2018 Range Rover Velar Release Date, Specs News: SUV Teased Ahead of Launch on March 1

By Georgia Gana, Christian Post Contributor Thursday, February 23, 2017

Land Rover has released a teaser image for its newest sports utility vehicle (SUV) ahead of its launch next week. The British automaker also finally confirmed that the fourth member of its SUV family will be called Velar, a name that calls to mind the Range Rover's detailed history.

The Velar nameplate was used for the first Range Rover prototypes back in the late 1960s. Its name is based on the Latin word "velare," which means to veil or cover. These pre-production vehicles are the basis of what has become one of the most popular luxury SUV models in the market.

Upon its release, the 2018 Range Rover Velar will fill the space between the Range Rover Evoque and the Range Rover Sport. The upcoming SUV's addition was due to the automaker's desire to offer a comprehensive range that will present customers with suitable options, depending on their desired size and price range.

Land Rover has not released specific details for the Velar but the automaker did tease that it will have an elegant but simple design and will be equipped with pioneering consumer technology. The teaser photo also reveals that the upcoming vehicle will have an expansive glass roof.

"We call the Velar the avant-garde Range Rover. It brings a new dimension of glamour, modernity and elegance to the brand. The Range Rover Velar changes everything," said Gerry McGovern, chief design officer for Land Rover.

Furthermore, automaker mentioned that the 2018 Range Rover Velar has been refined to handle all types of terrain. It was built using sustainable materials and advanced engineering that are in line with the company's slogan, Above and Beyond, which aims to deliver on both heritage and innovation.

According to previous reports, the Velar will use the company's new aluminum-intensive IQ platform. The five-seat SUV will also have a lower roofline and higher ground clearance compared to the larger Range Rover Sport.

The 2018 Range Rover Velar will be officially unveiled on Wednesday, March 1. The new SUV is also expected to make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show, scheduled from March 9 to 19.