Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Coupe TD4 Pure 3dr Car Review - February 2012

The driving experience of the Evoque is quite different from many other 4x4s in terms of the sporty feel to the drive, with quick steering that responds well. The suspension delivers a ride that offers enough feedback to the driver without compromising a comfortable ride for the passengers over most bumps, but a large pothole or bump can set the suspension bouncing a little. The driving position is quite good, with the high driving stance meaning that forward visibility is excellent, but on the whole the rear visibility could do with improving because of the small rear window.

The 2.2 litre engine can deliver a good level of performance too, with acceleration from 0-62mph taking only 10.8 seconds, and with a top speed of 115mph this will be perfectly happy cruising on the motorway. However, the Evoque does suffer with road noise when driving on the motorway, which is disappointing considering the prestige target market of the car.

The Evoque is certainly a beautiful 4x4 when compared with some of its rivals, but the looks can still be hit and miss. The giant oversized bumper to the front and the narrow grille has a meaner look than the standard Range Rover, and the back end is a little sportier too, with a large spoiler hanging over the small rear window. Inside, the Evoque is very high quality just as you would expect, and the touch screen entertainment system is very well designed and easy to use.

One disappointing factor is that the panoramic sunroof isn’t included as standard, and this means that those not choosing it as an extra can find that the small windows don’t let in much light. However, the rest of the kit is superb, with leather seats and alloy wheels being very desirable features included as standard. It also comes with power heated seats, cruise control and climate control, which add to the good level of luxury and comfort in the cabin.

The Evoque does have more space than the average family car, but isn’t as spacious as some other 4x4s where fewer design compromises have been made. Legroom to the back is adequate rather than spacious, and the boot does have enough space for the majority of people.

In terms of the safety of the Evoque, it has been awarded five stars by the Euro NCAP safety test, and does come installed with a good range of airbags, including the driver’s knee airbag. It also has driver’s aids such as ABS, ESP and traction control to help ensure the Evoque’s driver stays firmly in control. Land Rovers are not renowned for their reliability, but it does come with a good warranty, and this record has been improving over recent years.

The desirability of the Evoque does mean that it comes with a significant purchase price, with this version listed at £29,705. The sheer popularity of the vehicle and the fact that so many people want one does mean that resale prices are likely to be very good for all of the models in the Evoque range.

In terms of the running costs of the vehicle, it is really quite good for a 4x4, with the 2.2 litre diesel engine able to deliver an average 49.6mpg. The insurance group is quite high, so premiums won’t be cheap, but the package is completed with a good three year warranty and a three year roadside breakdown policy.