Range Rover Sport Electrified Version Unveiled With V8 Engine Retained for Performance Lovers
Range Rover Sport Electrified Version: Range Rover has previewed the new Range Rover Sport Electric at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed, giving luxury SUV buyers an early look at its second fully electric model. The SUV keeps the muscular shape and premium character associated with the Sport while introducing instant electric response and a quieter driving experience. Importantly, the electric model does not use a V8 engine. Instead, the mild-hybrid V8 petrol option will remain available separately for buyers who still want traditional engine performance and sound.
Range Rover Sport Electric Makes Its Goodwood Debut
The Range Rover Sport Electric appeared in a private preview at Goodwood, where it completed several driving challenges on the motor circuit. Range Rover says the vehicle has been tuned to preserve the engaging character of the standard Sport while adding the smooth power delivery of an electric drivetrain. The model is expected to join the global line-up later in 2026, although final specifications, pricing and wider market availability have not yet been officially announced.
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Reports indicate that the electric SUV is based on JLR’s Modular Longitudinal Architecture, a platform developed to support both combustion and electric powertrains. It is expected to use a 118.5kWh battery and two electric motors, with one motor on each axle for all-wheel drive. Several reports place total output at about 550hp, but Range Rover has not officially confirmed the final production figure. Early estimates also suggest a driving range of more than 300 miles, depending on the testing standard and final vehicle setup.
The electric powertrain should provide quick acceleration without the delay of a traditional gearbox. Regenerative braking and a one-pedal driving mode are also expected to help drivers manage speed more smoothly, including during low-speed off-road driving.
Design and Cabin
Range Rover has avoided giving the Sport Electric a completely different appearance. The overall shape, lighting design and strong body lines remain close to the petrol and diesel versions. Expected EV-specific details include a closed front grille, aerodynamic wheels, discreet electric badging and the absence of exhaust outlets.
Inside, the cabin is likely to retain the familiar premium layout, large central touchscreen and high driving position. Electric energy displays and charging information should be added without changing the calm, modern interior that existing Range Rover Sport customers recognise.
Electric Performance Focus
Range Rover says electric power will give the Sport a new performance edge through immediate torque, revised chassis tuning and advanced sound technology. The lower placement of the battery may also improve stability by reducing the centre of gravity. The company wants the vehicle to feel like a genuine Range Rover Sport rather than a separate electric experiment, with comfort, road performance and off-road ability receiving equal attention.
V8 Engine Remains Available
Performance lovers who prefer a combustion engine will still have a choice. The Range Rover Sport line-up will continue to offer a mild-hybrid V8 petrol engine alongside plug-in hybrid, six-cylinder petrol and diesel options. This means the electric version expands the range instead of replacing the V8. Buyers can choose quiet electric performance or the stronger sound and character of a V8-powered model.
Positioning and Rivals
The Range Rover Sport Electric will enter a growing luxury electric SUV market and is expected to compete with models such as the Porsche Cayenne Electric and BMW iX5. Full pricing and confirmed technical details are due later in 2026.
Sources
- Land Rover Media Newsroom: Confirmed the Goodwood preview and stated that the electric model will join V8, plug-in hybrid and six-cylinder powertrains.
- Autocar India: Reported the 118.5kWh battery, dual-motor all-wheel drive system and estimated 550hp output.
- NDTV Auto: Detailed the MLA platform, one-pedal driving mode and familiar exterior and cabin design.
- Car and Driver: Reported an expected range above 300 miles and minimal styling differences from the combustion model.
- Times of India: Reported that the Sport Electric demonstrated its abilities through driving challenges at Goodwood Motor Circuit.
