Evoque – No Hybrid, Going to Stay EcoBoost Only?

Our Two Cents: This doesn’t really seem to bother us one bit.  Here’s the article from Autoblog…

Despite the fact that Land Rover has gone out of its way to promote its new Evoque as an environmentally friendly alternative to its normal brand of behemoth globetrotting earth movers, Auto Express reports that the front-wheel drive (optional all-wheel drive, naturally) unibody Rover won’t be getting a hybrid powertrain option.

Instead, Land Rover’s global product director John Edwards suggests that any future electrically assisted powertrains will likely be featured in the larger Discovery (LR4 in the States) and Range Rovers. Edwards points out that the Evoque was designed as a lightweight machine, and a small four-cylinder diesel engine can provide the kind of fuel mileage targeted for the model.

While it’s certainly true that hybrid componentry adds complexity and weight, American and Japanese automakers have proven that it’s certainly possible to put the fuel-saving bits and pieces in smaller-sized vehicles. What’s more, diesel vehicles aren’t exactly commonplace on American roads or dealerships, leaving us to wonder if the U.S. market will be left out of the high-mpg loop yet again.

Project Kahn working on Cosworth-powered Range Rover Evoque

It’s not every day that a new Range Rover is introduced. But when one is, you can count on Azfal Kahn and his crew to go to work on it. And the new Evoque appears to be no exception.

Beyond the photo above, all Project Kahn has released so far about its tuning program for the Evoque is that (a) it’s working on one, (b) it’s coming some time in the new year and (c) it’ll be powered by Cosworth. Kahn has worked with the racing engine manufacturer on previous projects, so that’s no big revelation by itself, but it’ll be interesting to see what the two British firms have got in store for the new baby Rover beyond a set of flashy rims.

[Source: Project Kahn via autoblog.nl]

2012 Land Rover Evoque Press Release

Press Release:
ALL-NEW RANGE ROVER EVOQUE MAKES GUEST APPEARANCE AT 40 YEAR CELEBRATION OF THE BRAND

- First image of all-new Range Rover released
- Officially named Range Rover Evoque
- Design stays true to LRX concept car
- Lightest, most fuel efficient Range Rover ever
- Third Range Rover model to compete in fuel-efficient 4WD Luxury Compact SUV segment in North America
- Official public debut at Paris Motor Show: 30 September
- On sale in North America Fall 2011

Paris Preview: Land Rover reveals the Evoque

Here’s the production 2012 Range Rover Evoque in all its glory, and the LRX-inspired CUV is lighter, meaner and greener than anything to come from the Range Rover arsenal.

Buyers can opt for three exterior design themes: Pure, a minimalistic take with 19-inch wheels and natural colors complemented by brushed metal trim adorning the insides; Prestige, a “bespoke exterior” treatment with exclusive 19-inch wheels paired “an indulgent interior;” or Dynamic, with 19- or 20-inch wheels a reworked bodykit, and a sportier cabin complete with perforated leather seats and a bit more bling.