2025 Range Rover Evoque Dynamic SE – ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE

2025 Range Rover Evoque Dynamic SE

ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE

In many well-appointed zip codes the subcompact luxury SUV is ubiquitous. Volvo’s XC40, BMW’s X1, the Lexus NX and Mini Countryman are probably seen most frequently, while the subject of this test, the Range Rover Evoque, is hardly seen at all. Of course, rarity in and of itself isn’t a bad thing, and for some in the luxury market, it’s everything. If, subjectively, drop-dead gorgeous is near the top of your list of buying parameters, then a stop at your Land Rover/Range Rover dealer should make your to-do list. But if looking for a long-term relationship rather than a wild-and-crazy fling, maybe you find a Lexus.

Back in the day, the purchase of a low-volume luxury import came with its own expectations. And perhaps the first – and most important – realization that there was more to do than simply check the oil. (And if you have absolutely no idea what ‘check the oil’ means, return to Texas Monthly.) You’d hope you could make the purchase at a nearby dealership because you’d be making regular visits. If you lived in Manhattan or Manhattan Beach a dealer was invariably close. Manhattan, Kansas? Not so much.

The Land Rover/Range Rover lineup, which includes the Range Rover Evoque, is not of the ‘it’s gonna’ strand you’ definition of unreliable, but it will probably require more of both you and your checkbook – especially with the expiration of the factory warranty – than a Lexus, Acura or Infiniti. But then, a Rolex probably requires more from its owner than a Timex. You pays (as they say) your money, and you make your choice.

For the record, a new Evoque starts at about $50K and will top out – in its Dynamic SE trim – at just north of $60K, which is fully appropriate to the category. For that investment you’ll enjoy an eye-catching exterior shape, a very well appointed interior and a drivetrain that, while not hybrid-efficient, is adequately responsive (from its 246 horsepower turbocharged four Car and Driver arrived at 60 in just over 7 seconds) and absolutely sublime. There’s just enough audible to remind you that you’re piloting an internal combustion powertrain, but its smoothness, driving all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic, can almost put you to sleep. But shouldn’t.

Behind the wheel you’re provided with enough info, in a big gauge format, to leave your readers at home, or – at the very least – in the glovebox. The positioning of the infotainment screen is convenient, but then, you’re gonna’ need it. As Car and Driver’s team noted, most operations – ventilation, audio, system controls – are but two-step processes, but this guy wants to do most of that in but one step…and can’t. I’m told a number of OEMs are rethinking the touchscreen; the Evoque team should watch and learn.

For a subcompact SUV the interior space for the driver and front passenger is more than comfortable, but things get more restrictive in back. Space for two adults is OK, but with the abbreviated greenhouse (back in the day, the Land Rover was all greenhouse!) and dark tint the rear seat – as reported by ‘the wife’ – is almost tunnel-like. This small Range Rover is well-suited to young families, with mum and dad in front, while the 2.3 kids are glued to personal screens in the rear!

Parked on the driveway the Evoque makes a very positive impression, although the more organic lines of this second generation aren’t as compelling – IMO – than the more angular sculpting of the first Evoque. And there’s a solidity to its structure often missing from less expensive rides, and may be missing from some of its direct competition. And with the exception of Acura and Lexus, that competition – mostly German – has its own issues in the service drive.

At the end of the week I’m impressed by the Evoque and, more significantly, its outlier vibe in an automotive sea of sameness. I’m not sure I’d buy one (although there seem to be end-of-season discounts on the 2024 lineup), but given a decent lease payment I could be a handraiser. If, after a 3-year lease, you like it, buy it. And if you don’t, Uber over to the Lexus store. Like everyone else.