AutoCritical

FEATURED on AutoCritical:

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

This evolution from sketch – concept – production is quite a traditional one. Upon the release of the S60 production images, we are now able to compare the intended design flavor in the sketch to the production car.

Rear Sketch

In my opinion, the most exciting view is from the rear of the car. There are bold lines that flow from the nameplate through to the rear lamp then down to the rear fascia, intersecting the line rear fascia that flows to the body side. I’ve never seen anything like it.

Front Comparison [Sketch - Concept - Production

Similarly the front end has these gestural elements of lines swooping from the bonnet then translating to surfaces around the lamps and down around the grilles. These are also intersected by this clever theme around the lower grilles.

On the body side, a long beltline elongates this elegant and mildly aggressive car, resulting in a muscular form over each of the wheel arches.

Side Comparison [Sketch - Concept - Production

Evidence of this translation to the production car is less dramatic but the intentions are obvious. The bonnet, upper front fascia and beltline capture the most similarities, however throughout the car; the lower half is less inspiring as the concept. Totaling all the minor changes from concept to production, they all add up to a car that you can appreciate for its unique Volvo style, just a bit less dynamic than the designers idea.