What a versatile little thing is the Range Rover Evoque.
The classy little luxury SUV – like a shrunk-down version of its iconic Range Rover namesakes (the Vogue, Velar and Sport) – has been a hugely successful addition to the British brand by combining the luxury and versatility of its siblings with a price tag that's within the reach of empty-nesters and young families.
And its chameleon-like ability to morph and change to keep up with changing tastes has made it a popular fashion accessory. Even Posh Spice Victoria Beckham has been spotted driving one.
Since its launch a dozen years ago this column has driven the Evoque in almost every configuration – from coupe to convertible, two doors or four, diesel, petrol; all-wheel-drive or two-wheel and now, inevitably, electric.
Well, plug-in hybrid to be precise.
It stands to reason that, more than a decade since the model's launch and now well into its second generation, the Evoque has finally joined the cool kids club with a low-emissions option.
In fact you could argue that's still a cautious step into the future for a machine that has for so long traded on being thoroughly modern.
Called the Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic HSE P300e electric hybrid this new machine sits a small stone's throw from fully-fledged electric power to be expected in coming months.
The company is promising six new all-electric Land Rover/Range Rover models early in the new year – starting at the top with the Range Rover Vogue which only recently reached our shores.
The Evoque raised a few eyebrows when it was first released, mainly around its catwalk pedigree and the perception that something so pretty could be a "real" Range Rover. But much of that criticism was because of its very posh, urban styling rather than shortcomings with the vehicle.
The Jaguar-Land Rover family was among the first to enter the EV sweepstakes with the all-electric Jaguar i-Pace which has been on the market for almost six years, although the takeup has been modest.
So, what to make of this clever little Evoque.
Like its bigger Range Rover sibling, its squared-off, "three box" design has proven to be timeless to the point it still looks as fresh and smart as anything on the market. That's in part because the cabin has been steadily upgraded with each passing model.
This first plug-in (PHEV) Evoque hits the market at $104,310 – not too steep when compared to other models in this growing category but also $20,000 more than you would pay for the equivalent "non EV" P250 Evoque.
Perhaps more to the point, you can buy the fully-electric, all-new BMW iX3 for just $500 more than the Rangie. The Beemer is better equipped, newer and brings massively superior dynamics. Volvo's XC60 Recharge, a bigger and equally capable all-electric option, is about $3000 cheaper than the British rival.
But the news is not all bad – not by a long shot.
For a start, the plug-in-hybrid format - only ever considered to be a stepping stone in the journey from petrol to electricity - has earned quite a following in the market.
Partly because it's not overtly expensive, secondly because it's incredibly frugal and, most significantly, because it virtually does away with range anxiety.
Even a few years into its model life, this second-generation Evoque still delivers a sense of comfort, modernity and high-end style that shades many rivals.
Because much of its technology flows down from bigger models like the Range Rover and Land Rover Discovery, it boasts some smart electronics and technology, even if design-wise it is slipping a little behind its German rivals.
The impressive-looking three-screen dash setup is modern and classy.
This Evoque is the first to use a new, sharp-looking wool-blend style upholstery called Kvadrat and Dinamica suede in place of the traditional leather. It will divide opinion - especially as it adds $527 to the price, but it looks very sharp and would be ideal for chilly climates.
Interior space is adequate if not outstanding.
Ironically the P300e, like many of its rivals, uses a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine as its staple powerplant. To that, the lithium-ion batteries adds up about 60km of electric cruising range.
That might sound a bit puny when compared to the full-time EVs, but the Evoque's total range (including petrol) stretches beyond 700km.
With a combined 227kW under the bonnet and a gutsy 540Nm, it's also no slouch, with a 0-100kmh sprint of just over six seconds.
Put that to good use and you'll find yourself outrunning all manner of pseudo-performance machines. Even with its biggish size (2089 kg) and its generous provision of features, it measures up well against the mild-hybrid version.
Land Rover says it will cruise at 135km/h in pure EV mode, but most buyers will opt to save this power for urban running (adjustable via the touch screen).
A commercial charger will restore about 80 per cent power in 30 minutes, while a home socket will fully recharge the battery in about two hours
It goes without saying the Evoque handsome - it is built by Range Rover after all - and that's driven home by the 20-inch wheels and crisp lines. No wonder it became such a fashion item in years past.
Now all that remains is for a fully-electric option - or at least for the plug-in hybrid to come back into fashion.
RANGE ROVER EVOQUE PHEV P300 R-DYNAMIC HSE
HOW BIG
While it's pitched against SUVs like the BMW X3 and Benz GLC, it doesn't quite match them for interior space.
HOW FAST
With all manner of propulsion - hybrid, EV and turbocharged petrol - it will reach the 100km/h mark in 6.2 seconds. Decent if not dazzling.
HOW THIRSTY
With a claimed average thirst (including some EV support) it can sip as little as 2.3L/100km, which is excellent.
HOW MUCH
While it's not as much of a leap forward as other EVs, the Rangie boasts a "grown up" pricetag - $104,310, plus on roads - as tested.
