HERE is a brand new Range Rover Evoque after 9 years. Yes, it took Jaguar Land Rover 9 years to bring a more mature Evoque to Malaysia and this allowed the immediate rivals to take advantage of the delay to launch a new version and sell their models during the best economic times for Malaysia.
This new Evoque at first impression might look like a simple facelift but it is all new from its slim nose to its high raked rear end. Step inside the well crafted cabin and you will think it is a sports sedan with its low roofline and driver focused dashboard. The front seats are well bolstered and there are enough adjustments to get your driving position right. Rear view is still small with the slim rear glass and this is why Range Rover engineers have provided a ‘ClearSight’ TV monitor like rear view mirror which you can choose to use either in pure mirror mode or pure high definition TV monitor mode to get a good view behind.
The in house developed Ingenium engine is quiet at idle due to the tight insulation and once on the move you do hear a little rumble when pushed, but it's very faint. After a few minutes on the open road, you will realize how well insulated and comfortable this Evoque is for the passengers and also the driver. For an all terrain vehicle, the ride comfort is like a business sedan and when you get it into ‘sports’ mode it becomes a sports sedan.
Rear space is much improved and now you can have 3 adults in the back without any negative comments coming from the center passenger. Headroom looks tight, but we managed to get a 6-foot teenager in the rear with no issue.
The luggage room has also improved and you get enough room for a short family Malaysian holiday. You can also get some new gym equipment loaded in the rear.
With its new selling price almost RM60,000 more from the first generation model 9 years ago, the used car market will be happy as values will remain decent for trade-in customers looking to get this 2nd generation model. However, our discussion with the Range Rover showroom reveals that all the current 2nd generation buyers are newcomers to the Evoque ownership club and they are drawn to its looks and features more than anything else.
Twenty plus units have already been delivered with more on the way and it remains the 2nd most popular Range Rover model on sale right now.
So, here are some quick facts on why this Evoque should be on your list, if you are looking to buy a premium compact SUV.
1. It just looks stunning when parked next to a Porsche Macan, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and even the Jaguar E-Pace.
2. Its cabin refinement is on par with the competition and maybe even a little beyond with its multiple touch screens and leather covered surfaces.
3. It is really a Range Rover sports SUV as it carries all the range Rover technical equipment and of course the refinement.
4. It has a sensible 2-liter turbocharged engine which allows for good fuel sipping qualities and low yearly road tax.
5. The 0-100km/h run is easily done in just 7.8 seconds which is on par with its immediate luxury rivals.
6. It has all wheel drive and shared all terrain technology with larger Range Rover siblings.
7. It is priced from RM426,828 for the P200 and RM475,398 for the P250 we are test driving here, including the current 50 percent sales tax waiver.
8. There is a 5-year Warranty or 150,000km, 5-year Servicing or 65,000km and 3-year Roadside Assistance so…worry free motoring.
Range Rover Evoque P250 R-Dynamic Specifications
Engine: 4-cylinder Turbo-scroll Petrol
Displacement: 1997cc
Transmission: 9-Speed Drive Select/Sport Mode
Max power: 249ps @ 5500rpm
Max torque: 365Nm @ 1300-4500rpm
0-100km/h: 7.5secs
Top Speed: 230km/h
Selling Price: RM475,398.00 – The Vibes, September 29, 2020
This article is powered by www.dsf.my. For more automotive updates, follow DSF.my on Facebook and Instagram.
