Range Rover all set to unleash the Evoque

Think Range Rover and the first thing that comes to your mind is a big boxy luxury SUV that can haul you to places other vehicles can only dream of. The said mantra has been universal with all Range/Land Rover’s and they have been doing extremely well even in the face of more modern competition. Times however change and Range/Land Rover’s have evolved with time as well. One look at the all new Range Rover Evoque is enough to point out that the evolution has definitely been for the better.

The Evoque arguably has to be the hottest looking Range Rover yet. While others may differ saying they preferred the butch old school design more, it’s the way the Evoque combines that old school charm with the more modern lithe look that draws attention in its favour. The Range Rover Evoque’s dramatic exterior is based directly on the LRX concept car, which drew worldwide acclaim for its fresh interpretation of classic Range Rover design cues.
Smart design and meticulous engineering has allowed the LRX concept to be turned into reality without compromising the core Range Rover values of luxury, refined performance and all-terrain capability. From the glittering lamps to the rally-like wheel arches and rear spoiler, the Evoque exudes crispness and desirability.

The delight continues in the cabin, with glistening switches and dials from pricier Range Rover models and beautifully upholstered and supportive seats in the front which, with the adjustable steering column, give a perfect driving position. Features from a higher grade of cars include one-touch interior lighting and the split-screen centre console display, which allows passengers to watch television or DVDs while the driver can see only the satellite navigation system.  A lower driving position offers a more sporting feel but retains Range Rover’s renowned Command Driving Position. Headroom is generous compared with traditional sporting saloons, despite the low-profile coupe roofline.
Expected to power the Evoque is a 2.0 litre turbo petrol pushing out close to 240 PS. While that will take care of the petrol heads, for the diesel lovers there will be a 2.2 litre common-rail turbo-diesel putting out a good 190 PS. Expect both powerplants to be mated to a 6-speed auto-box that will be transferring power to all four wheels.

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While it’s a given, that the Evoque will have a brilliant ride quality that we expect of all Rangies, it has been made sure that the dynamics have not been compromised in any sense. Adaptive Dynamics uses advanced MagneRide dampers to provide a supple, controlled ride. The suspension delivers even tighter body control, with flatter handling and sharper responses.
Then we come to the off-road bit. In addition to the extremely generous ground clearance, the car has significantly better breakover, approach and departure angles than other compact SUVs. The Evoque will be the first Range Rover to offer customers a choice between a full-time four-wheel-drive system, which delivers outstanding performance and traction on all surfaces, and an even lower carbon, front-wheel-drive option for further enhanced fuel economy.

Like what you read? Expect the launch of the evocative Evoque by the first week of November with prices starting from Rs. 50 lakh ex-showroom Mumbai. For all that moolah expect to get equipment galore. The Evoque’s standard list includes Range Rover’s Terrain Response off-road system, cruise control, a fixed panoramic glass roof, Xenon headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless go, climate control, electric adjust front seats, leather seats, paddle-shifters a touch-screen audio, Bluetooth connectivity and an 11-speaker Meridian audio system and then some. Expect even more gizmos in the premium variants. Keeping watching this space for a first drive followed by a grueling road test soon.