Landrover
The popularity of the Range Rover Evoque continues to keep Land Rover's Halewood plant running at full pelt, as well as managing to keep at least a modest smile on the face's the Tata top brass – who if it weren't for the Jaguar Land Rover acquisition of 2008, might be very sad indeed. But while Tata flounders, its British division continues to wow consumers from Dubai to Manhattan.
And the new 2014 Evoque aims to keep the excitement going. Of course, the basic body shape of the Evoque is no longer terribly new; it having been based on the LRX prototype of 2007.
Seven is fairly old in the buzzy realm SUVs, but seeing as Land Rover virtually invented the segment, perhaps it’s no wonder the original sports utility vehicle looks a little familiar to us now.
Central to the update is a new 9 speed gearbox, replacing the not-so-smooth six speed automatic. There are a few low-key alterations to the exterior – revamped wheels, flashy new badges and a clutch of new cabin decors.
'Chelsea tractor' haters might have their snidey remarks rebuffed with a mention of the additional 4mpg. OK, it's not much, but if they don't leave you alone after that stat, you can always use the vehicle's improved performance and agility to speed off into the sunset, or possibly just to Tesco.
Aside from new 20in wheels, 2014 buyers will also get larger front brakes, improved dampers and tweaked steering.
Motoring gurus in the press have criticised the SUV's larger wheels, suggesting it hampers ride comfort. Handling and steering however, get the thumbs up.
Overall, the Evoque is still a reliable, poised SUV that won't have you reaching for your annual breakdown cover policy too often, even when ascending a rugged Scottish Munro in one.
Priced from £38,170, the 2014 Evoque is on sale now.
Breakdown Cover from 
