LAND ROVER has long realised that it had to downsize if it was to survive, with ever increasing powers-that-be emphasis on emissions and lower fuel consumption.
So the smallest ever Range Rover – the Evoque – which launches next year, will be available from around £30,000 with two or four wheel drive.
But it will share all the up-market style of the other cars in the range and that coupe/4x4 shape is bound to appeal to buyers around the globe.
Based on the LRX concept, Land Rover’s engineers have managed to retain much of that design.
It will use the latest lightweight construction and petrol and diesel engines with stop/start.
A lower driving position will offer a more sporting feel but it retains the feeling of height which so many Range Rover owners love.
Engines will be completely updated 2.2-litre turbodiesels with either 190 or 150bhp and the front-wheel drive Evoque with the 150 engine is claimed to reach 58mpg with emissions of under 130g/km.
Interior
The Evoque’s cabin will be lavishly appointed with premium quality materials and the kind of British elegance so admired by Range Rover buyers.
Headroom is excellent compared with traditional sporting saloons, despite the low-profile coupé roofline there will be three trim levels – Pure, luxury Prestige and sporting Dynamic.
FAST FACTS
Range Rover Evoque
Price: £30,000
Mechanical: 150bhp, 2,179cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 115mph
0-62mph: 10 seconds
Combined mpg: 58
Insurance group: N/A
CO2 emissions: 130g/km
BIK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles
Marks: 10/10
Main rival: BMW X3