2021 Range Rover
Evoque Review
2021 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE REVIEW- COMPACT LUXURY OR STYLE OVER SUBSTANCE?
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Does the smallest Range Rover live up to the prestigious badge?​
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The Evoque is the Range Rover you buy with your head- and your Instagram in mind. It's a compact SUV that promises a full-fat luxury experience in a more city-friendly footprint. Designed to blend concept car looks with daily usability, it competes in the hotly contested premium crossover market.
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This review is specifically about the P250 AWD R-Dynamic S, that is owned by my mother. It powered by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 246 bhp, paired with a mild-hybrid system and a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Finished in Seoul Silver and black 18 inch alloy wheels.
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Despite it being the 'base' S model, it has fitted an optional panoramic sun roof, darkened black gloss accents on the grille and badges, and a heads-up display (HUD).
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But does the Evoque serve as a genuine Range Rover scaled down? Or is it more about curb appeal than capability?
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EXTERIOR:
If there is one area where the Evoque earns instant points, it's styling. From it's coupe-like silhouette to flush door handles and slimline LED headlights, the 2021 Evoque looks undeniably premium. It takes the design language of the full-size Range Rover and distills it into a sleeker, tighter package.
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In person, it feels substantial for its size. The bold front grille and pronounced wheel arches give it a muscular stance, while the sloping roofline and narrow rear window provides it with an air of elegance.
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It definitely turns heads- especially in R-Dynamic trim with blacked-out details. Passers-by give it a second glance that is normally reserved for much pricier SUVs. The Evoque still carries the gravitas of a full size Range Rover.
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INTERIOR:
Step inside, and the Evoque continues to impress. The cabin is beautifully finished, with soft-touch materials, plush leather seats, and elegant brushed metal and piano black trim. It feels convincingly upscale- almost indistinguishable from its larger Velar sibling.
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The Pivi Pro infotainment system is major upgrade over older Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) units. On the S trim, the smaller single screen is standard, with physical buttons below for the climate system. On higher trims, the climate buttons a replaced by a second screen. For usability on the move, the standard set-up is much better.
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In whatever guise, the unit is responsive, slick and well integrated, but does take a little time to get used to. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
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The digital driver's display is crisp and customisable, while comfort in the front seats is excellent, especially with the optional heated seats.
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Rear space is acceptable but not class-leading. Taller passengers might find legroom a little tight, and the sloping roofline slightly compromises headroom. The boot offers 591 litres, which is competitive for the class, and with a low load-lip, large items are easy to handle.
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Overall, it nails the luxury vibe- but some of the tech still leans toward style over intuitiveness.
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DRIVING:
Under the bonnet, the P250's 2.0-litre petrol engine is smooth and relatively eager, masking the cars' 1.8 tonne curb weight. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds, providing confidence when overtaking.
The 9-speed automatic gearbox is generally unobtrusive, though there is a noticeable delay when you put your foot down. For most daily driving scenarios, it shifts smoothly and predictably.
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On the road, the Evoque leans toward comfort. The suspension setup is very refined on the motorway, but around town, does feel unsettled over potholes. Smaller wheels on the S trim help in this regard.
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Through twisty roads, the evoque feels stable and composed. It's not sports SUV, but does handle corners better than expected, providing a copious amount of grip. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence in poor weather. The steering is light- ideal for city parking but numb feeling at higher speeds.
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Off-road? I haven't had the chance to fully test mud-plugging abilities, but with Terrain Response 2, hill descent control, and decent ground clearance, the Evoque retains more off-road credibility than you might expect from such a fashion-forward SUV.
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RUNNING COSTS:
In the real world, the P250 returns around 28-30 mpg- a bit below the official figure and its rivals. The mild hybrid system helps slightly, but don't expect dramatic efficiency gains.
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Insurance is on the higher side (Group 34+), and servicing costs reflect the Range Rover badge.
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RIVALS:
In a crowded segment of premium compact SUVs, the Evoque faces stiff competition. The Audi Q3 and BMW X1/X2 offer sharper infotainment and better value; the Mercedes GLA leans more tech-forward and smoother on-road; the Volvo XC40 blends Scandinavian style with practicality.
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But the Evoque trumps them all on design and perceived luxury. No other SUV in this size bracket feels quite as special inside or out- not to mention its commanding driving position.
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Downsides? The infotainment learning curve, higher price, and cramped rear seats.
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VERDICT:
So, does the 2021 Evoque live up to the Range Rover name? For the most part-yes. It offers a surprisingly refined, comfortable, and premium driving experience in a compact, urban-friendly package. It's not flawless. But it feels special, and in this style-conscious segment, that still counts for a lot.
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