The 2022 Range Rover Sport HST bridges the gap between everyday luxury and punchy inline-six performance. Positioned right below the V8-powered trims, this special variant relies on a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a mild-hybrid system to push out 395 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. It hits 0-100 km/h in roughly 5.9 seconds, making it responsive without demanding V8 fuel penalties.
Choosing this mid-tier specification means getting a unique mix of carbon fiber exterior accents, Suedecloth interior trim, and dynamic air suspension as standard. While the next-generation redesign arrived shortly after for the 2023 model year, the 2022 HST remains a sought-after choice on the pre-owned market for drivers wanting traditional British luxury mixed with modern mild-hybrid pep.
Powertrain and Performance Breakdown
Under the aluminum hood lies a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine working alongside an electric supercharger and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup eliminates turbo lag by spooling up instantly before exhaust gases take over.
- Horsepower: 395 hp at 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 406 lb-ft from 2,000 to 5,000 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic
- Drivetrain: Full-time intelligent all-wheel drive
On the road, power delivery feels linear and authoritative. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts imperceptibly during normal cruising, though it drops down gears quickly when you demand a rapid overtake. Fuel economy sits around 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway (roughly 11.5 L/100km combined), which is respectable for a heavy luxury vehicle weighing over 2,200 kilograms.
Distinctive Exterior and Interior Design
The HST package stands out from standard Land Rover variants through specific aesthetic choices. Exterior carbon fiber trim adorns the hood vent, grille surround, and tailgate finisher. It also features a contrasting Santorini Black roof, red brake calipers, and unique 21-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the cabin swaps standard leather for tactile touches.
- Upholstery: Windsor leather seats combined with Suedecloth bolsters on the steering wheel and gear shifter.
- Trim: Bright carbon fiber interior finishers replace standard wood veneers.
- Audio: A 19-speaker Meridian surround sound system comes standard, delivering crisp acoustics across all seating positions.
Legroom and headroom are generous for front and rear occupants, though the sloping roofline slightly limits maximum boxy cargo capacity compared to the boxier full-sized Range Rover. The rear seats split 60/40 and fold flat to expand the luggage area for longer items.
Ride Quality and Off-Road Capability
Equipped with electronic air suspension, the HST smooths out broken pavement, potholes, and gravel tracks with ease. The system automatically lowers the vehicle at highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag, and raises it when you select an off-road terrain mode.
Through the Terrain Response 2 system, you can dial in settings for mud, ruts, sand, or snow. Paired with a twin-speed transfer box providing high and low ranges, this SUV retains genuine trail credentials despite its sporting intentions. Towing capacity peaks at 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs), allowing you to haul heavy trailers or boats without strain.
Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
Shopping for a pre-owned luxury SUV requires looking past clean paint and shiny wheels. Keep these pitfalls in mind:
- Ignoring Service Records: Complex electrical architecture and air suspension components require strict adherence to maintenance schedules. Always verify past dealer servicing.
- Overlooking Tire Wear: Because of its heavy curb weight and all-wheel-drive system, the HST can chew through performance tires quickly. Check tread depth evenly across all four corners.
- Skipping Electronic Diagnostics: Test every screen, camera, and seat adjuster before finalizing a purchase. Infotainment gremlins can be expensive to diagnose out of warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 Range Rover Sport HST a hybrid?
It features a mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) system. It cannot run on electricity alone like a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), but it captures decelerating energy to assist the engine and smooth out start-stop functions.
How does the HST differ from the HSE Dynamic?
The HST swaps certain standard leather trim pieces for Suedecloth and carbon fiber accents, adds standard unique 21-inch wheels, and utilizes the 395-hp tune of the inline-six engine, sitting one step higher in performance and sport styling.
What is the towing capacity of this model?
It can tow up to 3,500 kilograms (7,716 pounds) when equipped with a proper trailer braking system, matching the heavier V8 variants in practical utility.
Does the 2022 model feature the new interior layout?
No. The 2022 model year represents the final year of the previous generation design. The redesigned interior with floating curved displays arrived for the 2023 model year.
