2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Photo Gallery

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Photo Gallery

Unlike any Land Rover before it, the LR2-based Evoque is so sopping with sport, style, and urban appeal that venturing off-road seems almost inappropriate. But trust me, it's not. According to Land Rover, the Evoque is as capable off-pavement as the LR2, thanks to similar ground clearance, approach and departure angles, break-over angle, and maximum wading depth. Further, Land Rover says the Evoque is not too far behind the capability of the Range Rover Sport, which offers a true low range.

Inside, the Evoque treats with a handsome, smartly laid-out cabin. Except for Dynamic and Prestige trims, which are available in a choice of stimulating interior colors, the ambiance of the Pure trims is somewhat reserved, as in tasteful but not flashy. As it should be with a rig that starts at $50,020, standard equipment is extensive, including a power tailgate, Bluetooth phone and audio, 380-watt Meridian audio, leather seating, 19-inch wheels, pushbutton start, and six airbags. Among the many options are Xenon headlamps, a five-camera surround-view system, 825-watt Meridian audio, navigation, and 20-inch wheels

Output from the Ford-based DI 2.0-liter turbo is smooth and plentiful, negating any thought of needing a six-cylinder. Its partner, an Aisin six-speed automatic with paddle shifters, is seamless and responsive, and efficient enough to return fuel economy of 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway. Never has a Land Rover been this fun and enthralling. For a vehicle that is so competent off-road, its on-road prowess is truly impressive.

At the test track, the Evoque's decreased mass equaled more speed and agility. The 240-horse, 251-pound-feet Evoque two-door needed 7.0sec to reach 60mph and 15.3sec at 91.0mph to complete the quarter mile. Wearing sizeable rubber , the Evoque hung on for 0.82 g worth of lateral grip and completed our figure 8 in 27.7 sec @ 0.64 avg G. From 60 mph, the 2-door Evoque comes to a halt in 125ft.

Whether two- or four-door, the Evoque is destined to be a big hit for Land Rover. It melds an alluring, sturdy facade and smart, tech-laden interior with a robust, efficient powertrain and a rewarding, all-conquering chassis. Eliciting stares and cheers with the same ease that it dominates mountains and deserts with, the Evoque is indeed a rock star.