The debut of the Range Rover Velar took place in the summer of 2017, reviving a moniker previously associated solely with a pre-production prototype from 1969.
The global market witnessed a surge in demand for premium SUVs in 2017. At that time, Range Rover boasted an extensive model range, spanning from the compact Evoque to the luxurious Land Rover Range Rover, with the Range Rover Sport filling the gap in between. The Velar, however, distinguished itself from its larger counterparts by lacking a low-range transfer case.
Positioned between the Evoque and Range Rover Sport, the Velar showcased LED headlamps and featured a steeply angled A-pillar combined with a truncated roofline, giving the impression of a Sport variant with its roofline dramatically lowered. This design choice resulted in more compact side windows. A distinctive security feature was the flush-mounted door handles, which only extended when the vehicle was unlocked, preventing potential tampering at traffic lights.
The interior accommodated five adults comfortably. Depending on the specification level, the dashboard could be equipped with up to three screens: a TFT display for the instrument panel, an infotainment system screen, and a separate climate control interface.
Powering the Velar were various engine options, including both diesel and gasoline configurations with either four or six cylinders, all paired with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission.