The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a mid-size luxury SUV, a sportier and more agile version of the flagship Range Rover. It boasts a distinctive blend of on-road performance and off-road capability. Produced from 2005 onwards, the 2012 model year offered trims like HSE, Supercharged, and Autobiography. New, it ranged from approximately $60,000 to $90,000+. Its popularity stems from its sophisticated styling, powerful engine options, and Land Rover's legendary off-road prowess.
The Good
The 2012 Range Rover Sport offers impressive performance, particularly with the supercharged engine, and renowned off-road capabilities (appealing emotionally). It provides a luxurious and comfortable ride. Its distinctive design and brand cachet are strong selling points. However, consider that efficiency and reliability can be concerns (practical considerations).
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 Range Rover Sport include reported issues with electrical systems, air suspension, and oil leaks. Fuel economy is poor, and maintenance/repair costs can be high. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle's service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic specializing in Land Rovers.
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 5.0-liter V8 (Naturally Aspirated): Available on HSE trims.
- 5.0-liter Supercharged V8: Available on Supercharged and Autobiography trims.
- Horsepower:
- Naturally Aspirated V8: 375 hp
- Supercharged V8: 510 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Naturally Aspirated V8: 13 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- Supercharged V8: 12 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph Times:
- Naturally Aspirated V8: Approximately 7.2 seconds
- Supercharged V8: Approximately 5.9 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Approximately 7,700 lbs (when properly equipped).
- Trim-Level Features:
- HSE: Leather upholstery, sunroof, navigation system, premium audio, adaptive suspension, rearview camera, parking sensors.
- Supercharged: All HSE features plus supercharged engine, upgraded brakes, adaptive cruise control, and sport-tuned suspension.
- Autobiography: All Supercharged features plus unique interior and exterior styling, premium leather, upgraded audio system, and rear-seat entertainment options.
- General features across trims: Four-wheel drive, Terrain Response system, automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, Bluetooth connectivity.
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Land Rover |
| Model | Range Rover Sport |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door 4WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturing City | SOLIHULL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2638.09 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3148.84 kg |
| Overall Height | 181.61 cm |
| Overall Length | 478.28 cm |
| Overall Width | 193.29 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 287.78 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Supercharged Gasoline V-8 5.0L/305 |
| Engine Size | 5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $75,245 USD |
| Invoice Price | $68,473 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $850 USD |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Have?
The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, like other models from this era, has a history of reported problems. Frequently cited issues involve the air suspension system, which can experience leaks and failures, leading to expensive repairs. Electrical issues are also common, ranging from malfunctioning sensors to problems with the infotainment system and other electronic components. Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets and other engine seals, are another recurring concern.
Long-term reliability can be a worry due to the complexity of the vehicle's systems. The supercharged engine, while powerful, can be more prone to issues than the naturally aspirated version. Some owners have reported problems with the cooling system, leading to overheating. While recalls can address specific safety-related defects, they don't necessarily resolve all potential reliability concerns. Prospective buyers should research specific recalls issued for the 2012 model year and verify that any necessary repairs have been performed. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Land Rover specialist is highly recommended to identify any existing or potential problems.
Long-term reliability can be a worry due to the complexity of the vehicle's systems. The supercharged engine, while powerful, can be more prone to issues than the naturally aspirated version. Some owners have reported problems with the cooling system, leading to overheating. While recalls can address specific safety-related defects, they don't necessarily resolve all potential reliability concerns. Prospective buyers should research specific recalls issued for the 2012 model year and verify that any necessary repairs have been performed. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Land Rover specialist is highly recommended to identify any existing or potential problems.
How long will the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport can potentially reach 150,000-200,000 miles or more. However, reaching this mileage depends heavily on consistent maintenance and proactive repairs. Given their age, many 2012 models will likely have accumulated significant mileage.
Long-term durability weaknesses often revolve around the air suspension, electrical systems, and potential for oil leaks. Regular servicing, including timely oil changes, coolant flushes, and suspension component inspections, is crucial to mitigating these issues and extending the vehicle's lifespan. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its usable life.
Long-term durability weaknesses often revolve around the air suspension, electrical systems, and potential for oil leaks. Regular servicing, including timely oil changes, coolant flushes, and suspension component inspections, is crucial to mitigating these issues and extending the vehicle's lifespan. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its usable life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a decent array of technology for its time. Standard features included a navigation system with a touchscreen display, a premium audio system (often Harman Kardon or similar), Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offered features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a rear-seat entertainment system with screens mounted in the headrests.
Driver-assistance features included parking sensors (front and rear) and hill descent control. Safety features comprised standard airbags (front, side, and curtain), anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control. The Terrain Response system allowed drivers to optimize the vehicle's settings for various off-road conditions.
While the 2012 Range Rover Sport provided a reasonable level of technology, it lacked some of the more advanced features found in newer vehicles, such as lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking. Crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS should be researched for specific details on the vehicle's performance in simulated collisions; however, these ratings are not always available for vehicles of this age. Optional features included upgraded leather upholstery, different wheel designs, and various interior trim options.
Driver-assistance features included parking sensors (front and rear) and hill descent control. Safety features comprised standard airbags (front, side, and curtain), anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control. The Terrain Response system allowed drivers to optimize the vehicle's settings for various off-road conditions.
While the 2012 Range Rover Sport provided a reasonable level of technology, it lacked some of the more advanced features found in newer vehicles, such as lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking. Crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS should be researched for specific details on the vehicle's performance in simulated collisions; however, these ratings are not always available for vehicles of this age. Optional features included upgraded leather upholstery, different wheel designs, and various interior trim options.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alaska White
Fuji White
Santorini Black
Indus Silver
Orkney Grey
Nara Bronze
Havana
Ipanema Sand
Luxor
Baltic Blue
Buckingham Blue
Firenze Red
Aintree Green
Interior Colors
Ebony
Almond
Cirrus
Arabica
Ivory
Pimento
Espresso
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport ranged from approximately $60,000 to over $90,000, depending on the trim level and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim.
The Range Rover Sport experiences significant depreciation, typical for luxury SUVs. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and geographical location. Models with lower mileage, a clean title, and documented maintenance records command higher prices. The supercharged models might hold slightly better value due to their performance, but they can also be perceived as higher risk due to potential maintenance costs.
The Range Rover Sport experiences significant depreciation, typical for luxury SUVs. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and geographical location. Models with lower mileage, a clean title, and documented maintenance records command higher prices. The supercharged models might hold slightly better value due to their performance, but they can also be perceived as higher risk due to potential maintenance costs.
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Cost of Ownership
The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is generally considered costly to own. Insurance premiums are typically higher than average due to its luxury status and repair costs. Fuel economy is poor, leading to significant fuel expenses. Maintenance and repair costs can be substantial, particularly for the air suspension and electrical systems. Long-term ownership requires a dedicated budget for potential repairs. It's far from an economical choice.
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
88.2 liters
City Mileage
5.1 km/l
Highway Mileage
7.23 km/l
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2021-08-12
Recall no.
21v635000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Range Rover Sport and 2010-2016 LR4 Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 or 5.0l V8 Engines. THE Fuel Outlet Flange Mounted ON THE Fuel Tank MAY Crack, Possibly Resulting IN A Fuel Leak.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Outlet Flange, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed October 7, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed MAY 11, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Land Rover Customer Service AT 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's Number FOR This Recall IS N623.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump:mounting Plate/Flange
Recall date
2021-08-12
Recall no.
21v635000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Range Rover Sport and 2010-2016 LR4 Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 or 5.0l V8 Engines. THE Fuel Outlet Flange Mounted ON THE Fuel Tank MAY Crack, Possibly Resulting IN A Fuel Leak.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Outlet Flange, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed October 7, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed MAY 11, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Land Rover Customer Service AT 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's Number FOR This Recall IS N623.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport competed with other luxury SUVs such as the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (now GLE), Audi Q7, and Porsche Cayenne. In terms of performance, the supercharged Range Rover Sport could match or exceed some rivals, offering brisk acceleration. Its off-road capabilities were superior to most competitors, a key differentiator.
However, in terms of reliability, the Range Rover Sport generally lags behind its German rivals. The BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz ML-Class often prove more reliable in the long run. Features were generally comparable across the segment, although specific packages and options varied. Price-wise, the Range Rover Sport was typically in the same ballpark as its competitors when new, but depreciation has made used models relatively accessible.
Alternatives to consider include the Porsche Cayenne (for sportier handling and greater reliability), the BMW X5 (for a balance of performance and reliability), or the Lexus RX (for exceptional reliability, though less performance-oriented). If reliability is a primary concern, the Lexus RX or Acura MDX would be better choices. The Cayenne provides similar levels of luxury and performance, but with better reliability ratings.
However, in terms of reliability, the Range Rover Sport generally lags behind its German rivals. The BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz ML-Class often prove more reliable in the long run. Features were generally comparable across the segment, although specific packages and options varied. Price-wise, the Range Rover Sport was typically in the same ballpark as its competitors when new, but depreciation has made used models relatively accessible.
Alternatives to consider include the Porsche Cayenne (for sportier handling and greater reliability), the BMW X5 (for a balance of performance and reliability), or the Lexus RX (for exceptional reliability, though less performance-oriented). If reliability is a primary concern, the Lexus RX or Acura MDX would be better choices. The Cayenne provides similar levels of luxury and performance, but with better reliability ratings.
Ranks #1534 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1534 | 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is ideal for buyers who prioritize a blend of performance, luxury, and off-road capability, and who appreciate the Land Rover brand image. It's worth buying *used* if you're aware of the potential reliability issues and are prepared to budget for maintenance and repairs. Opting for a well-maintained example with a comprehensive service history is crucial. The HSE trim might be a more sensible choice than the Supercharged or Autobiography models if minimizing potential repair costs is a concern. A pre-purchase inspection is essential. If reliability is a top priority, consider alternatives.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.