Range Rover Evoque

MANILA, Philippines - LRPhils Motors Inc, the official distributor of Range Rover vehicles in the country, is launching the all-new Evoque today. The Evoque is the final derivative of what began as the LRX concept car, previewed back in 2008. This new compact cross-over features the versatility of an SUV while delivering the driving dynamics of a compact sedan.

Sleek and visually striking, the Evoque carries patented visual cues that signal its genetic lineage to Range Rovers of yore. Here one can see the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof and the solid “wheel-at-each-corner” stance. However, unlike its older stable mates, the Evoque adopts a very engaging profile with its rising beltline, a muscular shoulder running the length of the car, and a distinctive taper to the floating roofline. The sculpted corners reduce the car’s visual overhangs front and rear.

The Range Rover Evoque will be available in two versions: a coupé model, which precisely mirrors the LRX concept design, and a five-door. The coupe and five-door are identical in overall length and width; however, the five-door has a 1.18 inch higher rear roofline. Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director said, “The unique style of the Range Rover Evoque will attract a new generation of Range Rover customers who have never considered an SUV before, such as premium coupé buyers who would like to make a bold new statement.”

To give Evoque owners a freer hand in customizing their vehicle, Land Rover will offer it in three distinctive trim levels. “PURE” combines the concept-car exterior with a stylish, clean interior in neutral colors to highlight the simple forms of the cabin architecture. The second option is “PRESTIGE,” or what can be considered the ultimate Range Rover luxury, combining a bespoke exterior that includes unique 19-inch wheels and sparkling metallic details with an interior that is almost entirely leather-wrapped with twin-needle stitching and real wood and metal finishes. Finally, one can also opt for the “DYNAMIC”, exemplifying a bold exterior with 19 or 20-inch wheels and unique bumpers, sills, grille and tailpipes for a more aggressive look.

The Evoque offers practical use and comfort inside, retaining the core elements of the classic Range Rover Command Driving Position. The clever packaging of the interior adds further space and versatility to the luxurious cabin. The rear seats offer plush accommodation for three passengers. In addition to generous headroom, which compares very favorably to traditional sport sedans, rear seat occupants in the five-door model also benefit from about two inches of additional shoulder room than the coupé model. A unique panoramic glass roof is available that aids airiness in the interior, while 60/40 folding rear seats permit more cargo loading possibilities.

Powering the new Evoque is a new 2.0L Si4 turbocharged direct injected 4-cylinder petrol engine. The powerplant lends exceptional grunt, delivering a 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds thanks to the 240 horsepower on tap. Coupled with twin variable valve timing, twin balancer shafts and all aluminum alloy construction this engine displays pleasing driveability and excellent fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which has been optimized for good fuel consumption. Compared to conventional larger capacity engines with a similar power output, the new motor can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 20 percent.

Riding high like other SUVs but also delivering superb handling is made possible with the Evoque’s special Magneride™ dampers. MagneRide™ dampers offer infinitely variable damper settings between soft (comfort) and hard (sports) settings, and operate by using a special magneto-rheological damping fluid, which contains magnetic particles. When a computer-controlled magnetic field inside the damper is applied, the fluid becomes more viscous, thus increasing the damping. So the Evoque can be calm and serene while cruising, but engaging and exciting when pushed hard.

Being a Range Rover, the Evoque is also equipped with 4wd hardware and software for some rough stuff motoring. Drivers who take it off-road will be reassured to know that, in addition to generous ground clearance, the Range Rover Evoque has aggressive breakover and departure angles, and is equipped with a fully independent suspension featuring long-travel coil-sprung struts front and rear. In common with its larger siblings, the new model provides formidable off-road potential, which is enhanced by the company’s signature Terrain Response^® system. Terrain Response® adapts the reflexes of the car’s engine, gearbox, center coupling and braking/stability systems to match the demands of the surface for sure footed driving.

Stylish and fun aren’t the only words in the Evoque’s vocabulary, but also sustainable. In a world where car buyers are increasingly more sensitive to the environment, Land Rover has created a vehicle that serves to minimize its carbon footprint throughout its entire life span. This is achieved in several ways, one of course being the Evoque’s size. By offering the same level of refinement and performance in a tinier package, Range Rover virtues are not sacrificed but rather maintained through a more efficient system. Speaking of efficiency, the Evoque has also employed smarter components to reduce waste in fuel and electrical consumption. Say for instance the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), which reduces parasitic losses from the vehicle. Or through reduction in the vehicle’s mass, making the Evoque the lightest Range Rover vehicle at only 1,731 Kg. Of course, recyclable materials are in use specifically in the headliner, center console, wheel arch liners, air cleaner, cooling fan and shroud, air ducting, side under trays, and engine cover to prevent more waste in the production process.

Ushering a new era in Range Rover’s storied history is this new sporty, versatile, and environmentally friendly Evoque. For more information visit the Range Rover website or visit the new Range Rover showroom in Bonifacio Global City.