Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) jumped at the right time and gave a decent makeover to its flagship SUV Velar after six years since release.
The company launched the facelift avatar of one of its hot-selling products in September last year at the starting price of Rs 94.3 lakh (ex-showroom). The king-size SUV has made some exceptional updates, offering top-notch features, improved road appearance, decent ground clearance, off-road capabilities, and whatnot.
Recently, we got the opportunity to sit behind the steering wheel of the updated Velar and test if all the claims made by the brand are there or not. To note, we have driven the car for quite a decent kilometers and jotted down some pointers, which might help you in case if you are planning to purchase one. You can thank us later!
Improved Design
One of the important and first things that catches everyone’s attention is style and road appearance, and undoubtedly the updated Velar has effortlessly topped the list in this area. It comes with a better-than-before front fascia, featuring a new pixel LED headlight setup with integrated signature LED DRLs, and revamped rear bumpers, which are complimented by redesigned tail lamps.
As the generation remains the same, the SUV continues to flaunt the same size as the previous model, allowing the customers to have the same comfort with unbeatable charm. The head-turning elements also did not fade, all thanks to a flat huge bonnet, 20-inch improved alloy wheel, smartly sculpted body lines, and aggressive yet wild road appearance.
Premium Class Interior
The Velar continues to offer sport flush door handles, which welcome you as soon as the smart key is spotted nearby. The major update has been given from the inside as the company has reduced the clutter by minimizing the physical buttons, which makes it look more premium and sophisticated. It features an improved dual-tone dashboard that adds further charm to the cockpit.
Now, the Velar comes with a brand-new 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system, which is supported by all car connect technology. It also offers wireless Android, Apple, and Auto Carplay and tons of other advanced features.
Robust Features
The SUV has been equipped with some of the advanced and rare features. The list includes four-zone climate control, 360-degree cameras with 3D dynamic guidelines, 14-way driver memory front seats with rear power recline with heating ventilation option on board, high-quality, Meridian sound system, powered tailgate, and wireless charging among others.
The other notable features include the inbuilt air purification system, which allows all the occupants to breathe fresh air no matter how polluted the air is flowing outside.
Engine and Power
Under the hood, the SUV is powered by a trusted 2.0-litre petrol engine, which generates a max power of 246 bhp and an impressive 365 Nm of peak torque. For diesel lovers, the vehicle is also available in a 2.0-litre Ingenium unit, which churns out max output of 201 bhp 420 Nm peak torque. These units are mated with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Improved Safety
It feels good to see that the brand has invested good efforts in terms of safety and built quality. The model now is equipped with an array of driver-assist systems, including adaptive cruise control, driver condition monitor system, both-ends parking aid, wade sensing blind spot monitoring system, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and the list goes on. In case of any mishap, the car has multiple airbags, which leaves no stone unturned to provide uncompromised safety.
Here’s What We Felt About RR Velar Facelift
As we mentioned at the start of the article, we had driven the car for some quite decent kilometers and even took it to some long route to test its comfort level. One thing where we can bet is that the front passengers had the best time, while the rear occupants complained about the lack of headroom. Is it good to blame the car for this or their 6ft height? You decide!
When it comes to “kitna deti hai”, if it’s being driven sophisticatedly, it can provide an impressive more than 15 kmpl on diesel.
Now, here comes the final verdict, whether the SUV is worth spending lakhs or not. Frankly speaking, If you fall under the rare category of customers, who can afford it, then it is not a bad deal. The car checks all the boxes, which have been claimed by the company. Even we can give some bonus points for its dominating road appearance that will surely land you some unwanted attention!
