The 2025 Range Rover Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Autobiography is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement of luxury, power, and heritage. As I slid behind the wheel of this $170,900 behemoth in St. Louis, Missouri, I was eager to discover if it lived up to its reputation as the pinnacle of premium SUVs. With its BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, opulent interior, and legendary off-road capability, the EWB Autobiography promises to blend chauffeured comfort with commanding performance. After a day of city cruising, highway stretches, and a brief off-road jaunt, here’s the unfiltered verdict on whether this Range Rover delivers on its lofty promises.
A Legacy of Luxury and Versatility
The Range Rover name has been synonymous with luxury since its debut in 1970. Originally designed to bridge the gap between rugged utility and refined comfort, it carved a niche as the world’s first premium 4×4. From vinyl seats and diesel engines to the modern era of hand-stitched leather and plug-in hybrids, the Range Rover has evolved while retaining its dual identity: a favorite of royals and farmers alike. The fifth-generation model, introduced in 2022, doubles down on technology, customization, and presence. The Autobiography trim, first launched in 2005, represents the zenith of this evolution, offering features like rear-seat champagne fridges and massaging seats.
The 2025 EWB Autobiography stretches the wheelbase by nearly eight inches compared to the standard model, prioritizing rear-seat luxury. Priced at $170,900 for the long-wheelbase version with the P530 powertrain (523 horsepower), it competes with the likes of the Bentley Bentayga and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. But does it justify its six-figure price tag? Let’s dive into the experience.
First Impressions: A Design That Commands Attention
From the moment I approached the Range Rover EWB Autobiography, its presence was undeniable. Parked outside the dealership, finished in Santorini Black with 23-inch forged alloy wheels, it exuded understated sophistication. The reductive design—clean lines, a floating roof, and a minimalist “boat tail” rear—makes it instantly recognizable without being ostentatious. The vertical taillights, hidden until illuminated, add a touch of modern flair, while the gesture-operated split tailgate feels like a nod to the future.
Stepping inside, I was enveloped by a cabin that redefines opulence. The semi-aniline leather seats, soft to the touch, were complemented by open-pore wood veneers and knurled aluminum controls. The 13.1-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen, slightly curved and floating, dominated the center console, while a 13.7-inch digital driver display offered crisp graphics. The rear cabin, the true star of the EWB, felt like a private jet. With nearly a meter of legroom, Executive Class seats with hot-stone massage functions, and dual 11.4-inch entertainment screens, it’s a space designed for tycoons or royalty. A refrigerated console compartment and electric sunshades sealed the deal—this is a vehicle that pampers.
On the Road: Power Meets Serenity
Sliding into the driver’s seat, I adjusted the 24-way heated and cooled seat and fired up the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. Sourced from BMW, this engine produces 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The claimed 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds seemed ambitious for a 6,000-pound SUV, but as I merged onto I-64, the Range Rover dispelled any doubts. The power delivery was seamless, with a tidal wave of torque propelling the vehicle forward effortlessly. Overtaking slower traffic felt almost comically easy, the V8’s muted rumble adding a subtle soundtrack to the experience.
The air suspension, a hallmark of the Range Rover, worked magic on St. Louis’s uneven roads. Potholes and expansion joints were absorbed with a composure that rivaled a Rolls-Royce. In Comfort mode, the ride was plush, isolating passengers from the outside world. Switching to Dynamic mode firmed up the suspension, reducing body roll in corners, but the Range Rover never pretended to be a sports car. Its steering, while accurate, was light, prioritizing ease over feedback. This is a wafter, not a fighter, designed to glide rather than carve.
On the highway, the cabin’s refinement shone. Active noise cancellation, integrated into the 1600-watt Meridian stereo’s headrest speakers, kept wind and road noise at bay. At 70 mph, the interior was library-quiet, save for the gentle hum of the V8. The adaptive cruise control with steering assist made long stretches effortless, though the haptic steering wheel controls were occasionally finicky. Fuel economy, rated at 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway, hovered around 18 mpg during mixed driving—not stellar, but expected for a vehicle of this size and power.
Off-Road Prowess: Still a Range Rover at Heart
No Range Rover review is complete without testing its off-road credentials. I took the EWB Autobiography to a nearby off-road park with muddy trails and rocky inclines. Engaging the Terrain Response 3.0 system, I let the SUV’s cameras and sensors analyze the terrain. The system automatically adjusted throttle, braking, and suspension for optimal traction. In Mud mode, the Range Rover clawed through slippery ruts with ease, its 900mm wading depth and locking differentials ensuring no hesitation. Hill descent control managed steep drops flawlessly, applying individual brakes to maintain a steady pace.
The all-wheel steering, standard on the EWB, proved surprisingly handy in tight trails, shrinking the turning circle to that of a compact car. However, the 23-inch wheels and low-profile tires felt like a liability on sharp rocks—I winced at the thought of scuffing those $5,000 rims. Still, the Range Rover’s off-road capability remains unmatched among luxury SUVs. While few owners will venture beyond gravel driveways, the knowledge that it can conquer the wilderness adds to its mystique.
Technology and Features: A Mixed Bag
The 2025 Range Rover EWB Autobiography is a technological tour de force, but it’s not without quirks. The Pivi Pro infotainment system is intuitive, with sharp graphics and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. The 13.1-inch touchscreen responded quickly, though its glossy finish attracted fingerprints. The rear-seat touchscreen controller, mounted in the center armrest, allowed passengers to adjust climate, seats, and entertainment with ease. A 3D surround camera system made parking a breeze, displaying a crystal-clear view of the surroundings.
However, some features felt like overkill. The gesture-controlled tailgate, while futuristic, was inconsistent, requiring multiple waves to activate. The walk-away locking system occasionally failed to engage, leaving me double-checking the app. And while the driver-assistance suite—blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise—was comprehensive, it wasn’t as polished as competitors like the BMW X7. The Range Rover’s tech is impressive but lacks the seamless execution of its German rivals.
The Rear-Seat Experience: Where the Magic Happens
To truly understand the EWB Autobiography, I swapped seats and played passenger. Reclining in the Executive Class rear seats, I activated the hot-stone massage function and sipped a chilled drink from the fridge. The panoramic sunroof bathed the cabin in light, and the thick-pile carpets begged for bare feet. Watching a movie on the 11.4-inch screen with noise-canceling headphones, I forgot I was in an SUV. The extended wheelbase transforms the rear into a sanctuary, perfect for long journeys or chauffeured commutes.
However, the rear thrones come at a cost. The seats don’t fold flat, limiting cargo versatility. With the second row upright, cargo space is 40.9 cubic feet, expanding to 92.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. For comparison, the standard-wheelbase model offers 40.7 and 83.5 cubic feet, respectively. If you prioritize luggage over luxury, the EWB’s compromises may sting.
The Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The Range Rover EWB Autobiography faces stiff competition in the luxury SUV segment. The Bentley Bentayga, starting at $200,000, offers more bespoke craftsmanship but lacks the Range Rover’s off-road chops. The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, priced around $140,000, is tech-heavy and spacious but feels less exclusive. The BMW X7, starting at $100,000, is a value leader with sharper handling, but its interior can’t match the Range Rover’s ambiance. For buyers seeking a blend of heritage, capability, and presence, the Range Rover remains unmatched, though its price and complexity demand commitment.
The Verdict: Worth the Price?
After a day with the 2025 Range Rover EWB Autobiography, I’m both smitten and sobered. Its strengths are undeniable: a serene ride, a jaw-dropping interior, and off-road prowess that shames most SUVs. The V8’s effortless power and the rear cabin’s decadence make every journey an event. It’s a vehicle that turns heads and elevates its driver’s status, whether parked at a country club or crawling through a forest.
Yet, it’s not perfect. The tech, while advanced, occasionally stumbles. Fuel economy is predictably poor, and maintenance costs for a $170,000 SUV with a history of electrical gremlins (one owner reported a quick fix for an electrical issue) give pause. The competition offers compelling alternatives at lower price points or with more polished execution.
For the right buyer—someone who values heritage, exclusivity, and unmatched versatility—the Range Rover EWB Autobiography is worth every penny. It’s not just a car; it’s a lifestyle. For those who demand perfection or prioritize value, the compromises may loom large. As I handed back the keys, I couldn’t help but smile. This Range Rover doesn’t just meet expectations; it redefines them, flaws and all.
