Unveiled in London last November — which even involved a “dip” in a swimming pool —, we've now traveled to Madrid to learn more about the new Range Rover Evoque (L551), a model that bears enormous responsibilities considering the success of the first generation.
Which justifies the bet on the continuity of this second generation. However, there are many news, especially in the technological field — all engines are mild-hybrid (except for the one that has manual transmission), greater emphasis on connectivity, over-the-air updates (remote updates), digital rearview mirror and even an “invisible” bonnet.
The new Range Rover Evoque uses an evolution of the current platform (D8), which received the name Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA), which not only guarantees more rigidity (13%) and better spatial utilization, but is also prepared for increasing levels of electrification—mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid—a possibility fully exploited by the new Evoque.
MHEV
Except for the D4 engine (2.0 Diesel with 150 hp) when combined with the manual gearbox and front wheel drive, all others are mild hybrid , or semi-hybrids, or in Land Rover, MHEV or Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle. What this means?There is now a parallel electrical system of 48 V, associated with a lithium battery composed of 14 cells of 8 Ah (Amperes hour); and an engine-generator connected by belt to the crankshaft. Like other similar systems, it does not allow electric autonomy, but it does support the Ingenium internal combustion engines that equip the new Evoque, whether using diesel or gasoline.
The advantages? Up to 6% on fuel reduction , which equals up to minus 8 g/km of CO2; plus we have available up to 140 Nm of extra torque, courtesy of the electric motor, for more vigorous starts or acceleration resumes. The start-stop system is now able to turn off the engine while the car is in motion, up to a speed of 17 km/h.
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PHEV
Later, in March 2020, a plug-in hybrid variant, or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), will emerge. The new Range Rover Evoque PHEV comes with A first-of-its-kind Ingenium three-cylinder turbo petrol block, with 1.5 l, 200 hp and 280 Nm of torque.
In addition to the electric motor-generator connected to the crankshaft (as in the MHEV), the Evoque PHEV adds an electrified rear axle — integrates a 108 hp electric motor, gearbox and inverter. The battery is now 11.3 kW/h. At the moment, no more specifications have been put forward, such as the exclusively electric autonomy.
Engines
As you'd expect, the new Range Rover Evoque comes equipped with JLR's Ingenium petrol and diesel engines. both have 2.0 l capacity, four cylinders in line, and are always supercharged via a turbocharger.Class 1? only one version
There will only be one Range Rover Evoque classified as Class 1 at our toll booths. It will come equipped with the D4 Diesel engine, with 150 hp, and will also be the only Evoque with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox. All other Evoque, when drawn at four, will be Class 2.
Gasoline will have three variants, with 200 hp, 249 hp and 300 hp . In diesel we will also have three variants with 150 hp, 180 hp and 240 hp . All of them will be associated with a nine-speed ZF automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
High Tech
It's not just in terms of electrification that the new Range Rover Evoque reveals its commitment to technological sophistication. The new British SUV becomes part of the new infotainment system Touch Pro Duo , which combines two 10″ glass touchscreens, plus a 12.3″ digital instrument panel and a head-up color display.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also present, as well as a 4G Wi-Fi Hot Spot (up to eight devices) and six USB plugs “spread out” throughout the cabin.
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Another new feature is the incorporation of an “invisible bonnet”. named Clear Sight Ground View , this piece of technology basically lets you see what's immediately in front of the… front, that the bonnet doesn't let you see — a precious aid in off-road driving, or even city driving.
Finally, the new Evoque is also equipped with a digital rearview — despite being the first brand to present it, Toyota anticipated the sale of a similar solution with the new RAV4. The advantages are obvious, where a rear camera allows you to maintain the functionality of the mirror, even when the trunk (now 16 l more, with 591 l) is full… to the ceiling.
It has certainly happened to you that you look in the rearview mirror and have something obstructing your view…
You can see the new Evoque live
The new Range Rover Evoque is now available for order in Portugal in 4X4 versions, with the arrival on the market starting next March . 4X2 versions arrive later, in September.
The prices advanced by the brand are not yet final — they will be confirmed after the WLTP certification which will give the exact CO2 values. Thus, are announced 55 572 euros for 4X4 versions (150 hp, automatic, equipment level S) and 54 656 euros for the 4X2 version (150 hp, manual, base equipment).
Those interested in the new generation of British SUV will have the opportunity to meet it live, first hand, the 1st and 2nd March in Lisbon and 8th March in Porto , where it will be displayed statically. It will be necessary to reserve a place for the event, so we leave the places where you can do it:
- Lisbon, March 1-2 — www.novoevoquelisboa.com
- Porto, March 8 — www.novoevoqueporto.com
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