Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept - but is this one niche too far..?

Range Rover will gauge reaction to its Evoque Convertible Concept at the Geneva motor and assess the potential for what could be another niche SUV model, joining the existing 3-door Coupe and 5-door Evoque.

The concept has been developed by Land Rover Design Director, Gerry McGovern and his team, who said, “The Evoque lends itself beautifully to the idea of a convertible. This study is not a traditional convertible design execution – instead we have worked with the balance of the Evoque’s lines to retain its distinctive shape and create something that is unique and, we believe, highly desirable.”

The soft-top convertible concept is based on the 3-door Evoque Coupe and features a fully retractable roof with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS]. The concept retains the key Land Rover characteristics including a command driving position and all-terrain capability, but then I struggle to imagine who the target customer is likely to be.

I can imagine how fun an Evoque Convertible would be. But will that appeal extend to the urban jungle?

It’s over 30 years since I last travelled in a Land Rover convertible (Defender and Range Rover) – out in the wilds of Africa, so I can imagine how fun an Evoque Convertible would be. But will that appeal extend to the urban jungle?

The Evoque’s dramatic rising waist line and distinctive shape has been retained and the new convertible body style has been achieved with minimal changes to weight and torsional rigidity. The hood is housed in a neat tapered finisher with the roof mechanism stowed discretely below the belt-line.

Inside, the concept is packed with Evoque’s Terrain Response, surround cameras, Park Assist and infotainment system featuring an 8-inch dual view touch screen and a sound system from British audio experts, Meridian.

The Evoque Convertible Concept features unique 21-inch Titan silver wheels and is finished in a new metallic Causeway Grey paint, whilst the interior is in Lunar and Ivory with leather seats featuring perforated panels and Ivory contrast stitching.

Whilst there are no production plans at present, the Evoque Convertible will be on show at Geneva, where visitors to the Land Rover stand will be canvassed for feedback.