If you want a vehicle that offers the best in terms of performance, off-road and on-road capabilities and prestige then the Range Rover is a worthy choice.
This 4×4 powerhouse is now in its fifth generation and is dabbling with new drivetrains with the addition of various hybrid models.
In its 50-year run, the Range Rover has never failed to capture the attention of off-road enthusiasts with a lot of money to spare.
JD Power has provided the Range Rover with above-average ratings. In 2022, this vehicle received a consumer score of 76 out of 100, with great individual ratings for “quality & reliability” and “driving experience,” at 80 and 84 (out of 100), respectively.
If you would like to know more about the best and worst years of this luxury fullsize SUV, continue reading to find out.
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Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Land Rover Range Rover Are:
The best Land Rover Range Rover models are from 2019 onwards, 2015 – 2018, 2012, 2013, 2009 and 2001 model. On the other hand, the worst Range Rovers are the 2014, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2004 and 2003 model years.
What Are The Best Years For The Land Rover Range Rover?
Land Rover has produced a lot of great Range Rovers in the model’s 50-year lifespan.
Listed below are those that reign supreme..
2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 Land Rover Range Rover
The 2019 – 2023 Range Rovers are quite possibly the best iterations of the long-standing vehicle to date because of their updated safety features, state-of-the-art-tech (specifically the infotainment system), improved suspension and lack of reported problems (so far).
If you had to choose the most affordable Range Rover among the bunch, then finding a used 2019 Land Rover Range Rover would be your best bet without missing out on too much.
Otherwise, go for the latest 2023 Range Rover, preferably brand new, for updated safety and technology features.
These model years (excluding 2023) received an identical score of 3.8 out of 5.0 over at Kelley Blue Book. The 2021 Range Rover secured the highest rating on Edmunds with a score of 4.0 out of 5.0.
The 2023 Range Rover is still to receive its consumer ratings although it has already bagged a 9/10 review from Car & Driver.
One Range Rover owner had this to say on Kelley Blue Book:
“THIS IS MY 3RD RANGE ROVER, I’VE HAD A SUPERCHARGED SPORT AND A 2012 HSE OF WHICH I LOVED BOTH. BUT THIS TD6 OUT DOES BOTH OF THEM. SOLID POWER, SUPERBLY COMFORTABLE RIDE. I WON’T GO WITHOUT OWNING A RANGE ROVER, EVER.”
Over at Edmunds, this car owner chose the Range Rover over other competitors:
“Outstanding driving experience! Of all the luxury/non luxury brands, none felt so convenient, quiet, and smooth driving.”
2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Land Rover Range Rover
The 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Range Rover models do not have all the bells and whistles that the latest versions have, but suffice to say that any of these powerful machines would suit you well both on-road and off-road and will certainly turn heads.
If you are a novice at finding quality vehicles in the used car market, then we suggest getting a second opinion before handing over your hard earned cash.
These Range Rovers secured an identical score of 3.8 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book. The 2016 Range Rover, however, deserves more praise as it secured a 3.9 out of 5.0 over at Edmunds and an 83 out of 100 on JD Power.
Over at Kelley Blue Book, this car owner shared his view on the 2018 Range Rover:
“It’s incredible how this fairly large SUV handles like a luxury sports car. Every time I drive it I am blown away at the smooth ride, the perfect handling, and exceptional acceleration (supercharged V8) and incredible braking. Simply the best! Cannot emphasis enough how perfect this vehicle is — that is if you’re ok with average mpg’s.”
One Range Rover owner shared his admiration for the vehicle on Edmunds:
“… Everything about it is rock solid: the power, the luxurious cabin, supple leather, huge interior, massive trunk space…”
2012 and 2013 Land Rover Range Rover
If you are not a fan of the fancy gadgets and gizmos of modern-day vehicles but would still like a powerful engine, smooth steering, and an agile suspension system, then the 2012 and 2013 Range Rovers are good picks.
We recommend going for these models if you are looking for the best balance between pricing and performance. Just make sure to be aware of the common traps and pitfalls of buying a vehicle used.
The 2015 and 2016 Land Rover Range Rover models secured a 3.8 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book. Over at JD Power, the 2015 model year got a 76 out of 100 while the 2016 version got a slightly higher 83 out of 100.
On Kelley Blue Book, one Range Rover owners calls the SUV “mechanically magnificent,” and more:
“A 5000lb luxury SUV capable of comfortably going anywhere that gets 21-22mpg winter snows / summer 22s at 75-80mph. Build quality is all topshelf…”
Over at Edmunds, this 2012 Range Rover owner provided an interesting take based on his years of experience:
“It’s a great SUV. Perfect size. Handles great and a pure joy to drive . I have owned many SUV in the last 20 years and the Range Rover is by far the best…”
2009 Land Rover Range Rover
The 2009 Range Rover may sound a little bit too dated, but do not let its age take away from the fact that this is one of the best models produced because of its interior and exterior styling, engine performance, and relative ease of driving on-road and off-road.
If you have a good eye for quality used vehicles in the second-hand market, then you may be able to find a great 2009 Range Rover at a very affordable price.
The 2009 Range Rover secured a 3.9 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book and a 3.4 out of 5.0 on Edmunds.
On Kelley Blue Book, one Range Rover owners had a short but sweet review:
“Fun to drive and definitely a head turner. I’ve owned it for 6 months and well worth the price. So far so good.”
Over at Edmunds, this car owner talked about his Range Rover which was purchased from the second-hand market:
“… Yes I have had some issues but very minimal compared to what I’ve been told to expect. She had 90,000 miles when I got her and now she’s just over 150,000 and doing fine. I love her and would gladly get another…”
Related: 3 Most Common Problems With Range Rovers (Explained)
2001 Land Rover Range Rover
As one of the least problematic model years in its lifetime, it would be wrong not to have the 2001 Range Rover in the discussion of the best model years. Known for its power, durability, and reliability, this vehicle did not disappoint when it was introduced.
We would not recommend looking for this model year if you are inexperienced in the used car market. However, if you find a good deal at a reasonable mileage count, then perhaps you could risk the purchase (just make sure to consult with experts first).
The 2001 Range Rover secured a 3.7 out of 5.0 at Edmunds. On Kelley Blue Book, this model was granted a 3.9 out of 5.0.
One Range Rover owner shared talked about how the past 20 years has been with his beloved vehicle:
“Its 20 years old and still going strong. The air suspension was the only real problem I’ve had with this truck.”
Over at Edmunds, this Range Rover owner talked about the on-road and off-road capabilities of the vehicle:
“I bought this to drive in comfort on the highway and never get stranded offroad. It excells at both…”
Consumer Scores For Best Land Rover Range Rover Years
Below is a table that presents all the consumer ratings of the best Land Rover Range Rover model years from reputable vehicle websites:
| Range Rover Model Year | Edmunds’ Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book’s Consumer Rating | JD Power’s Consumer Rating | Car & Driver Rating |
| 2023 | NA | NA | NA | 9/10 |
| 2022 | NA | 3.8 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 | 9/10 |
| 2021 | 4.0 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 | 8/10 |
| 2020 | 2.6 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 72 / 100 | 8.5/10 |
| 2019 | 3.7 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 77 / 100 | 9/10 |
| 2018 | 2.0 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | NA | 10/10 |
| 2017 | 3.6 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | NA | 10/10 |
| 2016 | 3.9 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 | NA |
| 2015 | 2.3 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 | NA |
| 2013 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 | NA |
| 2012 | 2.8 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | 73 / 100 | NA |
| 2009 | 3.4 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | NA | NA |
| 2001 | 3.7 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | NA | NA |
What Are The Worst Years For The Land Rover Range Rover?
The Land Rover Range Rover has also been subject to criticism due to its fair share of reliability issues.
The models listed below are the versions of the vehicle that you should steer clear of…
2014 Land Rover Range Rover
The 2014 Range Rover had a lot of issues and concerns, but not as many as the rest of the model years on this list.
The most significant issue raised by the owners were problems with the electrical system of the car, leading to malfunctions in accessories, warning indicators, and other related equipment.
The 2014 Range Rover had a total of 48 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
The main problems of the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover are the following:
- Electrical system
- Engine and engine cooling
- Structure
- Equipment
- Airbag-related problems
2006, 2007, and 2008 Land Rover Range Rover
Much like their 2014 counterpart, the 2006, 2007, and 2008 Range Rovers had big issues with the electrical system.
However, a prominent issue that stood out among these three models had something to do with service brakes. A malfunctioning service brake is not just a reputation issue. It is also a big safety risk.
The 2006, 2007, and 2008 Range Rovers had a total of 128 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
The main problems of the 2006, 2007, and 2008 Land Rover Range Rover are the following:
- Electrical system
- Power train
- Airbag-related problems
- Suspension
- Service brakes
2003 and 2004 Land Rover Range Rover
The 2003 and 2004 model years have a lion’s share of the overall problems reported by Range Rover owners, accounting for over half of all reports.
The biggest issues lie in either model’s power train and suspension, which manifested early on for some individuals.
The 2003 Range Rover had a total of 168 problems while the 2004 model had 115 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
The main problems of the 2003 and 2004 Land Rover Range Rover are the following:
- Power train
- Suspension
- Steering
- Engine and engine cooling
- Steering
Related: How Long Do Range Rovers Last? (Solved & Explained)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
There are a handful of Land Rover Range Rover models that have received numerous complaints (relative to units sold) through the years. Listed below are complaints and problems listed for each model year:
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
| 2021 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 1 |
| 2020 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 5 |
| 2019 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 5 |
| 2018 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 24 |
| 2017 Land Rover Range Rover | 1 | 24 |
| 2016 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 13 |
| 2015 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 24 |
| 2014 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 48 |
| 2013 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 28 |
| 2012 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 20 |
| 2011 Land Rover Range Rover | 1 | 21 |
| 2010 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 19 |
| 2009 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 6 |
| 2008 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 31 |
| 2007 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 25 |
| 2006 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 72 |
| 2005 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 42 |
| 2004 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 115 |
| 2003 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 168 |
| 2002 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 25 |
| 2001 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 7 |
| 2000 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 32 |
| 1999 Land Rover Range Rover | 0 | 38 |
| 1998 Land Rover Range Rover | 2 | 28 |
| 1997 Land Rover Range Rover | NA | 27 |
| 1996 Land Rover Range Rover | NA | 50 |
What Problems Do Land Rover Range Rovers Have?
Based on the information we have gathered online, here are the most common issues that you may encounter with a Land Rover Range Rover:
- Brakes wear out prematurely
- Water leaks in through windshield
- Suspension light comes on
- Brakes malfunctioning
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Land Rover Range Rover?
The Land Rover Range Rover is one of the best options in the luxury fullsize SUV segment, ranking third overall, scoring the same as the Cadillac Escalade.
However, there are also a lot of great alternatives.
Take a look at some of the interesting models to check out if you want to be fully aware of your options.
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Land Rover Range Rover | 8.5 | $101,000 – $211,200 | City: NA / Highway: NA |
| Lincoln Navigator | 9.0 | $77,635 – $109,680 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Jeep Grand Wagoneer | 8.7 | $87,845 – $104,845 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Cadillac Escalade | 8.5 | $101,000 – $211,200 | City: NA / Highway: NA |
| Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class | 8.3 | $77,850 | City: 20 / Highway: 24 |
| BMW X7 | 8.1 | $74,900 – $141,300 | City: 15 – 19 /Highway: 21 – 24 |
| Infiniti QX80 | 7.1 | $70,600 – $84,850 | City: 13 – 14 / Highway: 19 – 20 |
| Lexus LX | 7.1 | $86,900 – $126,000 | City: 17 / Highway: 22 |
Related: Range Rover Tune-Up & Maintenance Costs (Complete Guide)
References
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/land-rover/range-rover
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Land_Rover/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/landrover/rangerover/
https://www.edmunds.com/land-rover/range-rover/
https://www.kbb.com/land-rover/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/land-rover
