Permanent 4WD is standard on the 2006 Land Rover Range Rover, along with electronic traction control (ETC) and dynamic stability control (DSC). These systems work in tandem with the throttle, transmission, brakes, and suspension to maximize traction. The transfer case provides low-range gearing and the center differential is now electronically controlled to improve handling on and off the road, says Land Rover.

More difficult terrain is handled by the 4WD system’s low range. Land Rover’s Terrain Response system (first seen in the 2005 LR3) includes five settings for off-road and traction-compromised road travel, activated through the large, center-console mounted rotary knob. A general setting handles clear roads while another addresses slippery conditions created by grass, gravel or snow. Finally, three different modes are reserved for off-roading: one for mud and ruts; one for sand; and one for intense rock crawling. Once set, the system modulates ride height, engine torque response, traction control, hill descent control, and all gearing.

Both Range Rovers come with four-wheel independent, height adjustable air suspension and a tire pressure monitoring system. The height adjustable air suspension raises and lowers the vehicle, allowing it to ford up to 20 inches of standing water while also making it easier to get into and out of the Range Rover.

Well-behaved stopping power for this nearly three-ton SUV is produced by a four-wheel-disc antilock braking system, oversized in the supercharged model with 14.2-inch rotors up front and 13.9-inch rotors in the rear, clamped by four-piston Brembo front calipers. HSE versions use 13.3- and 13.8-inch discs front and rear, respectively. Standard on the Supercharged are 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels dressed in 255/50R20 tires; the HSE rides on 19-inchers wrapped in 255/55R19 tires.