2012 Range Rover Evoque (LRX) Finally Unveiled

Land Rover has finally unveiled the production version of the Range Rover LRX—officially called the Range Rover Evoque. The name may have been changed, but the Evoque, with its distinctive sporty styling, looks identical to the well-received LRX concept car which had the automotive world all excited.

“The all-new Range Rover Evoque will resonate with customers on an emotional level”, said Land Rover's design director Gerry McGover. “Its unique silhouette accentuated by the distinctive falling roof and dramatic rising waistline creates a modern and relevant execution of the familiar Range Rover design language”.

Land Rover has released precious little technical details, however, although it has been confirmed that two- and four-wheel drive Evoque variants will be available, with some variants emitting less than 130 grams/km of carbon dioxide. In fact, the Evoque will be “the smallest, lightest and most fuel efficient Range Rover ever produced”.

While unconfirmed in the press release, the Evoque is expected to draw power from a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, a 3.2-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol unit and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel hybrid powertrain. A manual transmission is expected to be standard, with an automatic transmission as optional.

To be built in Halewood, U.K., the Evoque has been described as a “global car” that is targeted at a wider audience and more than 160 markets. The three-door version unveiled will be followed by a five-door version later on. The Evoque will make its first public appearance at the Paris Motor Show on September 30, before going on sale in the second half of 2011.