Range Rover Evoque review | 4×4 Review

The standard equipment list is generous, while higher-spec models bring full-fat Range Rover appointments. But, the it’s the Benefit-in-Kind savings for business users that will make the plug-in hybrid version particularly appealing.

About the Range Rover Evoque

While SUV rivals including the BMW X2 offer a more engaging driving experience, the Evoque provides a focus on luxury and comfort that most buyers will prefer. And while it’s likely that Evoques will be sold on looks alone, it’s encouraging that the car once again represents a viable alternative to favourites like the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40 and even JLR’s own Jaguar E-Pace.

The Evoque is the smallest Range Rover model that Land Rover produces and in its original form – introduced in 2011 – it was a car that set a precedent as a small yet luxurious SUV aimed squarely at a niche in the market.

The Evoque went on to be one of the British manufacturer’s best-sellers, but after the best part of a decade on sale the original model was falling behind rivals that it had inspired, including the Audi Q3, the Mercedes GLA and Lexus NX. The latest model addresses this, offering evolutionary styling adjustments plus major changes under the skin.

The latest Range Rover Evoque is based on Land Rover’s Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA), a heavily modified version of the outgoing car’s D8 platform. The new car takes up much the same space on the road, but the wheelbase is now longer to help increase rear passenger space – a sticking point for the old car. The new platform brings with it up-to-date 48-volt mild-hybrid electrification and has also paved the way for a plug-in hybrid model to join the range.

The Range Rover Evoque is available with a choice of two diesel engines, three petrols and a plug-in hybrid unit, all coming with four-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic gearbox – although the entry diesel model is offered in front-wheel-drive form, too.

There are five basic equipment levels – Evoque, Evoque S, R-Dynamic, Edition, HST and Autobiography. The top-spec Autobiography trim is only available in combination with the higher-powered petrol or diesel versions, and also with the plug-in hybrid variant.

Used and nearly new

The Evoque is Land Rover’s best-selling model, so buyers looking for a decent used example should be spoilt for choice. Stylish and good to drive, the compact SUV ably represents the Land Rover brand, offering a more affordable entry point into ownership than many of its bigger, more luxurious siblings.

It may not be the most practical SUV and reliability can sometimes be an issue, but it offers tremendous kerb appeal and will suit families who want a comfortable cruiser with a little added sophistication.

Range Rover Evoque history

Range Rover Evoque Mk1: 2011-2018

Based on the 2008 Land Rover LRX Concept, the first generation Evoque was launched in 2011 with three- and five-door models available. It won our Car of the Year award during its debut year, while its impressive engineering has meant even older models still look modern and fresh today.

Both petrol and diesel-engined Evoque’s should be in good supply, while you might want to keep an eye out for the facelifted car which arrived in 2015 with updated exterior styling, more efficient engines, revised tech and improved safety features. And, if you’re after top down, wind-in-your-hair driving fun, there is the ultra-rare convertible model to consider.