2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a one-piece powered tailgate that became standard across the lineup. This was a meaningful late-cycle update rather than a redesign.
About the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
1st generation (2006-2013), late-cycle update; 2012 was the next-to-last model year before the 2014 redesign.
Land Rover positioned the Range Rover Sport as a luxury SUV that combines strong road performance with genuine off-road ability. Its identity centers on a high seating position, V8 power, air suspension, a comfortable five-seat cabin, and full-time 4WD with selectable terrain settings. Compared with road-focused luxury SUVs, it emphasizes a wider range of capability without giving up premium materials, long-distance comfort, or responsive handling.
The HSE is the comfort-focused version, with a 375-hp V8, leather seating, navigation, full-time four-wheel drive, and an air suspension. The Supercharged is the performance model, pairing a 510-hp V8 with stronger brakes and suspension systems that reduce body lean and sharpen its responses. Both have low-range gearing for difficult terrain, a rearview camera, and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
What changed, by category
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V8, Supercharged, 5.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/CmdShft | Auto, 6-Spd w/CmdShft |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 12 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 18 mpg | 17 mpg |
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 510 hp |
| Torque | 375 lb-ft | 461 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7716 lb | 7716 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 71 cu-ft | 71 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.6 in | 37.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Heated Windshield | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Refrigerator/Cooler | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Range Rover Sport?
The biggest change is the one-piece powered tailgate, which became standard on both the HSE and Supercharged trims. Its opening height is programmable, helping in garages or other spaces with limited overhead clearance.
Did the 2012 Range Rover Sport get a new engine or transmission?
No, the US gasoline engines and six-speed automatic transmissions carried over. The HSE retained its 375-hp 5.0-liter V8, while the Supercharged retained its 510-hp supercharged 5.0-liter V8.
How did the infotainment system change for 2012?
The 2012 model received newer infotainment hardware, revised touchscreen graphics, Bluetooth audio streaming, and USB connectivity. Its standard Harman Kardon audio system also increased to 380 watts and 11 speakers.
How are the 2012 Range Rover Sport HSE and Supercharged different?
The HSE is the comfort-focused trim with a 375-hp V8, while the Supercharged is the performance version with a 510-hp V8, stronger brakes, and more advanced body-control systems. Both have full-time four-wheel drive, an air suspension, navigation, and the powered tailgate.
Is the 2012 Range Rover Sport a major upgrade over the 2011 model?
No, it is a useful late-cycle update rather than a major overhaul. Its main advantages are the standard powered tailgate, refreshed exterior details, improved device connectivity, and upgraded audio; its engines and transmissions are unchanged.