Fourteen years have elapsed since I last steered a Range Rover Sport, and through this time it has evolved in both subtle and spectacular ways. My affection for Range Rovers runs deep, tracing back to the early 2000s Series II P38, a model that cemented the brand’s allure in my memory. In recent reviews, you may have seen my Land Rover Defender postings, which only intensified that affinity. So, I was genuinely amazed to discover a Plug-In Hybrid option in this latest generation Range Rover Sport, proving that the Range Rover family still knows how to keep things fresh.

The PHEV proposition, in my view, represents the best of both worlds of electric propulsion for everyday life and a robust gas option for those longer sojourns. The Range Rover Sport PHEV embodies this duality with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, delivering a commanding 542 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 mph arrives in under five seconds, evidence to its refined power delivery given its substantial mass. Even with roughly 800 pounds more heft than the non-PHEV variant, the acceleration remains startlingly smooth.

Admittedly, my 100% work-from-home life has limited the opportunity to validate the EPA-estimated 53 miles of pure electric range in daily life. In practice, the PHEV’s battery management favored electric propulsion across its three different modes (EV, Hybrid, or Gas-only), a behavior that underscored the vehicle’s EV-first character. On a day marked for return, and a full 100% charged and ready;  by running a quick 3-mile errand and attempting use the Gas Only drive mode, the battery life still dipped noticeably below 85%; even with attempts to restore charge back to 100% highlighted the practical realities of real-world charging demands and the need for planning a longer recharge window. On the highway however, PHEV’s don’t seem to use as much energy, which came apparent as we managed to travel just over 40 miles on EV only before the gas engine seamlessly assumed control, and the trip averaged a respectable 22.6 mpg for a vehicle of this magnitude and performance.

When the battery depletes and the system transitions to hybrid mode, a degree of calibration sensitivity emerges. The vehicle’s electronic brain can feel unsettled during mid-range acceleration, producing a few perceptible lurches. The practical remedy is straightforward as the cure was to engage Gas-only mode for a steady, linear power delivery. Once streamlined, the driving experience aligns with the expectations of a six-figure luxury SUV.

The Range Rover Sport PHEV employs air springs and adaptive dampers that coalesce into a ride of rarefied calm and sophistication, even on large 23-inch wheels. The handling remains cohesive and precise, with controlled body roll that acknowledges the vehicle’s mass while preserving composure through corners and during braking. The cockpit posture conveys authority with the driver’s seat and overall seating position convey a sense of command, complemented by a hood design that visually recedes inward, affording a commanding view of the road ahead.

Inside, the cabin embraces a clean, minimalist aesthetic, anchored by a floating 13.1-inch infotainment display. This central touchscreen governs most comfort features, climate control, and media functions. While the display is undeniably modern, its breadth and depth can demand a small engineering degree to navigate efficiently. The tactile feedback of physical controls for essential functions is conspicuously sparse, which can feel distracting when you’re attempting a quick adjustment. The upside is a cabin drenched in sumptuous leather and well-calibrated massaging seats that do wonders to release the stress.

The 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV stands as a compelling fusion of luxury, performance, and practical electrification. Delivering on stimulating acceleration and a serene, sumptuous ride with genuine EV versatility. The PHEV is a persuasive chapter in the Range Rover story that confirms the brand’s adeptness at blending traditional performance with modern propulsion.