The strikingly handsome Range Rover Velar has been the recipient of a few updates - and the introduction of a limited edition model, called the Auric. The name - derived from the Latin for gold, Aurum - is a "nod to the elegant Auric Atlas finishes", says Land Rover.
Based on the Velar R-Dynamic S model, the Auric Atlas trim is to be found on the badges, bonnet, doors and grille. Three exterior paint choices (Charente Grey, Ostuni Pearl White and Santorini Black) are available, while 20-inch "Mercurial Gloss Sparkle Silver" alloy wheels and privacy glass complete the look. Optional 22-inch alloy wheels and a contrast roof is available.
Inside, buyers can choose from a number of interior finishes. For the traditionalists, Windsor leather upholstery is available, although Kvadrat premium textiles - a sustainable, environmentally friendly material - is available too.
Changes to the Velar range includes improved air quality for occupants, in the form of Cabin Air Purification Plus. According to the British SUV maker, it builds on Land Rover's existing Cabin Air Ionisation with PM2.5 filtration. The new system "optimises cabin air quality by automatically introducing fresh external air when sensors detect CO2 levels fall outside of acceptable levels*, something which can occur in the event of air recirculation being on for extended periods for example in polluted areas, or with several occupants." Land Rover says this intends both safety and well-being for occupants.
Also building on the already comprehensive safety features suite of the Velar is the addition of Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist (standard on all Velar models) and a rear camera as standard.
In South Africa, the Auric Edition can be had with a choice of three engines - two turbodiesels and one petrol powertrain. The P250, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol produces 184 kW and 365 Nm of torque. A D200 (2,0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel) with 150 kW and 600 Nm of torque is also available, with both costing R1 399 700. The most expensive derivative of the Auric Edition is the D300, with a straight-six turbodiesel that offers 221 kW and 650 Nm of torque. An eight-speed automatic and four-wheel drive are standard across the range.
Land Rover Range Rover Velar Pricing:
D200 S R1 293 800
D300 S R1 448 100
P250 S R1 293 800
P340 S R1 428 200
P400e S R1 654 500
D200 R-Dynamic R1 363 710
D300 R-Dynamic R1 517 900
P250 R-Dynamic R1 363 700
P340 R-Dynamic R1 498 100
P400e R-Dynamic R1 725 400
D200 Auric Edition R1 399 700
D300 Auric Edition R1 553 900
P250 Auric Edition R1 399 700
Thinking of buying a Range Rover Velar? Click here.
