Range Rover Evoque review (2011-2019)

The Range Rover Evoque has the interior the word “cosseting” was invented for.

It’s just as well because competitors such as the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC are similarly classy.

Tech and features

The driver and front-seat passenger are separated by a large centre console that houses the climate controls.

Above that, there’s a central touchscreen for the sat-nav, audio system (which includes DAB) and various car set-up menus.

First-generation cars had a rotating “puck” gear selector, which works well, although this has been replaced by a conventional gear lever on current-shape cars.

All are well equipped, with leather trim, climate control, cruise control and rear parking sensors featuring on even entry-level models.

Higher trim levels give you xenon or LED headlights, automatic lights and wipers and a reversing camera – on later cars this has evolved into a surround-view camera system.

Later cars also feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, but earlier cars will be Bluetooth or USB only.

Handling and ride comfort

You might think that SUVs are tall, ponderous cars aimed at comfort rather than fun. In the Evoque’s case, you’d be dead wrong.

It’s genuinely enjoyable to drive, with punchy petrol and diesel engines up front, quick steering and suspension that’s firm enough to give the car nimble responses but not so firm that it’s uncomfortable.

Choosing a car on smaller alloy wheels tend to make the ride just that bit more comfortable.

The Evoque’s compact dimensions make it easy to drive in town, and simple to park. The narrow glass area to the rear does mean you’ll have to rely on the parking sensors.

On motorways, the engines tend to fade into the background even if the door mirrors tend to generate a bit of wind noise.

Lack of space is a weak spot in the Evoque. Yes, there’s plenty of headroom and legroom for the two people in the front, but those in the back seat will be happier if they’re on speaking terms.

The second-generation is better in this regard. If you plan to regularly carry people in the rear seat, there are other options out there, such as the Audi Q5 or BMW X3.

Boot space

The first-generation Evoque is also notable for having a pretty small boot, although the current-shape is much better and has a 40/20/40 split rear seat, which helps its practicality.

Storage solutions

There are plenty of storage areas dotted around the Evoque’s cabin, and the door bins are big enough to store your large waters bottles after a run in the countryside.

There are also cupholders in the centre console, although in the later model these are accessed by lifting away a small tray, so you’re left with the problem of where to put it.

Just as well the glovebox is a decent size.

Fuel economy

The vast majority of Range Rover Evoques have a diesel engine under the bonnet, although petrol power is also on offer.

In first-generation cars, the four-wheel drive 180hp TD4 is the engine of choice, because it’s both punchy and economical.

Expect them to get around 40mpg with mixed driving, but time spent around town could reduce this closer to 30mpg.

There’s only one petrol motor – a 240hp 2.0-litre that can do a reported 36.2mpg. In reality, closer to 30mpg is more realistic.