By Asian Journal Auto Editor

Land Rover’s Evoque CUV has been a major success story for the legendary British, now Indian owned automaker. Over 800,000 Evoques’s have found buyers worldwide since its introduction. And it’s not hard to see why. The stunning exterior and overall packaging was beautifully timed. The new second generation 202 model continues much of the same.

The exterior always razor sharp after 8 years still looks amazing; taut, edgy, dynamic and racy. Not much has changed, a cleanup with now flush door handles and seamless flush glazing for better aerodynamics. The interior, meanwhile features a light redesign with tidier reduced switch gear and a very clean look. There is more interior room, thanks to a slighter longer wheelbase, and the rear cargo space is also increased. New technology includes Range Rover’s excellent Terrain Response 2 technology, which provides an automatic mode to the Terrain Response settings. There is also the segment first, ‘ClearSight Ground View’ technology, part of the optional 360 Surround Camera system that provides visibility under the front of the vehicle. An optional ‘ClearSight Rear View Mirror’ also has HD video projection of the rear view on the interior mirror. Delivering sportier, more economical performance, the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder Si4 gas engine now provides 237 hp or 286 horsepower, and improved fuel efficiency through a Continuously Variable Valve Lift system in combination with variable cam timing.  Transmission is via a 9-speed automatic and all-wheel drive and various drive modes.

The 2020 Evoque is in Canadian dealerships with pricing ranging from $47,000-$51,500 for the P250 and $52,500-$61,500 for the P300. There is also a P250 First Edition model priced at $61,500. All Evoque comes standard with leather upholstery, an 8.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment, and navigation, and All -Wheel Drive. We tested a  premium  equipped 2020 Evoque HSE P300  R – Dynamic model priced at a base $61,500 model in a smart Corris grey paint, and kitted out in Windsor Ebony leather wrapped interior, with diamond perforated seats.  The tester was fitted with a heady $9,700 worth of options including: Satellite Radio + HD Radio,  825 watt Meridian Surround  system, 20″ Black Style package, Head-Up Display, Panoramic roof, Cold Climate Package, 6-Way Massing, heated and cooled front seats, blind-spot monitors, a heated steering wheel, standard automatic emergency braking, smart cameras  and more. Upgrades in the HSE include a swankier interior, a rear spoiler, aluminum trim, and a Dynamic drive mode. Fold down the rear seats and the Evoque will offer 51 cubic feet of space. With rear seats down, it still provides up to 20 cubic feet for cargo.

On the road, the new Evoque has a noticeably smoother ride and with better handling. This is thanks to the new transverse architecture design. While a new Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a steady speed on highway cruising. Ride wise, Adaptive Dynamics delivers the optimum balance between ride and control. Cornering is also helped along by Torque Vectoring control. Minor bumps, potholes and bad road are all easily dealt with thank to the pliable suspension. The Evoques’s all-wheel-drive system is superb as with all Range Rover; giving the Evoque seemingly magical powers on a wide range of terrain. For the first time on an Evoque is Range Rover’s proven Terrain Response 2 technology, which provides an automatic mode to the Terrain Response settings. This is part to the terrain-management system that matches the right programs modes for sand, snow, and mud and provides traction power to whichever wheel needs it on less than grippy surfaces. If you do need to do any serious low-speed off-roading, a super low crawl mode ensure you won’t get stuck. A high ground clearance also enables the Evoque to climb over obstacles and ford stream and flooded roads with ease. Not much to complain about, some may say the poor rear visibility is an issue along with a cramped rear interior. In closing, the base and mid-range Evoques represent good value for money, whilst the pricier models and the top tier version offer more luxury and amenities if you can stretch to them. If you want a hybrid version and can wait; a plug-in 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain will also be on offer. No matter which Evoque model you choose, British premium quality, superb off roading ability and badge bragging rights apply. Highly recommended.

2020 Range Rover Evoque Base Priced from $47,000. Price as tested $61,500. Plus options $9,700. And Delivery $1,700. Total Price $72,900.More info at landrover.ca