When the current generation Range Rover was designed and developed under BMW tutelage, the major use aluminum frames and body parts was too expensive and not as important as it is today with the fuel economy pressures.? As a result, the iconic Land Rover SUV ended up the equivalent of a solid, heavyweight NFL lineman, tipping the scale at more than 5,600 pounds, but the Range Rover needed lots of power and fuel.

As the next generation takes shape behind closed doors, there are reports of a major weight loss regiment, a new lightweight aluminum architecture strongly influenced by Jaguar experiences and new engine variations. The trim fourth-generation Range Rover is expected to make the runway at the Paris auto show this fall, about 600 pounds lighter than the previous model.? In 2013, we can expect the Discover and Range Rover Sport replacements to get a similar trimming. According to Automotive News, the Range Rovers should arrive at U.S. dealerships in early 2013.?