That’s because someone at a pre-show dealer event in Paris took a sneaky photo of the car. Of course, it then quickly found its way onto the internet, which prompted Land Rover to release this official image:
It shows the Evoque wearing a colour scheme that is more Mini Cooper than traditional Range Rover. The contrasting paint will apparently be a no cost option, with a full glass panoramic roof also available for an extra charge.
The engine line-up is expected to be as per the three-door Evoque, which means a choice of three four-cylinder units, all turbocharged.
In Europe, the 2.2 litre diesels will undoubtedly be the popular preference. Available in either 147 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS) TD4 or 187 bhp (139 kW / 190 PS) SD4 guises, both were first seen in the recently updated Freelander 2. To help save fuel, a stop-start system will feature as standard when the manual gearbox is specified.
Across the Atlantic, though, the 236 bhp (176 kW / 240PS) 2.0 litre Si4 petrol engine should account for most North American sales. Land Rover claims it will provide the economy of a four-cylinder with the performance and refinement of a six.
Like the Freelander 2, the Evoque will also be offered with front-wheel drive only. Whether this actually matters to anyone remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt that it brings economy and emissions benefits. According to Land Rover, buyers of TD4-powered cars who forgo all-wheel drive will enjoy a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 58 mpg (4.9 l/100km) and CO2 emissions that are below 130 g/km.
