Since the late 1960s, the Range Rover has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication. With its iconic shape, unique features, and superior off-road capabilities, the Range Rover has earned a loyal following of devoted owners. Recently, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover was placed at the top of J.D. Power’s APEAL study, a survey that had owners rank their cars in 10 different categories from most to least favorite. So, what is it that Range Rover owners love about their SUVs?

Overview of 2023 J.D. Power’s APEAL Study

According to the 2023 J.D. Power’s APEAL Study, 84,555 respondents were asked to rate their vehicles on a scale of 1,000 points. Across all brands and models surveyed, the Range Rover ranked highest out of five large premium SUVs.

As part of the APEAL study, owners rated the Range Rover in 10 primary categories, from their most favorite thing about the vehicle to their least favorite. Of the 10 categories surveyed, the Range Rover’s exterior styling, driving feel, and interior design ranked as the top three most favored by Range Rover owners.

Range Rover exterior styling: what makes it so appealing?

The distinct elegance of the Range Rover’s exterior styling stands out to many Range Rover owners. The 2023 model features a sleek, modern design with a high shoulder line and an edgy black canopy of dark-tinted glass. The body features smoother, more rounded creases and accent lines that help to maintain the classic Land Rover rectangular shape while giving the SUV an updated look.

Its refined design elements include a three-tier grille design at the front, new side graphics on the front fenders, and a small triangular piece of glass above the side view mirrors that helps improve visibility. Plus, its two antenna fins atop the roof offer a touch of contemporary flair.

Additionally, the Range Rover’s exterior styling also offers impressive off-road capabilities. Its high ground clearance of 8.6 inches in standard mode (and 11.6 inches in off-road mode) makes it perfect for tackling any terrain, and its impressive angles—34.7° approach, 25.9° break-over, and 29° departure—allow drivers to navigate with ease through the most challenging conditions.

Driving feel: why Range Rover owners love the ride

The Range Rover’s driving experience is also a significant selling point for many Range Rover owners. It has a trio of powertrains, including a base P400 turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 gasoline engine with 395 hp. The engine provides a sleek and smooth ride while providing plenty of power to tug the Range Rover through challenging terrain.

A perkier BMW-sourced 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine (dubbed P530) is also available and can propel the Range Rover to 60 mph in only 4.3 seconds. Driving the P530 is an exhilarating experience, with its V-8 rumble providing a satisfyingly powerful feeling. The Range Rover’s ability to maintain a smooth, luxurious ride even when pushed hard around corners and tight curves is even more impressive.

The Range Rover’s driving experience is also enhanced by its standard air suspension that absorbs nearly every road imperfection for a smooth ride. Expect a silent cabin even when traveling at high speeds, with the only sound coming from the luxurious Meridian surround-sound system. The gas and brake pedals also provide a smooth experience, with the long, squishy throw of the brake pedal making it easy to make limo-style stops.

An elegant and luxurious interior design

The Range Rover’s interior design is another area that Range Rover owners love. The SUV’s cabin goes beyond luxury, with the leather and wood trim giving it an air of sophistication. Its layout is also straightforward, with simple controls that are intuitively placed.

It’s also worth noting that even the most basic of interior appointments feel luxurious. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive with adjustable lumbar support, while the front seats offer a massage setting for added comfort. The rear seats are also comfortable and offer enough room for two adults to sit comfortably.

The infotainment system is also relatively intuitive, with the menu flow looking similar to earlier versions that were well-liked by Range Rover owners. Through the touchscreen, functions are carried out directly and easily accessed. Getting into the third-row seat is also a breeze, thanks to the tip-forward second row that allows you to keep forward-facing child seats or boosters belted in place.