New Range Rover Evoque hybrid on the way
The next generation Range Rover Evoque, due in 2019, will feature a 48V mild hybrid system
The new second-generation Range Rover Evoque will feature hybrid technology, Auto Express can confirm. The new model has been caught testing in the UK, and the registration reveals it to be a 2.0-litre car with a hybrid electric fuel type.
Although a Land Rover spokesman refused to comment, Auto Express understands that the car will feature a 2.0-litre diesel Ingenium engine with a 48V mild hybrid system.
The new car is based on a heavily revised version of the venerable D8 platform, which is understood not to be able to incorporate plug-in technology. However, a 48V system will fit and may enable the Evoque to run in electric mode over a short distance. It will also help to improve throttle response, eliminate turbo lag and improve fuel efficiency.
Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth announced in September that every new model launched after 2020 will feature electrification and this mild hybrid system would enable the new Evoque, and the next-generation Discovery Sport that also sits on the D8 platform, to live up to this billing. Jaguar’s new E-Pace SUV is also based on the same chassis architecture so it, too, could be in line for the mild hybrid tech.
We expect the new Evoque to be unveiled towards the end of this year, possibly at November’s Los Angeles Motor Show, and go on sale in the first half of 2019. A new Discovery Sport is likely to be another couple of years away, with a reveal expected in 2021.
As our exclusive preview has already revealed, the new Evoque will feature evolutionary styling, with a similar profile to the existing car and cues from the Range Rover Velar at the front and rear. However, it’s expected to be around 20mm longer, in keeping with the Jaguar E-Pace, to offer improved passenger and luggage space.
Electrification is not the only exciting thing happening at JLR. Read our feature on the marque's deeply impressive Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works here.
Get the latest electric car news, reviews and analysis on DrivingElectric.com
