• New Range Rover Sport HST makes global debut at 2015 New York Auto Show
• Uprated 280kW 3.0-litre V6 supercharged engine delivers extra 30kW to enhance Range Rover Sport performance line-up
• HST features distinctive exterior design and unique interior options
• Range of updates announced for 2016 Model Year Range Rover Sport

Whitley, UK, 24 March 2015 - Land Rover will present the new Range Rover Sport HST at the New York International Auto Show 2015.

The HST enhances the high performance Range Rover Sport driving experience thanks to its uprated 250kW 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine, unique chassis settings and bespoke design features.

David Mitchell, Vehicle Programme Director Range Rover Sport, said: "The HST extends our Range Rover Sport line-up giving customers even greater choice. Sitting between the existing 280kW Range Rover Sport 3.0-litre V6 supercharged and the 405kW supercharged variant, it delivers enhanced V6 performance to go with Range Rover Sport's renowned comfort and refinement."

A raft of updates to the 2016 Model Year Range Rover Sport line-up will also be showcased in New York, including the availability of a new Gesture Tailgate and the introduction of Automatic Access Height.

New Range Rover Sport HST

The bold new Range Rover Sport HST is identified by its unique exterior design and interior enhancements, which give the high performance luxury SUV a distinctive and dynamic appearance.

A striking black theme is the hallmark of the exterior design. The HST is fitted with Stealth Pack lamps front and rear, which feature non-reflective surrounds and combine with a Santorini Black contrast roof and a new spoiler to give the luxury SUV a purposeful profile.

The HST's distinctive 21-inch alloy wheels feature an exclusive dark satin grey finish helping to highlight the uprated brakes, which are identified by red brake calipers. Larger 22-inch Stealth alloy wheels are available as optional equipment.

The bonnet and front wing vents, grille and fog lamp bezels all feature a Gloss Black finish, echoed by the 'Range Rover' lettering on the leading edge of the bonnet and rear tailgate. Sculpted body-coloured lower door panels and additional vent detailing on the bumpers are also fitted.

In common with other Dynamic Range Rover Sport variants, the HST wears a red Sport badge at the rear, complemented by unique HST badging on the front wing vents.

Power comes from Land Rover's 280kW 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine, enhanced to provide an extra 30kW.

Unique chassis settings deliver an even more focused driving experience and sharper responses, without compromising the vehicle's trademark comfort and refinement. Detail changes to the suspension reduce body roll and deliver enhanced agility, while the uprated brakes feature 20-inch discs to deliver even more confidence-inspiring performance.

The HST is available with a single-range transmission, reflecting its high performance capabilities, and Land Rover's engineers have devised a unique Terrain Response set-up for the vehicle. It features a Dynamic Mode, which optimises the suspension, Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) and other electronic systems to suit on-road driving. This feature provides more controlled electronic damping and a more responsive throttle pedal, while enhancing gearshifts and steering response to match the change in vehicle character.

Inside the HST comes with eye-catching duo tone seats trimmed in luxurious Oxford Leather. In combination with a contrast fascia, all-Ebony door trims and centre console and standard Ebony headlining, they create a unique environment. The high quality leather upholstery is available in four Ebony/colour combinations, along with an all-Ebony option.

Bespoke HST badging on the dashboard, carpet mats and the TFT instrument panel highlight the luxury model's high performance focus. The sporty cues extend to Noble-plated paddle shift gear levers on the steering wheel and distinctive bright 'Sports' pedals, while the aluminium interior trim features a textured 'Sports' finish.

2016 Model Year Range Rover Sport

In addition to revealing the new HST derivative, Land Rover today announced a range of enhancements to the 2016 Model Year Range Rover Sport, with the emphasis on improved practicality and desirability.

Land Rover will also introduce stop/start technology on the SDV8 diesel engine as part of the 2016 Model Year enhancements.

All Terrain Progress Control is fitted as standard to 2016 Range Rover Sports featuring Terrain Response 2 technology, for advanced off-road capability. New Auto Access Height is introduced as standard, for improved ease of entry and exit. The system automatically lowers the vehicle to access height when it comes to a halt and a door is opened.

Practicality is also enhanced on HSE models and above, by the availability of a Gesture Tailgate, which provides hands-free operation of the tailgate by waving a foot underneath the rear of the vehicle. Twin-sensors allow customers to trigger tailgate operation from the kerbside and the system is fully compatible with a tow bar.

Customers will also benefit from an increased range of personalisation options and an extended range of accessories. A new Carbon Fibre Pack is available as a dealer fit item, which includes side vents, tailgate trim, door mirror covers, a front grille surround, fog lamp bezels and bonnet vents finished in high-gloss lacquer.

The 16MY Range Rover Sport will be available to available Q4, 2015 and prices will be announced closer to launch.

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Editors Note:
Since 1948 Land Rover has been manufacturing authentic 4x4s that represent true 'breadth of capability' across the model range. Defender, Freelander, Discovery, Discovery Sport, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque each define the world's 4x4 sectors, with 80% of this model range exported to over 170 countries.