Kingsley introduces new KSR Range Rover

Probably you already know of Kingsley Re-Engineered, it having restored more than 500 classic Range Rovers since 2001; recently its builds have included the ULEZ Reborn cars. Now under new group ownership and management, Kingsley has embarked on perhaps its boldest project yet: the KSR Range Rover Classic.

While the brief is reasonably familiar – lovingly restore and methodically improve an old Range – the KSR is Kingsley’s most drastic overhaul yet. The interior features a new in-house designed and engineered centre console (which is easier to reach for occupants) and instrument panel alongside the traditional buttons and veneers. Maybe some might find the fonts a tad too modern, though there’s plenty of old-school swag to be distracted by. CarPlay, extra cupholders and some lavish upholstery options are, of course, part of the KSR deal too. Kingsley says the revamp of inside delivers ‘a modern experience while retaining some of the beloved features of old’. And perhaps most importantly, the new dash design includes a longer windscreen demist vent, which in conjunction with the redone air-con, should make cold mornings a little easier to deal with. 

The standard powertrain for the KSR is a Kingsley ‘High Torque’ V8 and four-speed auto combo, the familiar 4.6 rated at 274hp (270bhp) and a burly 310lb ft; that’s enough to haul the old Range to 60mph in less than 10 seconds and onto more than 120mph. Those after a bit more welly can have a Chevrolet LS3 or LT1 instead (both 6.2-litres), with ‘specifically optimised six-speed gearbox pairings’. So good job there’s a big brake kit as standard also. 

Additionally, the KSR will be the first Kinglsey RR – told you they were going all out on this one – to feature Tractive adaptive suspension. It will have driver-selectable modes via a button inside; Kingsley suggests the advanced suspension is another feature that makes this car ‘a compelling option for those seeking a modern twist on a classic.’ We’ve all seen plenty of redone Range Rovers by now, from EV conversions to factory restorations, with companies like Kingsley upping their game to stay competitive. To stand out in a busy marketplace, serious upgrades are required – hence a new dash and Tractive suspension. 

John Sawbridge, Kingsley MD, said: “The KSR is the ultimate embodiment of our groundbreaking vision for the future. We’ve completely modernised the Range Rover Classic without compromising an ounce of the timeless charm or beauty of this iconic car. Stepping inside the KSR reveals an extraordinary experience, distinctly unlike any vehicle we’ve ever created. And, when you drive it – you realise it’s a step above any Range Rover Classic – becoming the most superior Kingsley ever built. We firmly believe this to be the best and most thoughtfully re-engineered [Range Rover] Classic in the world.” Quite the claim – good job it looks like quite the car

And quite the price. KSR builds are from £220,000 plus VAT, so more than a quarter of a million. And it’s hard to imagine the example in the pics, with Brewster Green paint, Chestnut leather and Boxweave carpets, is as cheap as a Kingsley can be. Still, the good stuff never was affordable, and the Range Rover restomod fascination shows no signs of slowing down. Just imagine Venetian Red with gold pinstriping, plus all the Kingsley goodness…