1970 was a landmark year for the Land Rover. This marks the year that the first Range Rover rolled out of a UK factory. Since then, the manufacturing of the Range Rover is going strong. Let’s find out some information on what’s been up with the RR since its debut in 1970.

The 1st RR, like some early versions of the Chicago Land Rover LR4, was pretty basic.  It was designed with vinyl seats and a plastic dashboard!  The idea was to be able to clean the inside by spraying it with a hose!   Can you imagine that, thinking about the current RR’s that are so luxurious?!?

The production of the Range Rover can be divided up into three generations.  Generation one lasted from 1970-1995.  The second went from 1994 to 2002, and the current generation (third) has been in production since 2002.  Clearly, these generations mark notable changes in the exterior and interior design, powertrain, and available safety features!

One thing can be said about the shape of the RR is that it’s retained it’s box-like shape that makes you recognize it as a RR when you see it on the street.  This is similar to the design of Land Rover’s including the Chicago new LR2.  This design is one of the company’s flagship appeals!

Many other changes have taken place since 1970.  When the 2nd generation emerged, vehicles from that era received updated V8 engines versus those used in generation one RR’s.  Some other updates to this generation include a new, stronger chassis, better air suspension, and an anti-lock braking system for the models with 2 wheel traction control.

Moving on to our current third generation models, like the Chicago Land Rover LR4, the newest Range Rovers are some of the most durable, yet luxurious models on the market.  The 2010 LR received many updates including new grilles, bumpers, LED head and tail lights, and two new engines!  Inside the cabin, the layout of some of the displays has been updated to make it more user friendly for driver and passenger alike!

Happy 40th birthday, Range Rover.  There’s a reason these SUV’s have been around 40 years and counting.  Head to your local dealer today and take one for a spin.  I think you’ll be hooked!