The 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV: Mastering the Art of Sustainable Luxury
In the dynamic landscape of 2025, where automotive innovation races to meet the twin demands of exhilarating performance and environmental consciousness, the 2025 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV emerges not just as a contender, but as a definitive statement. This isn’t merely an update; it’s a meticulously engineered evolution, redefining what a luxury plug-in SUV can truly embody. Having spent considerable time behind the wheel, navigating both bustling cityscapes and serene backroads, it’s clear that Land Rover has delivered a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that doesn’t just promise, but profoundly delivers on the vision of sustainable luxury.
From the very first drive, the Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV distinguishes itself. My initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding its exceptional fuel economy. Over the first hundred miles, with strategic charging, the trip computer impressively reported an average of 209.6 mpg. This wasn’t a fluke, but rather a testament to a brilliantly executed PHEV system, one that genuinely leverages its electric capabilities. A significant portion of those miles were logged purely on electric power, a feat made possible by two full charges each contributing
at least 50 miles of range. This is precisely how a plug-in hybrid should operate: seamlessly integrating electric drive into daily use, wrapped in the Range Rover Sport’s unmistakably masculine aesthetics and formidable off-road prowess.
The Electric Heartbeat: A PHEV Done Right
Too often, plug-in hybrids disappoint with their limited electric power, forcing the gasoline engine to kick in prematurely, even during modest acceleration or at moderate highway speeds. Their batteries, too, frequently fall short of providing a genuinely useful range. The 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV, however, largely circumvents these common pitfalls, proving itself a standout in the premium hybrid vehicle segment.
My test vehicle, the P460e, represents the more accessible of the two PHEV powertrains. Its 105-kilowatt (140-horsepower) electric motor, cleverly integrated between the engine and transmission, may not sound like a gargantuan output on paper for an SUV weighing in at a substantial 5,860 pounds. Yet, in practice, it provides more than adequate thrust. Crucially, it’s entirely capable of keeping pace with urban traffic and effortlessly reaching highway speeds without requiring the intervention of the combustion engine. This capability means you can genuinely drive this substantial machine as an EV for the vast majority of your daily commutes and errands.
The vehicle defaults intelligently to EV mode upon startup, a thoughtful design choice that prioritizes electric efficiency. The engine remains dormant until the battery charge is depleted or the throttle pedal is depressed beyond a distinct detent, signaling the need for maximum power. My initial 101 miles perfectly illustrated this, with the gasoline engine only activating when I deliberately switched into Hybrid mode. For those planning longer journeys or wanting to preserve electric range for urban zones, the available Save mode intelligently maintains the battery’s current charge level, ready for later deployment. This level of control and thoughtful integration truly elevates the electric SUV performance and daily utility of the Range Rover Sport PHEV.
Central to this impressive electric capability is a large 31.8-kilowatt-hour battery. This generous capacity translates into an EPA-rated 53 miles of electric range, a figure I found to be consistently achievable, if not surpassable, with the onboard computer often indicating 54 to 58 miles on a full charge. For most American commutes, this means the opportunity to complete daily drives without consuming a single drop of gasoline. This level of pure electric range is a game-changer, significantly reducing your carbon footprint and daily operating costs, positioning the Range Rover Sport as a truly sustainable luxury car.
Unleashing the Combined Force: Hybrid Performance
While the electric mode handles daily tasks with aplomb, there are times when maximum power is desired. Switching to Hybrid mode awakens the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, which then works in seamless concert with the electric motor. The result is a formidable combined output of 454 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. The inline-six makes its presence known with a deep, refined thrum—a far more sophisticated note than the typical V6 often found in this class. Power delivery is instantaneous, a direct benefit of the electric motor’s immediate torque, which also masterfully fills any gaps during the smooth and responsive shifts of the eight-speed automatic transmission. This potent combination propels the heavy SUV from 0-60 mph in a swift 5.3 seconds, an impressive sprint for a vehicle of its stature.
For those with an insatiable appetite for even more performance, the step-up P550e plug-in hybrid powertrain is available, boosting output to a staggering 542 horsepower and shaving the 0-60 mph time down to a blistering 4.7 seconds, thanks to an even larger 218-hp electric motor. This truly demonstrates Range Rover’s commitment to offering choices that cater to diverse performance needs within the next-gen hybrid SUVs segment.
Naturally, engaging the gasoline engine has implications for efficiency. While running purely on gas, the EPA rates the P460e at 21 mpg city, 22 highway, and 21 combined. After my dedicated electric driving, I embarked on another 110 miles in Hybrid mode, observing the fuel economy settle around 36.2 mpg. While a drop from the initial triple-digit figure, this is still remarkably efficient for such a powerful and weighty SUV, and it underscores the inherent PHEV efficiency benefits when the system is allowed to operate as intended, with regular charging.
A Ride Redefined: Dynamics and Unrivaled Comfort
One of the few dynamic trade-offs of the plug-in hybrid system is the additional weight it imposes, approximately 800 pounds. This added mass subtly shifts the Range Rover Sport’s character, meaning it’s not quite the agile, track-focused “sporty” luxury crossover that some past generations might have aspired to be. There’s a noticeable, albeit controlled, lean in turns, a touch of understeer at the limit, and only modest road feel transmitted through the otherwise weighty steering.
However, where the Range Rover Sport truly excels, to a degree that redefines expectations, is in its ride quality. My tester, equipped with optional 285/45R22 Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires, worked in perfect harmony with the standard air suspension and adaptive dampers to almost entirely nullify road imperfections. Bumps, undulations, and even significant potholes simply melt away beneath the vehicle, leaving occupants in a serene, isolated cabin. This isn’t merely an exceptional ride for an SUV; it’s a level of plushness and composure that would be entirely at home in a flagship luxury sedan like a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This truly elevates the Range Rover ownership experience for those who prioritize comfort above all else.
For buyers who crave a more direct and engaging handling experience, Land Rover offers compelling alternatives. The $7,185 Stormer Handling Package is a transformative option, adding active anti-roll bars powered by the sophisticated 48-volt electrical system. These bars actively counteract body roll, keeping the vehicle flatter through corners. Complementing this is rear-axle steering, capable of turning the rear wheels up to 7.3 degrees opposite the fronts, which dramatically reduces the turning circle at low speeds for enhanced maneuverability and significantly boosts stability during high-speed cornering. This suite of advanced automotive technology allows the driver to dial in a truly dynamic feel, mitigating the effects of the PHEV’s added mass.
Beyond the Pavement: Command Over Any Terrain
The sophisticated air suspension isn’t just about on-road comfort; it’s also the key to the Range Rover Sport’s legendary off-road capability. The system provides a standard ground clearance of 8.5 inches, but engaging Off-Road mode intelligently raises the vehicle to a formidable 10.8 inches, offering crucial clearance over challenging obstacles. For easier entry and exit, or when loading cargo, the vehicle can also gracefully lower itself by two inches.
Beyond the adjustable clearance, a host of high-end off-road SUV features underscore its prowess. Standard all-wheel drive, paired with a locking center differential, ensures maximum traction. An available two-speed transfer case offers low-range gearing for demanding climbs and descents. Hill descent control manages steep grades with precision, while a low-speed cruise control system allows drivers to set a steady pace from 1.8 to 19 mph, freeing them to focus on steering inputs over technical terrain.
The heart of its off-road intelligence lies in the Terrain Response 2 system, which automatically adapts vehicle systems—from throttle response to transmission shifts and differential settings—to suit various surfaces. Specific modes like Mud Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, Wade (for water crossings), and Grass Gravel Snow further tailor the vehicle’s behavior for optimal performance in diverse conditions. While the relatively short front and rear overhangs inherently aid in approach and departure angles, it’s worth noting that the standard all-season tires, while excellent for road comfort, will naturally find their limits when truly digging into deep mud or loose sand. For extreme adventurers, a dedicated off-road tire would be a wise upgrade.
The Sanctuary Within: Interior Luxury and Intuitive Technology
Stepping into the cockpit of the 2025 Range Rover Sport is an experience in refined luxury that perfectly complements its exceptional ride quality. The interior design strikes a harmonious balance between opulent comfort and modern minimalism. Standard luxury features on the Dynamic SE include sumptuous Windsor leather upholstery, 20-way power-adjustable front seats that are both heated and ventilated, and a heated steering wheel, ensuring comfort in any climate. My test model further elevated this with the optional 19-speaker, 800-watt Meridian audio system ($1,200), delivering concert-hall quality sound, and heated and ventilated outboard rear seats ($300), extending the comfort to all passengers. The elegant leather is tastefully juxtaposed with attractive charcoal gray fabric on the door panels, sophisticated piano black trim adorning the center console, and subtle touches of metallic trim, creating a truly sophisticated ambiance indicative of luxury SUV interior design.
Technologically, the cabin is a marvel of integration. A crisp 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster provides customizable driver information, while a stunning 13.1-inch Pivi Pro infotainment touchscreen dominates the center stack. This system is packed with features, including wireless smartphone charging, satellite radio, seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and Amazon Alexa connectivity, ensuring you’re always connected and entertained.
However, this reliance on technology, while creating an undeniably clean and uncluttered aesthetic, also presents a slight ergonomic challenge. The touchscreen has absorbed almost all vehicle controls, including vital climate settings. While the visual appeal is undeniable, it means simple adjustments often require delving into menu structures that, in a vehicle of this caliber, one might prefer to access via dedicated physical buttons. It’s a design choice that prioritizes form, but occasionally at the expense of immediate function. And while Land Rover has made significant strides in electronic reliability, the brand’s historical reputation for “electronic gremlins” remains a subtle undercurrent, reminding us to appreciate the current generation’s robust performance.
Value Proposition in 2025: Pricing and Purpose
The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV starts at a compelling $96,725, which includes a $1,625 destination fee. This represents a premium of $4,300 over the base inline-six variant, a cost that is easily justified by the significant long-term fuel savings, reduced emissions, and enhanced versatility offered by the plug-in hybrid system.
My heavily optioned tester, showcasing some of the desirable enhancements, came in at $106,405. For those who enjoy spirited driving or seek the ultimate in chassis control, I would wholeheartedly recommend adding the Stormer Handling Package; it truly unlocks another dimension of the vehicle’s dynamic capabilities. For buyers who prioritize outright power and an even more exclusive Range Rover ownership experience, the move up to the Autobiography trim with its more potent P550e powertrain at $121,260 presents a compelling proposition. While the top-tier SV Edition Two model, with its eye-watering $182,550 price tag, offers unparalleled exclusivity and performance, it moves into a realm where justification becomes more about desire than practical value for most.
In conclusion, both Range Rover Sport PHEV choices—the P460e and the P550e—represent outstanding investments. This is a plug-in hybrid vehicle designed and executed with precision and purpose, effectively addressing the traditional compromises associated with the technology. It’s wrapped in one of the market’s most striking designs, delivers an absolutely sublime ride quality, and retains the legendary on- and off-road capabilities for which the Range Rover brand is renowned. In 2025, the Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE PHEV isn’t just another luxury SUV; it’s a meticulously crafted blend of power, efficiency, and timeless sophistication that confidently points towards the future of premium mobility.
