What is covered in this Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV review:
- What’s new for the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV?
- Performance of the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV
- How does the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV drive?
- Exterior of the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV
- Interior of the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV
- What’s the spec of the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV
- Verdict on the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV
What is the Range Rover Evoque P300e PHEV?
The motoring world as a whole is under increasing pressure to drive down emissions, and one of the best ways manufacturers have found to do that is by hybridising its existing models. Jaguar Land Rover is no different, applying hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains across its wide-stretching line up of vehicles.
The popular Evoque is one of the latest cars to benefit from an ultra-efficient powertrain, but does it change the whole package for the better? We’ve been behind the wheel to find out.
What’s new?
Of course, that hybrid powertrain is the standout change here, but there have been upgrades elsewhere too. The Evoque benefits from a slightly updated exterior look, while the interior boasts more technology than before.
The fundamentals remain the same, however, with the Evoque’s relatively compact dimensions yet high ride height retained.
What’s under the bonnet?
Here’s where the real changes are. The Evoque P300e uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine which is combined with an electric motor to produce 305bhp and 540Nm of torque, while a 15kWh battery is able to provide enough energy to drive the Evoque on electric-only power for 34 miles.
A direct result of this powertrain is super-low CO2 emissions figures of just 32-38g/km, while a full charge will take around 7.5 hours via a three-pin plug, or 2.75 hours when using a more powerful home wallbox.
What’s it like to drive?
The Evoque has already created a solid reputation for delivering a premium driving experience, and this is only elevated further with this plug-in hybrid model. It’s quieter and more refined than a conventionally-driven model, and even under hard acceleration, the engine stays impressively muted.
There’s not too much roll in the bends, either, which allows you to corner accurately and safely. It’s true, however, that the hybrid powertrain almost encourages a more relaxed driving style, though it’s good to know that you’ve got performance available should you need it.
How does it look?
The latest Evoque does an even better job than its forebears of compressing some of the larger Range Rover’s premium looks into a smaller package. The coupe-SUV look has managed to blend into many manufacturer’s line-ups, but the Evoque manages to do it successfully, combining the sleeker looks and roofline of a sportier model with the upright appearance of an SUV.
It still manages to look chunky and off-road-ready, however, thanks to wide wheel arches and large alloy wheels. The noticeable underbody protection also alludes to the car’s capabilities off the beaten track, too.
What’s it like inside?
It’s easy to see that Land Rover has really doubled down on making the cabin of the Evoque a comfortable and well-appointed place to be. It’s light and clutter free, with well-positioned controls placed within easy reach of the driver.
The dual-screen setup has paid dividends in de-cluttering the cabin. Whereas many manufacturers still rely on physical buttons, the Evoque’s vast amount of in-screen controls helps to tidy up the dash. However, there are still ‘proper’ controls for the heating and ventilation, as well as the volume, which is no bad thing.
What’s the spec like?
Prices for the Evoque P300e start from £44,650, which brings all manner of standard features. Highlights include a digital rear-view mirror which uses a rear-mounted camera to display an image in the mirror housing, as well as a heated steering wheel and a premium sound system.
There’s a new 12.0-inch driver display in the main instrument binnacle, while both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, giving drivers a more streamlined way of integrating their smartphones into the car’s system.
Verdict
It’s fair to say that the Evoque has been a success story for JLR. It appeals to a wide variety of buyers, bringing premium charm and go-anywhere abilities in a well-finished package. This latest plug-in hybrid model only sweetens the deal.
For company car uses, this ultra-efficient model is likely to look extremely appealing owing to a low benefit-in-kind. But even for those who are just looking to reduce their fuel bills, then the Evoque P300e is likely going to be a great fit.