The Range Rover L322 (2002-2012) represented a major step forward from the P38A (1994-2001), both in engineering and philosophy. Development began in the mid-1990s under BMW ownership of Land Rover, with the aim of modernising the Range Rover into a vehicle that could compete directly with luxury flagships like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, while retaining the off-road supremacy of its predecessors. Where the previous P38 used an evolution of the original 1970 Range Rover's ladder-frame chassis, the L322 moved to a monocoque (integrated body-frame) structure. Derived from BMW's technology (notably the 7 Series E38 floorpan), which gave it vastly improved torsional rigidity and refinement. Petrol versions were launched with the ultra-refined BMW M62 4.4 V8 and later included Jaguar AJ-V8s and latterly the FoMoCo co-developed AJ133, offering far more powerful and comparably efficient options than the Buick-derived V8s of Range Rover generations past. The integration of BMW's electrical architecture, high-level infotainment, advanced driver aids, and more robust electronic systems also made the new car feel more like revolution than evolution.

This highly-desirable example was first registered in 2005 and supplied by Land Rover Japan. Offered by its first UK private owner who personally imported from Japan, the car is a Grade 4 (with supporting documents). Finished in Java Black with Parchment/Navy leather interior, its equipment includes Xenon headlamps, UK touchscreen navigation, electro-chromatic mirrors, air conditioning, rain sensor wipers, automatic headlights, front and rear heated seats, heated windscreen, heated steering wheel, twin sun-visors, MPH instrument pack, park distance control, extremely rare body coloured roof finishers, side finishers and handles, sunroof, 19'' Style 3 wheels, cherry wood trim, premium Harmon/Kardon Audio, genuine Land Rover wind deflectors and finally a removable roof rack.

The 2005 model year car is a desirable crossover model as it benefits from touchscreen navigation but retains the earlier cars' adjustable contour seats, manual handbrake and simple yet tough BMW M62 engine. This car has a strong service record with paperwork and history available from its time in Japan and since its arrival in the UK has been freshly serviced and is ready to be enjoyed. Fitted with four matching Dunlop tyres, this car is expedition ready. The great versatility that the L322 offers has meant many have covered high mileage and low mileage cars are few and far between and rust has killed off many. This car is very different; it has covered just 36,700 miles from new, presenting very well and with the vendor advising us that the wheel arches and sills show no signs of rust. The other perks of a Japanese import include a lower tax rate of just £360 a year. Supplied with a V5C registration document and paperwork mainly from its life in Japan, this wonderful example represents a rare chance to buy an excellent example in a desirable colour combination and with a low mileage. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 2005
Make: Range Rover
Model: 4.4 V8 Vogue
Registration: LF05 NXK
Chassis No: SALLMAMA35A180257
Odometer: 36,700

* Covered just 36,700 miles from new
* Strong provenance
* Rare factory specified body-coloured exterior finishers
* Desirable colour combination