Car news! Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SUV

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SUV
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Full 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Review

What's New for 2015

The 2015 Evoque's optional self-parking system adds perpendicular parking to its repertoire, and the blind spot monitor now comes with rear cross-path alert. A Convenience package (Pure and Pure Plus trims) bundles the navigation system with keyless entry and ignition, while a Black Dynamic package includes various black exterior details. There's also a new mobile app interface (InControl Apps) and two pricey Autobiography models debut (late availability), with the Dynamic variant offering a power bump and other performance upgrades.

Introduction

Being on the most fundamental level "utility" vehicles, crossover SUVs -- even luxury models -- typically aren't notable for their jaw-dropping styling. But the 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque turns that idea on its ear. The two- or four-door Evoque gives you a concept-car exterior that, a few years into its life cycle, still has the ability to stop onlookers in their tracks. As for the utility bit, well, with the exception of the Evoque's surprising off-roading chops, that's generally what the other Land Rovers (e.g., the upcoming Discovery Sport) are for.

Yes, there's a price to be paid for the Range Rover Evoque's dramatic roof line and bulldog stance: Interior space is at a premium, even by compact-crossover standards. Front passengers will be just fine, but those in back are left with stingy head- and legroom, as well as awkward ingress and egress in the two-door model. Also, the squashed windows mean it's fairly dark back there. The similarly compromised cargo area is on par with that of the VW Golf hatchback, falling short of most rival crossovers.

But the Evoque's also small on the outside, and that makes it a nice fit for space-efficient urban lifestyles. Fuel economy usually isn't a Land Rover strength, but the Evoque impresses here, too, with its respectable 24 mpg combined rating. On the other hand, the turbocharged 240-horsepower engine's power delivery isn't as linear or refined as we expect in this segment, and if you want the massaged 285-hp version in the new-for-2015 Autobiography Dynamic, you'll pay dearly for the privilege. Furthermore, the Evoque rides quite firmly, and that's decidedly not an asset on rutted city streets.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is a small luxury crossover SUV available in two-door (Coupe) and four-door body styles. There are five main trim levels: Pure, Pure Plus, Pure Premium, Prestige and Dynamic. Note that the Pure and Prestige are offered only on the four-door Evoque. The special Autobiography and Autobiography Dynamic trim levels are offered in either two- or four-door form.