Your style-forward mate
“The Evoque harden its presence within the Range Rover segment”
“Although the Evoque is the entry model to Range Rover, the new one gives you the amenities of its bigger siblings”
“Way better and more capable”
“Just as it did before, the Evoque is going to be the next best-selling model!” said Issam.
As seen in the previous generation of Evoque, I can surely admit with no doubt that this model is going to be the next best-selling model, just improvising … Well basically not at all. I still reckon when we first test drove the first generation of Evoque back in Liverpool in summer 2011. Yes it feels like yesterday! But I can assure you that the Evoque that you all loved has kept the same DNA but with a lot of amenities that you dreamt of on its larger siblings. I was truly impressed by the Evoque. However, the one thing I can always say it to whoever asks my opinion is that the Evoque is no more a pure feminine SUV choice. Keep that in mind!
Exterior
Regarding the look, it remains the same as an overall silhouette but in reality it is a completely new model. At first sight you can’t mistake the design’s new details that were introduced on its larger sibling, the Velar. Built on the original’s instantly-recognizable design, the new Range Rover Evoque is a sophisticated evolution of the distinctive coupé-like silhouette, typified by its distinctive fast roofline and rising waist that identify the Range Rover family. The outstanding volume and proportions are amplified by its pronounced shoulders and powerful wheelarches that, alongside 21-inch wheels, combine to create a strong and dynamic attitude.
The introduction of jewel-like elements such as super-slim Matrix LED headlamps provides a more sophisticated front and rear lamp graphic. Flush door handles, similar to the Velar, add to the smooth, sculpted aesthetic, while sweeping directional indicators create a purposeful signature. Optional R-Dynamic details and burnished copper accents add to the unique appeal.
Interior
When I got into the new Evoque, I immediately felt merged with the whole new design concept that was presented on the Velar and known by the dual center screens. The interior cockpit has been finely crafted and integrated uncluttered surfaces and simple lines with carefully curated premium materials to create a luxurious, minimalist, digital cabin. Technical textiles that use recycled plastics are offered as premium alternatives to leather, such as a Kvadrat wool blend and Dinamica suedecloth, as well as Eucalyptus and Ultrafabrics options. The cabin is designed to be a calm and serene space, ensuring comfortable, healthy and happy occupants, with technologies such as the twin touchscreen Touch Pro Duo system, featuring new, faster software, 16-way seat controls and cabin air ionization that complement the increased interior space.
New Features
In its every bit, Range Rover, the compact SUV combines all-terrain capability with all-weather assurance. The new Evoque features All-Wheel Drive, as well as a second-generation Active Driveline with Driveline Disconnect to enhance efficiency and Adaptive Dynamics to deliver the optimum balance of comfort and agility. Terrain Response 2 – technology first found on full-size Range Rover – automatically detects the surface being driven on and adjusts the set-up accordingly, while Evoque can now wade through water up to 600mm (compared to 500mm previously).
Combining all-terrain capability with on-road composure, the Evoque’s new MacPherson Hydrobush front and Integral Link rear suspension and Adaptive Dynamics technology deliver not only improved refinement and stability in all conditions, but enables the agile handling that makes Evoque ideal for the tight city streets of many countries around the world.
The new Range Rover Evoque is also the first in the world to feature Ground View technology, which effectively makes the bonnet invisible by projecting camera imagery onto the upper touchscreen to show the driver a 180-degree view under the front of the vehicle. This is useful when negotiating difficult parking spaces, navigating high city-center kerbs or tackling rough terrain, and is the realization of the Transparent Bonnet technology previewed by Land Rover in 2014.
You can find as well the reverse camera as standard on all models, alongside a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist, which centers the vehicle in the lane based on road markings, as well as maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Active safety features such as Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Driver Condition Monitor are all available to keep occupants safe.
Drivetrain
Controlled, comfortable and confident, the latest Range Rover Evoque builds on the strengths of the best-selling original. Combining all-terrain capability with on-road composure, the Evoque’s new vehicle architecture, updated front and rear suspension and the latest Adaptive Dynamics technology deliver improved refinement, performance, safety and stability in all conditions. The Range Rover Evoque is based on Land Rover’s new mixed-metal Premium Transverse Architecture, which has been designed for hybrid-electric power– 48-volt mild hybrid, 3-cylinder Plug-in Hybrid – and three- and four-cylinder Ingenium petrol and diesel engines. The new body is 13% stiffer than its predecessor, which together with rigidly-mounted subframes reduces noise and vibration intrusion into the cabin. With a 21mm longer wheelbase and compact new suspension design, the compact SUV delivers increased interior room and improved handling in all conditions.
The Ingenium engines have been advanced with new technologies to make them quieter and more refined, while the ZF nine-speed automatic gearbox has been recalibrated to ensure a smoother, more progressive drive on all terrains.
Driving Impressions
What about the driving experience versus the outgoing model? The Range Rover Evoque still has more off-road capability than a typical owner will ever need in a hundred lifetimes. I am pretty sure that none of the Evoque owners will take it to its maximum performance. But we did it in Greece and we did it in an exceptional way. How exceptional? I never imagined I could cross obstacles, I mean hard obstacles, while driving an Evoque. I would cross them in a Land Rover Discovery but yet the Evoque has successfully demonstrated incredible abilities. Don’t come to the Evoque looking for the bigger Range Rover’s low-range gearbox or locking differentials but be sure that with the available driving modes (sand, snow, mud and rots, etc…) you can drive in any conditions and anywhere you want.
Verdict
After a two-days trip in Greece – perfect spot for such a perfect SUV – I have never thought that Land Rover would put all their abilities and power on such a new SUV. I think I know the reason and most of you know the reason. It’s pretty simple: Evoque was the best-selling model at a time when Land Rover moved from Ford ownership to Tata ownership and wanted to prove that they can produce a luxury compact SUV to go anywhere you would imagine. If you were dreaming of a Range Rover with all the gadgets that you can picture, you can find them now in the Evoque. And yes a truly big “Hello” Evoque…
Rivals: Audi Q5, BMW X3, BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, Jaguar E-Pace, Porsche Macan
Pros: Masculine character, bold look similar to the Velar, efficient engine, pleasant interior, many high-tech features standard on the Evoque
Cons: highest trim costs a fortune, Touch Pro Duo can be distracting to use, low roofline bothers to get in and out from the rear
4.5 / 5 stars
One word: companion
Specs
2.0-liter turbocharged, 4-cylinders, 250 hp @ 5,500 rpm, 365 Nm @ 1,300-4,500 rpm
AWD, 9-speed automatic ZF
0-100 kph: 7.5 secs, top speed: 230 kph, fuel consumption: 7.9L/ 100 km
Weight: 1,818-1,893 kg