Range Rover Evoque updated for 2017 model year

Land Rover has revealed an updated version of the Range Rover Evoque SUV for the 2017 model year. The updated car will go on sale this summer, with prices starting from £30,600.

Among the changes made to the big-selling SUV is the adoption of Land Rover’s latest off-road technology, and a new optional infotainment system.

What is it?

The Range Rover Evoque is a premium SUV, and a rival for the likes of the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Both those rivals are ultimately better to drive than the Evoque, but the baby Range Rover has looks and off-road capability on its side.

For the 2017 model year, Land Rover has introduced some mild updates to the car as well as a new special edition, dubbed Ember. The Ember models, which will only be available for three months with deliveries in September, receive a different roof design and contrasting colour bodywork, large 20in alloy wheels, and darkened front and rear lights.

What engines can I choose from?

No changes have been made to the Evoque’s engine range, so the range still consists of 2.0-litre diesel engines with either 148bhp, 178bhp or 237bhp. We’d recommend the 178bhp version, badged TD4. Click here to read our full Range Rover Evoque review.

What equipment does it come with?

For the 2017 model year, the Evoque gets Land Rover’s ‘Low Friction Launch’ system, which allows drivers to pull away safely on low-friction surfaces, such as when going off-road. The system controls the amount of torque the drivers can apply, preventing the wheels from spinning.

Also new is Jaguar Land Rover’s InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. The same system is already available in the Jaguar XE and XF models, and also on the open-top Range Rover Evoque Convertible. It features a large touchscreen interface, and replaces the car’s standard eight-inch touchscreen. Among the system’s features are high-definition 3D maps and the ability to share your estimated time of arrival with friends and family.

The InControl Touch Pro system is standard equipment on top-end versions of the Evoque, and is optional on entry-level models.

Elsewhere in the range, SE Tech versions of the Evoque now receive 12-way electric seats and automatic high-beam assistance as part of its standard equipment. HSE Dynamic models and above now get the Incontrol Touch Pro system, including a WiFi hotspot and associated mobile phone apps, and Land Rover’s All Terrain Progress Control system on automatic models. The system works like cruise control for off-road driving.

Autobiography models get the option of a Graphite design pack, which brings with it bespoke 20in alloy wheels and a range of black exterior trim. The pack costs from £2125.

How much does it cost?

The Evoque range's starting price is unchanged, meaning an entry-level car will cost you £30,600. Prices have risen for the mid-range SE Tech and HSE Dynamic models, though, which are now priced from £33,000 and £41,400 respectively. Top-end Evoque Autobiography cars continue to cost from £52,200.

How good are its rivals?

Both the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 are well regarded cars. The Q3 is compact and good to drive, while retaining the practicality of an SUV, while the X1 offers low running costs.