SimplyAbuDhabi X

Gerry McGovern Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer with the All-New Range Rover Sport New Range Rover Sport & Daniel Craig 2 0 2 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I and a grille and headlamp package that owes much to the Evoque's styling. So far, so good. Then look along the flanks and the updates continue. The vertical vents behind the front wheels remain but are now slightly angled, picking up the much steeper rake of this latest Sport's front windscreen. It all adds up to create a greater sense of urgency and gives a hint of the speeds this beast is capable of attaining. Staying with the 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' approach, the signature clam-shell bonnet and 'flying' roof stay firmly in place. The latter achieved with the clever use of slim and blacked out pillars to make the roof appear to be floating above the car with no visible means of support. It may be a simple design trick but I love it. Continuing to the back, the rear light clusters have been completely redesigned and now gleam like jewels beneath that glass 'fastback' tailgate. Again, there's a hint of the Evoque about them, which to my eyes is no bad thing, giving the Sport a much more up to the minute feel. In a way they're a bit of a treat for drivers of other four by fours, giving them a great view to enjoy as the Range Rover leaves them far behind. The improvements continue inside too. It's clear to see that the powers that be at Land Rover, (this car's parent company), have listened carefully to what their customers want and acted accordingly. As ever, the materials used are to the very highest standards but the designers have clearly gone back to the drawing board. The view from the driver's seat is now one of beautiful simplicity. It's amazing to see just how many buttons, dials and switches Land Rover was able to dispose of in the new Sport. According to them, interior clutter has been reduced by 50 per cent, leaving exactly the controls you need to enjoy the driving experience fully, without becoming distracted by those that you simply don't.