Range Rover Evoque review

The original Range Rover Evoque changed Land Rover forever. Prior to its watershed launch, the British brand's SUVs were handsome enough, but in quite a functional, boxy sort of way. After it, though, Land Rover was as much about fashion and glamour as it was off-roading and country estates. 

It’s hardly surprising, then, that the designers of this second-generation model opted to take an evolutionary approach – it would have been daft not to, given the huge popularity of the original Evoque.

The new car's styling was also clearly influenced by the pricier Range Rover Velar, particularly in the squintier front and rear lights and the flush-fitting door handles, which slide out of the doors gracefully when you unlock the car.

Land Rover hasn't been resting on its laurels, either. Changes to this second-generation version have included adding a more sophisticated infotainment system, and a range of more powerful engines that feature mild hybrid technology to boost efficiency. You can even get it as a plug-in hybrid these days.

Key rivals include the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and a former What Car? Car of the Year, the Volvo XC40. None of those claims to be as capable as the Evoque off the beaten track, but how do they all compare when it comes to on-road driving manners, interior quality, safety, practicality and running costs? Well, over the next few pages of this review, that's exactly what we'll be telling you, and more.

If at the end of it you decide the Range Rover Evoque – or another vehicle of any make and model – is the car for you, you can secure a hefty discount without any awkward haggling by checking out the free What Car? New Car Buying service, where you'll find some impressive Evoque deals.