Spanning the Gap: A Review of the Range Rover Evoque Convertible

Spanning the Gap: A Review of the Land Rover Evoque Convertible

By: Megan J. Busch

I’m not a girl who knows a ton about cars. I’ve driven Jeeps all my life (as has my mother), and I really haven’t veered off that track—ever. So, I’ve teamed up with the group at Baker Motor Company to try new things, namely cars outside my norm. A few times each month, I’ll be driving one of Baker’s cars and letting you know what I think. This isn’t going to be a series of Car and Driver or Motor Trend reviews. It’s just a girl sharing her honest opinion about some nifty vehicles.

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Land Rover’s new Evoque convertible is a hybrid, but not in the sense that it has electric propulsion capabilities. Instead, it embodies the traditional adjectival hybrid definition—to be of mixed character. Aside from the Porsche 718 Boxster, this Evoque is undoubtedly the most fun car that I’ve driven for Baker Motor Company so far. It’s a beach wagon with a convertible top that makes me feel as though I’m eighteen again. On the other hand, the car’s character is sophisticated, high-end, and appropriate for a working professional. The chameleon-like automobile transforms from a practical vehicle with the top up to an exciting, youthful ride with the top down.

Not only does the Evoque seem to transcend the gap between teenager and adult, but it also covers the varying elements of the Lowcountry lifestyle. There’s no question that Charlestonians really love the outdoors, and the Evoque provides the necessary elements to traverse dirt roads leading to secret marshes and battle the floods of downtown. At the same time, inhabitants of the Holy City are classy, and the Evoque doesn’t cut corners on luxury, from the supple leather to the killer sound system.

I believe that this car compares most closely to a Jeep Wrangler. My first car was a 1996 purple Wrangler, and it had similar characteristics to the Evoque—minus the luxury (I had a tape player and hand-cranked windows). The Evoque takes that sense of excitement often attributed to the Wrangler and amps it up with features that are indulgent and elegant.

So Much Style

There isn’t another vehicle on the market that combines sport-utility elements with a convertible in such a high-end way. Because of this, people are a little surprised when they see the Evoque. While on Folly Beach, I got two separate compliments on the vehicle within five minutes of parking. One couple even stopped to snap photos of the car because they had seen nothing like it before. I think what really catches the attention of onlookers is the sporty appearance. The design of the crossover is muscular and fierce; it’s uncommon to see this type of vehicle transformed into a convertible.

Ready for the Unexpected

The Evoque was ready to take on the terrain no matter where I drove it. It tackled the paved road and a muddy, pothole-filled dirt road with no problems whatsoever. I’m sure the dealership was wondering why it was so dirty when I returned the car, but I had to test it to its fullest potential. I wasn’t nervous about damaging it or getting stuck in loose sand at the beach; instead, I felt fully confident in the car’s abilities. With Land Rover’s Terrain Response technology, the crossover keeps its footing off-road with ease, and with many of the safety features standard on luxury SUVs (like blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure warning), it’s also ready for whatever it encounters in day-to-day highway traffic. Plus, it’s prepared for an accident with an advanced airbag system and roll-over protection to keep the driver safe during a collision.

A Few Negatives to Consider

While the Evoque convertible is absolutely enjoyable, there are two downsides worth considering. First, the trunk is very small. If you regularly carry large items or travel often, there really isn’t much space to store items in the back. Second, the back seat is also a bit cramped with very little legroom. Passengers would fit comfortably for small trips, but longer adventures may be best suited for a larger car. These two items wouldn’t deter me—as a young professional with a small family and access to a truck if needed—from buying the vehicle.  However, they’re definitely worth consideration if you’re thinking of purchasing the Evoque.

Drawing Conclusions

Overall, the Evoque is really ideal for Lowcountry living. It has the capabilities of getting you from one location to the next safely—no matter what the local terrain throws your way. Furthermore, it’s just a stinkin’ cool car. It catches the eyes of others, and it’s exciting to drive. The final verdict? I’m sold. The next time I’m ready for a new car, the Evoque convertible will definitely be on my shopping list!

About this 2017 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Convertible

Yulong White Exterior

2.0L 240hp Turbocharged 4-Cylinder with 250 lb.-ft. Torque

9-Speed Automatic Transition

All-Wheel Drive with Active Driveline

Terrain Response System

19-Inch Alloy Wheels

Hill Descent Control

Electric Convertible Roof

Ebony Oxford Leather Seats

Meridian Audio System

Front and Rear Parking Aids

Blind-Spot Monitor

Cold-Climate Convenience Package

HD Radio with SiriusXM Satellite Radio

Extended Leather Package

Price: $63,727

To test drive the new Land Rover Range Rover Evoque convertible, stop by Baker Motor Company in West Ashley.