The Range Rover 12C petrol engine is a 5,000 cc, supercharged V8 internal combustion engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection, and a Roots — type supercharger, delivering 375–405 kW (510–550 PS) and 625–680 Nm of torque. Variable valve timing enables strong low — rpm response and high — end power for both on — and off — road performance.
Fitted to the L322 and early L405 Range Rover models—including the Supercha…
All production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Range Rover 12C Petrol is a 5,000 cc supercharged V8 engineered for full-size luxury SUVs (2010–2016). It combines direct fuel injection with a Roots-type supercharger to deliver high torque across a broad rev range and refined high-speed performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances dynamic capability with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,000 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32‑valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged | |
Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
Power output | 375–405 kW (510–550 PS) | |
Torque | 625–680 Nm @ 2,500–5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Roots-type supercharger (Eaton TVS) | |
Timing system | Chain (dual‑stage tensioners) | |
Oil type | Land Rover STJLR.03.5004 (SAE 5W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 220 kg |
The Range Rover 12C Petrol was used across Land Rover's L322 and L405 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the L405 and revised cooling in the L322 Supercharged—and from 2013 the L405 adopted updated timing tensioners, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 12C's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure on pre-2013 builds, with elevated incidence in high-ambient-temperature or towing use. Land Rover internal field data from 2014 indicated over 15% of early L322 Supercharged engines required tensioner replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased MOT failures linked to supercharger coupler noise in high-mileage examples. Extended idling and oil degradation accelerate wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 12C offers exceptional performance but early models (2010–2012) have known timing tensioner issues. Post-2013 revisions improved durability significantly. With strict oil changes (every 16,000 km) using correct 5W‑20 spec and avoidance of chronic short-trip driving, the engine can exceed 200,000 km reliably.
Top issues include timing chain tensioner arm fracture, supercharger coupler wear, intake valve coking due to direct injection, and oil leaks from the valley cover. All are documented in Land Rover service bulletins, particularly SIB 02 13 07 and SIB 05 12 10.
The 5.0L supercharged V8 (12C) powered the L322 Range Rover Supercharged (2010–2012) and the L405 Range Rover Supercharged/Autobiography (2013–2016). It was not used in Sport or Discovery models during this period—those used the AJ133 variant.
Yes. The 12C responds well to ECU remapping, typically gaining +40–60 kW on stage 1 with stock hardware. Supporting upgrades (pulley, intercooler, exhaust) can push output beyond 600 PS. However, supercharger and timing system durability must be monitored closely under increased load.
Real-world consumption is high: expect 14–16 L/100km (17–20 mpg UK) combined. Highway cruising may reach 11 L/100km (26 mpg UK), but urban driving often exceeds 18 L/100km (16 mpg UK). Premium unleaded (RON 95+) is mandatory; RON 98 improves performance and reduces knock risk.
Yes. The 12C is an interference engine. If the timing chain jumps or breaks due to tensioner failure, pistons will contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Immediate attention to any timing-related noise is essential to prevent engine destruction.
Land Rover specifies SAE 5W‑20 synthetic oil meeting STJLR.03.5004. This low-viscosity oil is critical for supercharger bearing lubrication and timing tensioner function. Oil must be changed every 16,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RANGE-ROVER Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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