Used 2019 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

The 2019 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is a luxury-crossover SUV in subcompact form. It comes in the traditional arrangement with four doors, a tailgate and a fixed metal roof. Or there’s the much less conventional convertible variation. This latter model is the only SUV-based soft-top around, so when we refer to rivals (like the BMW X2 and Audi Q3), we mean it in reference to the tin-top. The Evoque comes from Land Rover, so the standard all-wheel drive, selectable Terrain Response System, 8.46 inches of ground clearance, short overhangs, and ability to wade through 19 inches of standing water give it some “far from the street” credibility. But the overall vibe is more Park Avenue than national park.

A relatively firm suspension and quick steering responses make the 2019 Evoque feel more like a sporty hatchback than a typical luxury-crossover SUV. Choosing a version with the more powerful engine (286 horsepower versus 237) brings plenty of energy to the drive, although the 9-speed automatic transmission could be programmed for a little more refinement — it hesitates sometimes on downshifts. We shouldn’t be surprised that Land Rover’s expertise has made it into the Evoque. When the terrain becomes more challenging, the driver can switch among Mud, Sand and Snow modes. It doesn’t have the low-range gearing of bigger Range Rovers, which keeps it from serious off-road duty, but it’s impressive that something so stylish can be this capable.

The elegance, high-quality materials, detail and cool aesthetics normally associated with Range Rover are evident in the 2019 Evoque’s cabin. For example, the rotary transmission shifter rises theatrically from the center console once the ignition is fired up. The InControl Touch Pro touch-screen infotainment system doesn’t please everyone, but the optional Meridian sound system usually gets rave reviews. The front seats are comfortable, although the rear seats and the cargo area behind them (20.3 cubic feet with the seats up, 51 when they’re down) are naturally limited, since the Evoque is the smallest Range Rover. The convertible version is even more constricted. It seats only four and trunk space is just 8.9 cubic feet.

The 2019 Evoque sports an exterior that’s also unmistakably Range Rover. The high-set blunt nose works with the flared flanks, oversized wheels and tires, and dramatic sloping roof that seems to float above the blacked-out rear pillars to create an overall striking impression. There are even supercar-style vents in the hood. The 2-door convertible has a similar silhouette when its roof is in place. That fabric top folds away completely, emphasizing the imposing nose and raised tail.

ACTIVE DRIVELINE 4WD & TERRAIN RESPONSE SYSTEM
The Evoque deploys all-wheel drive (AWD) up to 22 mph. Then it switches to front-wheel drive (FWD) to save fuel. If wheel slip is detected, though, it immediately apportions drive to the rear wheels. Terrain Response provides selectable drive modes including Snow, Sand and Trail. It alters the behavior of the throttle, transmission, suspension and other systems to optimize traction.

SURROUND CAMERA SYSTEM
The Evoque’s Surround Camera System is the ultimate rearview camera. Four cameras mounted around the SUV provide an overhead 360-degree/simulated view of its surroundings on the 10.2-inch touch screen. It makes parking and maneuvering into tight spaces much easier. It also helps when off-roading.

The entry-level 2019 Range Rover Evoque SE comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, parking sensors front and rear, navigation, 360-degree camera system, and an 8-inch infotainment touch screen. All-wheel drive with the Terrain Response System (featuring General, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, and Sand modes) is also standard, along with hill-start assist and All-Terrain Progress Control (a low-speed cruise control for low-grip conditions). The convertible comes in SE Dynamic and HSE Dynamic trims, starting off with a 10-inch touch screen and keyless entry/ignition, going up to 19-inch wheels and blind-spot monitoring in the higher level.

Apart from a few extras like a cold-climate package and an upgraded infotainment system, the Evoque SE isn’t eligible for many options. Blind-spot monitoring means going up to SE Premium. Things become progressively lavish from there. The Evoque HSE Dynamic makes the more powerful engine available. The range-topping Autobiography trim has adaptive headlights with the Land Rover LED signature, brushed-aluminum trim, and an 825-watt/17-speaker Meridian surround-sound system. Other options include a self-parking feature and a head-up display.

Most of the 2019 Range Rover Evoque variants use a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine making 237 horsepower. The tin-topped HSE Dynamic and Autobiography Dynamic offer a version that develops 286 horsepower. Both engines are smooth, with just a hint of turbo lag that’s no big deal. There’s still enough punch when the accelerator meets the carpet. They have both been engineered to operate at the kind of extreme angles that off-roading often entails. And their fuel-economy figures are almost identical. A 9-speed automatic (with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters) is the sole transmission and all-wheel drive is standard.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
237 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
251 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/29 mpg, 21/29 mpg (convertible)

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
286 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
295 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/29 mpg