Range Rover Evoque: the smaller and greener crossover

Land Rover has revealed further details of its newest model the Range Rover Evoque that will make its first global public appearance at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The smaller and greener compact SUV from Land Rover is set to kick-off in the summer of 2011.

Bringing to reality the acclaimed Land Rover LRX concept car, the Evoque keeps faithful to the original design of the cross-coupé concept. The Evoque continues to deliver Land Rover’s premium levels of craftsmanship, luxury, performance and renowned all-terrain capability, now in more compact vehicle.

“These are exciting times for our business,” said CEO Dr Ralf Speth. “Not only will the Range Rover Evoque increase our worldwide market share, it helps to define a new segment for premium compact SUVs that are more sporting and stylish."

In Paris Land Rover will be presenting its lightest and most fuel-efficient Range Rover ever. With CO2 emissions of 130 g/km and fuel economy of 58 mpg in the combined cycle, the Evoque is being used to demonstrate the brand’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

“This is a highly relevant and contemporary vehicle that will suit the modern needs of our customers,” said Land Rover’s Managing Director Phil Popham. “The Range Rover Evoque will appeal to a new group of customers who may not have considered a Range Rover before.”

The use of lightweight construction techniques, the addition of a front-wheel drive variant as well as a range of state-of-the-art petrol and diesel engines which come with direct injection and stop-start justifies the efficiency achieved. The Evoque also features low CO2 systems such as Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) and is built to maximise end of life recyclability.

In terms of design, according to Land Rover Design Director, Gerry McGovern “The Evoque marks a bold evolution of Range Rover design. With its dramatic rising beltline, a muscular shoulder running the length of the car, and a distinctive taper to the floating roofline, the Range Rover Evoque adopts a very dynamic profile with a powerful and athletic stance.”

The Evoque will become the first Range Rover to offer a choice to customers between a full-time four-wheel-drive system and a low carbon, front-wheel-drive option. While the first delivers the best performance and traction on all surfaces the second further enhances fuel economy.

As for the engines customers will be able to choose between two updated 2.2-litre turbodiesel derivatives, with 190PS or 150PS, and a 240PS, 2.0-litre Si4 petrol engine. The last one combines direct fuel injection, turbocharging and twin variable valve timing for exceptional driveability and fuel efficiency.

Set to arrive to more than 160 markets in the summer of 2011, the Range Rover Evoque will be manufactured at Land Rover’s multi award-winning Halewood plant in Merseyside, UK.