Used Range Rover Buying Guide
The full-fat Range Rover is the default luxury SUV, and depreciation makes used examples look tantalising. Two generations dominate: the aluminium L405 (2012-2021) and the current L460 (2022 on). The golden rule at this end of the market: you’re not buying a car, you’re buying its maintenance record.
Engines and trims
L405 stock is mostly 3.0 TDV6/SDV6 and 4.4 SDV8 diesels, with SDV8 the effortless long-distance pick and the P400e plug-in arriving post-facelift. The L460 runs D300/D350 straight-six diesels — the sensible choice — plus P440e/P510e hybrids and V8 petrols. Vogue, Autobiography and SVAutobiography define the L405 hierarchy; SE/HSE/Autobiography the L460’s. Long-wheelbase versions add limousine rear space. Specification barely matters next to condition: every Range Rover is lavishly equipped, so choose on history first, engine second, colour last.
What to check before buying
Air suspension first: cycle every height, listen for compressor strain, and watch for a corner that sags overnight — ask the seller to leave it parked and return. Electronics second: test every seat function, screen, camera, and the split tailgate. On L405 diesels, look for cooling-system and turbo-plumbing work in the history and confirm regular oil changes; on P400e hybrids, verify range and charging. The L460 adds sheer software complexity — insist everything works and that recalls and updates are done. Both generations are prime theft targets, so provenance checks are mandatory: full history check, VIN verification, and ideally a professional pre-purchase inspection — at this value it’s trivial insurance. Main-dealer or specialist service history without gaps is the entry ticket; our Land Rover problems guide explains what neglect costs here.
Running costs
Low-30s mpg from the diesels on a gentle motorway run, huge tyres, luxury-rate VED, and four-figure invoices when suspension, electronics or cooling components retire. Warranty cover — manufacturer-approved or quality aftermarket — is worth serious consideration.
Verdict
A properly maintained D350 with complete history is one of the great luxury experiences, used or new. A cheap Range Rover without paperwork is the most reliable way in motoring to turn savings into invoices. There is no third category.
Browse more used Land Rover models.