Range Rover has upped the ante with the 2011 version of the Vogue – the world’s ultimate luxury SUV.

Just launched in Europe and due locally next year, the 2011 Range Rover Vogue is highlighted by a new 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 diesel engine driving through a new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The new engine delivers zero to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds – that’s 1.4 seconds faster than the current 3.6-litre turbo-diesel. 

Range Rover’s new turbo-diesel provides 230kW of power at 3,750rpm and a massive 700Nm of torque from as low as 2,000rpm. Despite the extra performance, fuel consumption is down by 18.5 per cent to 9.4l/100kms (the first range Rover Vogue model to better 9.5l/100kms) and emissions are down by 14 per cent to 253g/km.

A major contributor to the enhanced dynamics is the eight-speed transmission sourced from ZF and tuned by Range Rover. Shifts are virtually imperceptible - just 200 milliseconds are required o swap cogs

No changes to the brilliant 5.0-litre supercharged petrol V8 which delivers its 375kw/625Nm via a six-speed automatic transmission and accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. 

Range Rover’s already outstanding all-round capability is further enhanced with the Terrain Response system scoring Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.

Externally there are some minor changes, including new grilles, headlights, side vents and five choices of alloy wheel designs, while inside there are new transmission controls, upgraded audio systems and optional electronically reclining, heathed/cooled rear seats. The optional range-topping audio is a Harman Kardon Logic 7 1200 watt, 19-speaker system.

Range Rover Australia will launch the new lineup early next year and local specifications and pricing have not been finalized.