Land Rover didn’t stint when it came to trimming out the cabin of the
L322
. No base model with velour seats here. Instead, every model has leather seats and electric adjustment for the seats and steering column, as well as a heated steering wheel in many models.
The downside to all of this opulence is there are a lot of electrics to go wrong, and they will do at some point in most cars. Problems with the electric steering column adjust are common and it often stops working in one direction of movement, either reach or rake. Also make sure the wheel reverts to the correct position along with the seat memory position.
A heated steering wheel is a real touch of luxury, but it can fail and the button to work it on the steering wheel may need replacing. Also check all of the controls on the steering wheel for the stereo, hands-free phone and cruise control all work.
Problems with the electric seat adjustment are most likely down to a faulty fuse or worn-out motor and both are easy to fix. Some models, such as the Vogue, also have heated rear seats, so check these work too. While you’re at it, operate all of the four electric windows to make certain they go up and down smoothly.
The climate control system should work well, either hot or cold, and should warm quickly. More of a concern is the satellite navigation, which wasn’t standard on the SE. On early cars, this may be out of date, yet even newer cars can malfunction and fail to find the correct road or route. The screen is prone to fault, too, and many will have some pixels missing from the display.
On top of all these electrical gremlins, the Range Rover could also be bought with a pre-heat function to warm the car before you got in. It’s a great idea, but it also drains the battery, so be careful how much you use this option. The battery itself is a known weak spot with the L322 and it can drain quickly and without warning, so budget for a replacement when you buy a car.
If all of the above check out, there is still the condition of the leather and trim to consider. The driver’s seat outer lower bolster gets crushed as the driver gets in and out, so it wears more quickly than the rest of the interior and it’s a good indicator of the general state of the cabin’s upholstery. Colour combination is down to personal choice, but a dark exterior with light interior or vice versa tend to be more popular with buyers, so bear this in mind for resale.
The trademark split tailgate of the Range Rover has many uses, but check it for signs of damage or dents from people sitting or standing on it. There are 535 litres of cargo space in the boot and the rear seats fold 60/40 to free up even more luggage capacity. Inspect the boot carpet for scuffs and dog hair as many Range Rovers will have been used for country pursuits. The tailgate design dictates the rear wash-wipe is hidden in the upper section of the top half of the tailgate. This means you will always get a dribble of water after cleaning the rear screen, which is just one of life’s minor irritations.
Special editions such as the Westminster and Autobiography Ultimate Edition add more equipment, but they are only worth paying extra for if they meet your ideal specification.
Owner's View:
"It’s the ideal long distance practical car. Really does combine luxury motoring with go-anywhere capability, with five people, luggage and a big load on the back if you need to. The driving position and luxury feel are superb and it has the best seats of any car."
Bogie