The current Range Rover Evoque arrived on local soil in 2011 and serves as the entry point to the Range Rover lineup. It has proven to be hugely popular in South Africa but also in markets around the world with sales amounting to over 772 000 units! The second-generation Evoque has now been officially revealed in London, UK and can be expected to reach South Africa in early 2019.
Gerry McGovern, Land Rover, Chief Design Officer, said: “When Range Rover Evoque made its debut back in 2010, it transformed the world of compact SUVs and the new model is set to continue that remarkable journey. This characterful vehicle combines refinement and fun to create that all-important emotional reaction that will turn heads and make people smile.”
An extended wheelbase has resulted in improved interior space, especially for rear passengers and luggage.
Built on Land Rover’s new mixed-material Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA), the new Evoque draws some styling inspiration from the larger Velar SUV while retaining its coupe-like silhouette with muscular wheel arches (which house 21-inch alloy wheels) and sloping roofline which has made it so desirable. It has now evolved to look classier and more refined.
Note the uniquely-stylish flush door handles first seen on the Velar and the slim Matrix-LED headlights and sweeping indicators which now define its front-end. A new rear light signature and black accentprovide a sense of width at the rear. Two new colours are available including Seoul Pearl Silver and Nolita Grey.
While the previous Evoque was criticised for lacking sufficient interior space, the new Evoque remedies the issue with the wheelbase being extended by 21 mm wheelbase which translates into 22mm improved knee and legroom for passengers as well as a larger load bay which is now 10% larger than before at 591 litres. The rear seats are split in a 40:20:40 configuration for added practicality.
Dual touchscreens reduce the need for physical buttons and affordthe interior a modern and sophisticated look.
The interior features a 12-inch all-digital instrument cluster and the latest Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with two 10-inch touchscreens (Apple CarPlay compatible) that take care of infotainment and in-car functions.
Other nifty features include Click & Go rear seat tablet holders with charging capability, 6 USB ports and a WiFi hotspot for up to 8 devices. Smart Settings technology uses artificial intelligence to learn the driver’s behaviours and preferences over time for media, in-car temperature, seat and steering settings and frequently dialled numbers, and so forth. Up to 8 profiles can be registered.
Two new interior combinations are on offer including Cloud and Deep Garnet. In addition to leather, new upholstery options include recycled materials such as Kvadrat wool blend and new Eucalyptus Melange textile which combines with Ultrafabric PU. More so, the seats can be had with unique details such as diamond perforation and Arctic Petrol micro-piping.
The new Evoque will be offered in S, SE, HSE and R-Dynamic trim lines.
The rear-view mirror is also an HD video screen giving the driver a wider rear view of the surroundings.
Unique features in the new Evoque include ClearSight Ground View which uses cameras in the grille and door mirrors to project a 180-degree image onto the central touchscreen to give the driver a view ahead and below the vehicle which is helpful in tight spaces or on tough terrain.
The new Evoque is also equipped with a smart rear-view mirror that transforms into an HD video screen at the touch of a button. The rear-facing camera displays a feed on the mirror, giving the driver a wider 50-degree view which also operates in low-light conditions.
By using the InControl Remote smartphone application, you can remain in contact with the Evoque wherever you are. You can locate your vehicle, check the fuel range, unlock the vehicle remotely or pre-heat/cool the cabin before your drive. More so, infotainment software updates and vehicle updates are done wirelessly which means you don’t have to visit a dealership!
Terrain Response 2 in the new Evoque will take you wherever your heart desires…
In other markets, the Evoque will be offered with mild hybrid technology, but this is not the case in South Africa. A range of Ingenium engines will power the new Evoque and from launch, the South African market will receive 2 engines initially. The P250 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with 183 kW and 365 Nm of torque will be available with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 7.4 L/100km.
The D180 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 132 kW and 430 Nm of torque is the more frugal option with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.8 L/100km.
The range-topping P300 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with 221 kW and 400 Nm will arrive later in 2019 and will carry a claimed fuel consumption figure of 8.1 L/100km. All Evoque derivatives will be equipped with a ZF 9-speed automatic transmission and will feature all-wheel drive. The 3-door and convertible versions are not on the cards.
Equipped with Terrain Response 2, the new Evoque will be able to tackle various terrain with a ground clearance of 212 mm and a wading depth of 600 mm. The driver can choose between 4 terrain modes including Comfort, Sand, Grass-Gravel-Snow and Mud & Ruts. An Auto mode, however, will automatically select the appropriate mode and adjust torque delivery to suit the prevailing conditions. Features such as Hill Descent Control, Gradient Release Control and All-Terrain Progress Control will also be offered.
On-road comfort is ensured with an Integral Link rear suspension and a front MacPherson strut Hydrobush suspension. Furthermore, Adaptive Dynamics uses sensors and continuously variable suspension dampers to instantly monitor road conditions and will constantly adjust the dampers to deliver a smooth and composed ride at all times.
Driver assistance features include Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist, Lane Keep Assist and Driver Condition Monitor.
A spokesperson from Land Rover South Africa has confirmed that the new Range Rover Evoque will launch in South Africa in early 2019. We will keep you informed as soon as local pricing becomes available.
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