Land Rover has confirmed that the Range Rover Evoque, the brand’s most affordable SUV, will remain in production until the end of 2027. However, there will be no direct replacement for this popular model once it is discontinued.
End of an Era for the Evoque and Velar
Martin Limpert, Land Rover’s global director, officially acknowledged the end of the Evoque line, alongside the Range Rover Velar, another model being phased out without a successor. While the Evoque was once seen as the gateway to the Range Rover brand, this role will now shift to other models.
The Velar’s disappearance had been widely expected following the development of the new Range Rover GT, which is positioned as an upscale alternative to traditional combustion-engine SUVs. In contrast, the Evoque’s exit marks a significant change in Range Rover’s strategy since its debut in 2011.
The Evoque’s Unique Place in Range Rover History
When launched, the Evoque stood out because of its smaller size, distinctive design, and more accessible price. Early versions, including a three-door and eventually a five-door and convertible variant, helped attract new customers who hadn’t previously considered the Range Rover brand.
This approach proved highly successful, with the Evoque expanding Range Rover’s appeal globally, even stirring controversy after a Chinese company made a near-copy model. However, the second-generation Evoque, introduced in 2019, saw a scaled-back lineup and less impressive engine options, contributing to a decline in popularity.
Range Rover Focuses on Premium Models
Moving forward, Land Rover plans to focus Range Rover solely on luxury models priced from around €100,000 upwards. This shift aligns with the company’s “House of Brands” strategy, which splits SUV roles between Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery, each targeting different customer segments.
With the Evoque and Velar gone, Range Rover’s lineup will consist of three key models: the flagship Range Rover, the Range Rover Sport, and the upcoming Range Rover GT. The new GT model, set for launch in early 2027, will feature a sporty sedan profile, a low center of gravity, and advanced aerodynamics aimed at comfort and long-distance driving.
The Range Rover GT is expected to be expensive, with electric versions potentially starting around €120,000. A hybrid option might be available slightly below €100,000, but the focus will be primarily on the electric powertrain.
Defender Sport to Fill the Small SUV Gap
Although Range Rover is exiting the small luxury SUV segment, Land Rover will still offer compact models under other brand names. The Defender Sport, an electric compact off-roader expected in 2027, is likely to succeed models like the Discovery Sport and partially replace the Evoque, with an estimated starting price near €60,000.
So far, the Evoque will continue to be available for buyers through 2027. After that, the market won’t see a new Evoque model or an electric variant, ending the chapter of the entry-level Range Rover SUV known for making the brand more accessible.
Source: motor.es