This is the 2022 Range Rover Evoque, which makes it a three-year-old car at this point. During that time frame, however, the ultra-stylish and fashionable subcompact luxury crossover SUV never grew out of style. As a matter of fact, just like fine wine, this SUV became even more indulgent as time went by. This is thanks to a number of minor updates that have kept this luxury SUV modern and fresh.
Dashing Exterior, Exquisite Interior
There is one aspect, however, that Land Rover decided to not mess around with–its style. Okay, the 2022 Range Rover Evoque wasn’t really due for a mid-cycle refresh yet, and that’s just a testament to how this subcompact luxury SUV managed to remain modern and stylish. Seen here is the base S D165 variant, which for an entry-level variant looks quite dashing. The 20-inch wheels fill the wheel arches really well, while the well-proportioned body is more evolutionary compared to the first-generation model. It’s a multi-award-winning design, so why mess with success, right? For this all-new model though, designers gave it a number of high-tech touches, most notable of which are its pop-out door handles. However, being a motorized part, we do worry about how long these will last.
While the exterior is evolutionary, the interior sees a much more pronounced upgrade. Range Rovers always had a much more special interior compared to its rivals–befitting of their higher price tags compared to its more mainstream competitors. This subcompact Evoque is no exception, as this interior is very plush and loaded with premium materials. New for this year is Jaguar Land Rover’s Pivi Pro infotainment system, which comes with a new, slicker interface and wireless smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), though being the entry-level S D165, it doesn’t come with the R-Dynamic D200’s fully-digital gauges. Still, the 10-speaker Meridian surround sound system more than makes up for it.
The new infotainment system is very easy to use. While I would normally bemoan the fact that its climate controls are on the touch screen, it must be noted that it’s a separate touch screen from the main infotainment system. What’s more, there are multifunction knobs that not only change the temperature or fan speed, but it’s also the same knob to tweak the Range Rover Evoque’s drive modes. Clever!
Compact On The Outside, Spacious On The Inside
Despite measuring just a little over 4.3 meters long, the Range Rover Evoque is very spacious on all two rows. Likewise, trunk space is also good, though, at its P5,290,000 price tag, you have to remember that it’s priced alongside bigger luxury SUVs such as the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. This can pose a challenge, but then again, Range Rovers have always been priced higher compared to more mainstream luxury SUVs.
A Luxuriating Driving Experience
While its aesthetics are evolutionary, the experience behind the wheel is significantly different. Riding on Jaguar Land Rover’s new Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA), the Ranger Rover Evoque drives significantly better than its predecessor. High-speed stability and refinement are much more improved, with the cabin much more hushed than the previous model.
What’s even more surprising is its handling characteristics. I did not expect this subcompact luxury SUV to feel sporty when going through the bends. Steering is sharp, though not as generous in feel compared to the BMW X1, while body roll is extremely well controlled and flat. Grip levels are also exceptional, with the Range Rover Evoque clawing onto the road really well.
Compared to past Jaguar Land Rover small SUVs, the powertrain of the 2022 Range Rover Evoque feels much more polished than before. As a matter of fact, it’s almost as well-tuned as the German brands. This S D165’s 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine doesn’t produce headline-grabbing figures. 163 hp and 380 Nm of torque don’t sound amazing on paper, but what these numbers don’t tell is how responsive, punchy, and linear the engine’s power delivery is. The 9-speed automatic is also very responsive, much more than the brand’s previous efforts.
Fuel economy is also a strong suit, with this vehicle achieving 11-12 km/l after a week’s worth of use. This is a pretty good figure considering how punchy the engine is along with the fact that as with every Land Rover SUV, the Range Rover Evoque comes with permanent all-wheel drive (AWD).
Verdict
The 2022 Range Rover Evoque may look similar to the previous generation model, but underneath the skin, you get a significantly-improved luxury SUV compared to its predecessor. It also certainly helps that it’s a very stylish vehicle inside and out, whilst being excellent to drive and practical for daily use. However, at P5,290,000, this is nearly twice the price of its entry-level subcompact luxury SUV rivals. Is it worth it? That depends on your priorities.
Range Rovers have always been more special compared to their mainstream competitors, and that’s also reflected even in the smallest member of the family. Consumers will most likely flock to bigger yet less expensive luxury SUVs like the BMW X3, but for those who want something that’s more quaint and special, there’s definitely nothing quite like this 2022 Range Rover Evoque S D165.
More Photos
Pricing and Rating
Exterior Design: ★★★★★
Interior Design: ★★★★★
Space and Practicality: ★★★★★
Features: ★★★★☆
Safety and Driver Assistance: ★★★★☆
Acceleration: ★★★★☆
Handling: ★★★★★
Comfort: ★★★★☆
Fuel Efficiency: ★★★★★
Value For Money: ★★★☆☆
Price: P5,290,000*
Overall: 4.4 out of 5
*Pricing is correct and accurate as of this article’s time of writing.
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