The Range Rover KV6 2.5L is a 2,497 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2004. It features a 24 — valve, dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with variable inlet cam timing (VCT) on later variants, delivering 130–140 kW (177–190 PS) and 235–240 Nm of torque. Its compact 60° V — angle and narrow profile enabled transverse mounting in larger SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the P38A Range Rover and Discovery II (Series 2), the KV6 2.5L was engineered for sm…
Production years 1999–2004 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2341).
The Range Rover KV6 2.5L is a 2,497 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size SUVs (1999–2004). It combines a 60° V-angle with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and compact packaging. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it offered improved refinement over predecessor V8 units while maintaining robust towing capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,497 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 78.5 mm | |
Power output | 130–140 kW (177–190 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 235–240 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.0) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual electric fans | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Rover STJLR.03.5001 (SAE 10W-40) | |
Dry weight | 172 kg |
The Range Rover KV6 2.5L was used across Land Rover's P38A and Discovery Series II platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Discovery II and updated cooling ducts in the P38A—and from mid-2001 the head gasket and coolant rail design was revised to address thermal stress. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The KV6 2.5L's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure at the rear of the cylinder head, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate use. Land Rover internal data from 2002 indicated a notable share of pre-2001 engines requiring head work before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter degradation as a common MOT emissions failure. Extended coolant intervals and low-quality antifreeze increase corrosion and thermal stress, making adherence to OEM maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1999–2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). 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 KV6 2.5L offers smooth, refined performance but has known issues with head gasket integrity in early builds (pre-2001). With strict adherence to coolant changes (every 60,000 km), use of correct 10W-40 oil, and avoidance of sustained high-load driving, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km reliably.
Top issues include head gasket failure at rear cylinders, timing chain tensioner wear, intake vacuum leaks, and catalytic converter degradation. These are documented in Land Rover SIBs 05/2001/12 and 02/2000/08, and commonly appear in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles.
The KV6 2.5L powered the Range Rover P38A (1999–2002) and Discovery II (1999–2004). It was exclusive to these models and not used by other manufacturers. All units meet Euro 3 emissions standards.
Limited potential. As a naturally aspirated engine, gains are modest—typically +10–20 kW via ECU remap and intake/exhaust upgrades. The engine responds well to breathing improvements, but lacks forced-induction headroom. Aggressive tuning may increase thermal stress and reduce head gasket longevity.
Real-world consumption is ~14.2 L/100km (city) and ~10.0 L/100km (highway), or about 20 mpg UK combined. Expect 18–22 mpg (UK) depending on driving style and vehicle load. Premium 95 RON fuel is required for optimal performance and knock prevention.
Yes. The KV6 2.5L is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can collide with open valves, causing severe internal damage. Regular inspection of chain tensioners and guides is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Land Rover specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting STJLR.03.5001. This formulation ensures proper lubrication of the chain-driven valvetrain. Oil should be changed every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RANGE-ROVER Official Site
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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
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