First we saw the crazy Range Rover Evoque convertible concept before hearing rumors that Land Rover wanted to expand the Evoque line with a seven-seat version of the internationally popular crossover. A baby Range Rover Evoque may be next on the automaker’s list, according to a new report from Automotive News.
Though sales of the Range Rover Evoque are currently only limited by the number of models Land Rover can produce, a company spokesman told the publication that with so much attention on sustainability (and fuel economy), “you could argue that smaller and lighter is the way to go.”
With the new flagship Range Rover SUV losing more than 700 pounds compared to its predecessor, the company has clearly shown that weight loss is a key topic for its engineers. As for a subcompact crossover placed below the Range Rover Evoque, such a vehicle could compete in price with the BMW X1 and Audi Q3, not to mention the Land Rover LR2. Though a new baby Evoque could be just right for somewhat affluent urban style-setters everywhere, we wonder how it would affect sales of the LR2. Refreshed for the 2013 model year, the Land Rover LR2 is now powered by the 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 in the Evoque, and we’d be surprised if a baby Evoque didn’t include that as one engine option. The 2013 LR2 costs $37,250 to start while the Evoque starts in the mid-$40,000 range.
The 2013 BMW X1 starts at $31,545; a small Range Rover could fit well in that price range and help increase Land Rover’s average fuel economy numbers, as well.
Courtesy of motortrend.com
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