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The new Range Rover Evoque hits Paris in style

Range Rover Evoque - Side View

It’s pretty hard to see the differences between the production version of the Range Rover Evoque to the LRX concept car – a significant evolution from the traditional design cues of the past.

The most bold element of this design is the dramatic rise of its beltline, running the length of the car, originating from a unique fender vent that appears connected with the front lamps, ‘behind’ the front wheel arch. As a result the overall feeling from this cross-coupe brings about a directional forceful stance, contrasting the more classical ‘upright’ functional appearance.

Gerry McGovern discusses the new Range Rover Evoque design philosophy

If it is indeed as well off the road as its predecessors, the Evoque will embody an idea that has transformed from functional form to form that is functional – potentially broadening its appeal.

*Detailed images coming soon

Range Rover Evoque - Front

Having high expectations on designs that come out from Ford would not be unreasonable if you were to see the examples of the Mondeo, Fiesta (Fast as a spear) and in some ways, the Taurus (Elegance that needs cosmetic surgery). I have to be honest, the first visual impact-opinion I had when seeing the new Focus was that of a brave boldness, mostly referring to the gaping vents at the front, and to how dramatic they were.

I don't mind the front end in the production version. It is distinct. But you can see what they were trying to relate to (the Fiesta - sketch)

Now that I’ve calmed down a bit and seeing the front end as an isolated element, I can see where they were coming from with that front end in its relation to the successful Fiesta, but am struggling to see why they didn’t try and make it more obvious as the vertical bars that support the lower in mouth seem weak, almost flimsy.

Front end comparison

Along the fenders are muscular wheel arches created by curved lines that lead over a belt line that connects them visually. A resultant intersection of surfaces and lines has a dynamic effect which again is pretty cool in isolation, but I have to admit struggling to see the harmony in relation to the rest of the car. It just seems a bit forced… can you see it?

A typical rear end - Not sure about that rounded section though.

Rounding up the rear is effectively a result of connecting the surfaces over the rear fenders. The graphical breakup is typically Ford, being inoffensive except for the tail lamp that seems out of place, and the surface of badge placement that seems a bit round. The front also seems a bit stiff around the bonnet area, now that I take a second look.

Some lines create forced surfaces that don't match. The tail light also seems out of place.

Overall the proportions of this design are desirably proportioned, just like the other products in the Ford range. However, with the high standard expected from those products, it becomes easy to notice the awkwardness when there are a couple out of place elements.