When Range Rover revealed the new concept LRX in a London design event, attended by Victoria Beckham, some years ago, few imagined that the statuesque model (the LRX not Victoria) would revolutionize the compact sporty SUV segment.
The design signature was not to everyone’s taste at the time, but it has established itself over the years as a pivotal car for Range Rover and indeed for the industry.
The LRX morphed to become the Evoque with minor design changes.
The Evoque is designed to turn heads, as confirmed by critics and fans alike.
Its impact was such that even some German companies modified their concept SUV designs to emulate the Evoque.
The segment has developed now to become the fastest growing trend in the market and companies can’t produce compact SUVs fast enough.
Magical gearbox
For 2014, the Evoque acquires a smooth nine-speed auto gearbox that contributes to a much improved economy — in addition to extra options and creature comforts.
For the first time in an automatic Evoque stop-start technology is on offer.
Its compact dimensions would suit many SUV young drivers in the region.
Testing an Evoque for a week in the UK proved to be a rewarding experience.
The car is classy and attractive from the outside but the real attraction of the Evoque is in the luxurious cabin, the seating commanding position and ease of driving.
The test car came in Santorini black with panoramic roof, ebony premium leather seats and ebony black strata brushed aluminum veneer.
Even the wheels were in 20 inch black forged alloys.
The all-black combination, including the black privacy glass, gave the car a mysterious, even a touch sinister appearance.
Yet, the inside is both soft and high tech.
The test car has such options as heated steering wheel, rear seat entertainment, Intelligent, Lux and Black packs.
These packs include features such as Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Powered Tailgate, Digital TV, Surround Camera System, Blind Spot Monitor and keyless entry.
Buyers will have to be careful in their choice of options as these can pump up the price by up to $15 K.
Most of these options are from the flagship Range Rover.
The drive in a new Evoque is quite smooth due to the new gearbox and the excellent drivetrain.
The engine is a turbo charged 4WD 2.0 liter petrol which delivers 240 PS with lower fuel consumption and 20 percent reduction and CO2 emissions.
It covers a combined cycle of 36.2 MPG; not bad for a vehicle of that size and weight. Emission is a mere 181 g/km.
For an SUV, the Evoque is responsive and car-like in its road behavior.
Although, rear visibility is still an issue due to its unique design, the reverse camera and monitor more than compensate for this shortcoming.
One of the useful options was the reverse cross traffic detection which warns of potential cross hazards during reversing.
The Evoque is comfortable on long journeys and the auto nine-speed gearbox is a major feature. Although drivers have the benefit of manual paddles behind the steering wheel, the system is so smooth and efficient, paddles are hardly needed.
In the UK and Europe, sales of the Evoque are showing no signs of slowing.
The car is regarded as a design icon and a fashion statement.
This notion has not reached the Gulf markets yet as large 4x4 dominate the scene. This is likely to change once young consumers sample the new crop of compact SUVs, including the brilliant Evoque.
These are practical and desirable cars with strong residuals and are fun to drive.
However, having no spare wheel may not go down well in the region.
The segment also includes BMW X3 and Audi Q3 and will soon include such rivals as the Lexus NX and Hyundai ix25.
If you are thinking of buying a compact SUV, test-drive an Evoque and discover a new pleasure in SUV driving.