The Evoque, other than being fiercely handsome, has all the attributes of even the most majestic of Range Rovers, and this was purposefully done. Whether trimmed in Pure, Prestige or Dynamic, the Evoque serves up plenty of style and stance that keeps it from feeling “cheap”. From where I stand, the LR4 parked next to my Evoque is like a cousin from the same mother that seems rudimentary and plain by comparison.
With 19” and 20” wheels on the menu, varied colours and the 3- or 5-door body styles available, the Evoque has got lots going for it aesthetically. If the Coupé is dashing and bold, it's the 5-door that will win the higher take rate with its 1.5” of extra rear headroom, increased versatility and CUV looks.
The detailing of the body fluctuates slightly between trims. The Dynamic wins for emotional appeal with its deeper bumpers, enhanced rear spoiler and other add-ons. On the inside, other than the various colours of hide, nothing changes – that is to say, it's all good.
The Evoque's cabin is surprisingly roomy for front passengers, good for the rear. The materials used in these hip quarters are top-notch, not far from what you'd expect in a $100,000+ Range Rover. The presentation and craftsmanship are a delight and enticing.
The list of standard features is extensive and includes an 8” touchscreen, a 380-Watt Meridian (same make as in the McLaren MP4-12C) audio system, heated steering wheel, front seats and windshield, keyless entry and push-button start, and much more. There are numerous packages that can be tacked on to bring the price to over $60,000.
What is also included in every Evoque purchased is a 4-cylinder engine under the classic clamshell bonnet. Some members of the staff on hand for the launch noted that they were sceptical when they first heard that their baby Range Rover was to be powered by a 4-pot. Their concerns quickly melted away when they finally got to drive the vehicle.
I was optimistic, and am very pleased with the Ford-developed, Range-Rover-tweaked turbocharged 2.0L mill. With new cams, 10:1 compression and direct injection, it delivers a healthy 240hp and 250 lb.-ft of torque. Channelled through a 6-speed automatic Aisin transmission, the Evoque will reach 100 km/h in just over 7 seconds. Rest assured that this is no buzzy 4-cylinder: it is refined, smooth and displays but a hint of lag when the throttle is mashed, but it'll pull nicely to 5,000 rpm.
With 19” and 20” wheels on the menu, varied colours and the 3- or 5-door body styles available, the Evoque has got lots going for it aesthetically. If the Coupé is dashing and bold, it's the 5-door that will win the higher take rate with its 1.5” of extra rear headroom, increased versatility and CUV looks.
The detailing of the body fluctuates slightly between trims. The Dynamic wins for emotional appeal with its deeper bumpers, enhanced rear spoiler and other add-ons. On the inside, other than the various colours of hide, nothing changes – that is to say, it's all good.
The Evoque's cabin is surprisingly roomy for front passengers, good for the rear. The materials used in these hip quarters are top-notch, not far from what you'd expect in a $100,000+ Range Rover. The presentation and craftsmanship are a delight and enticing.
The list of standard features is extensive and includes an 8” touchscreen, a 380-Watt Meridian (same make as in the McLaren MP4-12C) audio system, heated steering wheel, front seats and windshield, keyless entry and push-button start, and much more. There are numerous packages that can be tacked on to bring the price to over $60,000.
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| The materials used in these hip quarters are top-notch, not far from what you'd expect in a $100,000+ Range Rover. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre/Auto123.com) |
What is also included in every Evoque purchased is a 4-cylinder engine under the classic clamshell bonnet. Some members of the staff on hand for the launch noted that they were sceptical when they first heard that their baby Range Rover was to be powered by a 4-pot. Their concerns quickly melted away when they finally got to drive the vehicle.
I was optimistic, and am very pleased with the Ford-developed, Range-Rover-tweaked turbocharged 2.0L mill. With new cams, 10:1 compression and direct injection, it delivers a healthy 240hp and 250 lb.-ft of torque. Channelled through a 6-speed automatic Aisin transmission, the Evoque will reach 100 km/h in just over 7 seconds. Rest assured that this is no buzzy 4-cylinder: it is refined, smooth and displays but a hint of lag when the throttle is mashed, but it'll pull nicely to 5,000 rpm.