A luxury SUV that invokes
by Jeremy Webb
The new Evoque launched in November 2018, to much expectation as the first generation model had been so popular. It enters a market which is growing in sales and models from nearly all manufacturers. It is a luxury compact SUV competing with the likes of the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Volvo XC60. Pricing starts at £31,600 which for a luxury car is superb value, especially when you see what you get for your money.
The range has a variety of engines covering petrol, diesel, Hybrid-electric and PHEV. The ICE models come with either three or four-cylinder Ingenium engines. The three-cylinder option will be available within twelve months so I drove the four-cylinder petrol 178bhp car. I was very impressed with the performance of the engine and gearbox, which combined to deliver a great drive. Quieter and smoother than the outgoing model, especially noticeable when driving around town.
The 150PS entry-level engine delivers 0-100Km/ in 10.5 secs and has a top speed of 201Km/h. It returns on combined trip 52.3mpg which is impressive. Move up to the top powered 300PS engine and it will push you along from 0-100Km/h in 6.6secs, on to 242Km/h top speed. The increased power has a knock-on effect on fuel consumption with a combined trip figure of 34.9mpg.
Handling is great, with four-wheel drive standard apart from the entry level which is front wheel drive. Land Rover has introduced Driveline Disconnect which allows the car to be two-wheel drive when cruising at speed, increasing improving mpg. You always feel secure when tackling any type of road or trail for that matter, if you venture off the highways.
The Evoque has increased interior space which is very noticeable in the rear, benefitting passengers with more leg and knee room. It is also easier to enter and exit the rear now. Boot size also increases by about 10% to 591 litres allowing for plenty of shopping, luggage and a large pram.
Three trim levels are available with S, SE and top of the range HSE, this gives leather seats and 380w Meridian sound system and the great bit of technology the Clearsight rear-view mirror system. The mirror becomes a display connected to a rear-facing camera allowing the driver to see clearly what is behind the car not just when reversing. Forward facing cameras on the door mirrors link with the main display to allow the driver to see what is at ground level in front of him. Particularly useful when going off-road and you need to see the surface conditions.
The new Evoque improves on the previous generation but keeps its identity, so you know exactly what to expect when you own one. The cars will be available this spring and they will prove very popular as the first generation was. I certainly wouldn’t mind owning one after my experience driving the car for a few days. The model is a Tour de Force of technology and it really does invoke the feel of luxury. A test drive is the only way to take in all the Evoque has to offer and that is so much.
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