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Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Land Rover bringing world's first nine-speed automatic transmission to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/land-rover-bringing-worlds-first-nine-speed-automatic-transmiss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/land-rover-bringing-worlds-first-nine-speed-automatic-transmiss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/land-rover-bringing-worlds-first-nine-speed-automatic-transmiss/#commentsFiled under: Geneva Motor Show, Technology, Crossover, Land Rover, Luxury, Off-Road

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque - 9-speed ZF transmission development vehicle - on the road

Among the future shocks to be shown at the rapidly approaching Geneva Motor Show, Land Rover will be displaying a nine-speed transmission it has been working with ZF to develop. Engineered for transverse - read: usually front-wheel drive - applications, the ZF 9HP will replace the six-speed transmission in the Evoque come 2014.

The three extra ratios add just a quarter of an inch in length to the case, yet it's 16.5 pounds lighter than that six-speed. The built-in benefits of the extra gears are better fuel economy and lower emissions, and the even lower gears possible will improve the Evoque's (never-used) off-road capability. The designed benefits are an adaptive shifting system that tailors the transmission to the driving style, a skip-shift function that avoids the need to move sequentially through the gears, and "Fast-Off" and "Curve" modes that take two different approaches to managing upshifts.

While it is the Evoque that breaks the news, it is rumored that the Dodge Dart will be getting this South Carolina-built transmission as well.

Continue reading Land Rover bringing world's first nine-speed automatic transmission to Geneva

Land Rover bringing world's first nine-speed automatic transmission to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9 speed automatic9-speedautomatic transmissionevoquegenevageneva 2013geneva motor showland rovernine-speednine-speed transmissiontransmissionzfzf 9hpWed, 27 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST

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20480332 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014evoque9speed_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014evoque9speed.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Land Rover LR2 spotted... unless it's the LWB Evoque]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/next-gen-land-rover-lr2-spotted-unless-its-the-lwb-evoque/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/next-gen-land-rover-lr2-spotted-unless-its-the-lwb-evoque/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/next-gen-land-rover-lr2-spotted-unless-its-the-lwb-evoque/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, SUV, Land Rover, Luxury, Off-Road

The spy photographers we work with are fairly adept at figuring out what it is, exactly, they happen to be taking a picture of that day. So, when the shooters send notes along with their images, we don't often quibble too much with the conclusions that they've drawn.

Case in point is this new set of spied photographs, depicting what would appear to be a variant of the Range Rover Evoque. Our man on the ground tells us that, tipped off by the slightly disfigured area around the fuel filler and the misshapen wheel arches, the larger-than-normal Evoques seen here are actually test mules for the next iteration of the Land Rover LR2. With the development still in the very early stages, the new LR2 (known elsewhere as the Freelander) may not be ready for primetime until sometime in 2015.

That all certainly makes sense from the perspective of the current Land Rover/Range Rover lineup, still we can't help but at least wonder if there's a chance that what we're seeing is the embodiment of the rumored long-wheelbase Evoque? Smart money may still be on the revised LR2, but we'll keep watching to see what these testers really turn into.

Next-gen Land Rover LR2 spotted... unless it's the LWB Evoque originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 land rover lr2evoquefreelanderland roverlr2range roverspy photosspy shotsFri, 22 Feb 2013 16:29:00 EST

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20472210 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/land-rover-lr2-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/land-rover-lr2-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover recalls 2012 Evoque, LR2 for brake issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/land-rover-recalls-2012-evoque-lr2-for-brake-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/land-rover-recalls-2012-evoque-lr2-for-brake-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/land-rover-recalls-2012-evoque-lr2-for-brake-issue/#commentsFiled under: SUV, Recalls, Safety, Land Rover, Luxury

Jaguar Land Rover has issued a recall of two models, the 2012 Range Rover Evoque and the 2012 Land Rover LR2 over a brake issue. Up to 70 vehicles could be affected, all built on a single day, June 11, 2012. The retaining bolts on the rear calipers of those vehicles could have been torqued incorrectly, with the potential consequence that the brake caliper could detach and cause a loss of braking or damage to the wheel while driving.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that a recall is due to begin no later than January 18, 2013. At that time owners can take their vehicles to their dealers to have the bolts tightened properly if necessary. The NHTSA bulletin below has more information.

Continue reading Land Rover recalls 2012 Evoque, LR2 for brake issue

Land Rover recalls 2012 Evoque, LR2 for brake issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 land rover lr22012 range rover evoqueevoqueland roverlr2National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallsafetyTue, 18 Dec 2012 08:03:00 EST

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20404343 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/evoquerecall12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/evoquerecall12.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda CX-5 named Japan's Car of The Year, Subaru BR-Z wins "Special Award"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Sedan, Japan, Crossover, BMW, Land Rover, Mazda, Scion, Subaru, Toyota, Luxury

The Mazda CX-5 stamped its Kodo design and SkyActiv technology authority all over the Japan Car of the Year awards, taking the top prize ahead of the Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT 86. It is Mazda's second victory in the last ten years, the 2005 MX-5 claiming the same trophy, and the fourth time the Hiroshima company has won.

The award is decided by 60 local "automotive experts and journalists," and open to any passenger car released in Japan from November 1, 2011 to October 31, 2012 that has sold more than 500 units. Each judge gets 25 votes, his or her top vote getting 10 points, the rest of the points being spread among the judge's choice for the next best four cars.

The second-place getters were the Toyobaru twins with 318 votes, the surprise being they didn't beat or get any closer to the crossover. The Subaru BRZ did claw some mojo back, earning the Special Award given to cars that have made "an exceptional impact." The BMW 3 Series was third overall and won the Import Car of the Year award with plenty of room between it and the second place Range Rover Evoque.

The full list of winners is below, along with press releases from the organization and the manufacturers. Congratulations to Mazda on the win.

Continue reading Mazda CX-5 named Japan's Car of The Year, Subaru BR-Z wins "Special Award"

Mazda CX-5 named Japan's Car of The Year, Subaru BR-Z wins "Special Award" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesawardsbmwcar of the yearcx-5evoquefr-sgt 86gt86japanjapan car of the yearland rovermazdascionsubarutoyotaMon, 03 Dec 2012 10:33:00 EST

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20392368 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/japancotycx-5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/japancotycx-5.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover to offer 16 models by 2020]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/land-rover-to-offer-16-models-by-2020/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/land-rover-to-offer-16-models-by-2020/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/land-rover-to-offer-16-models-by-2020/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, SUV, Truck, China, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Russia, Luxury, Off-Road

The Range Rover Evoque was a bold new direction for Land Rover that proved successful, but if reports are to be believed, it is only the beginning of an onslaught of new products. According to a report from Autocar, the brand associated with both opulent motoring and rugged off-road capability is embarking on a massive lineup expansion, with the goal of producing 600,000 vehicles annually and 22 million vehicles by 2020.

In order to accomplish this, a flurry of new modes are planned, including the expansion of the Freelander (LR2) lineup and the unveiling of a new Defender family. The former will include five-seat and seven seat models, while the Defender will also roll out five-seat and seven-seat editions, but also a crew-cab pickup model. Consider our interest piqued.

The Evoque family will also grow, including an Evoque XL, Evoque convertible, and a "baby Range Rover" that would slot underneath the Range Rover Sport. This amonts to a goal of expanding the Land Rover lineup to 16 new vehicles.

Jaguar/Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth has claimed "40 new JLR product launches in the next five years," according to the report. To accomplish this, JLR is throwing 2 billion pounds a year behind this expansion. Roughly 1.8 billion pounds will go to a new Chinese production facility capable of producing 130,000 vehicles per year. The strategic location of the plant can feed the Chinese and Russian markets, which have voiced a demand for more specialized, limited edition models.

This all may seem ambitious, and perhaps even present an overlapping of models. However, if the automotive marketplace has taught us anything in the last decade, it is that there really is no such thing as too many CUVs.

Land Rover to offer 16 models by 2020 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossoverdefenderevoquefreelanderland roverland rover range rover evoquerange roverrange rover sportsuvThu, 08 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST

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20373201 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/land-rover-dc100-expedition-concept-new-york-2012_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/land-rover-dc100-expedition-concept-new-york-2012.jpeg <![CDATA[Ladies Love It: Evoque wins Women's World Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/ladies-love-it-evoque-wins-womens-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/ladies-love-it-evoque-wins-womens-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/ladies-love-it-evoque-wins-womens-world-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: SUV, Crossover, Land Rover, UK, Luxury

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Coupe- white - front three-quarter view

The 2012 Women's World Car of the Year Award winners are in, and the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque has taken top honors. A jury of female auto writers from a total of 12 countries all voted on this year's winners over four categories, including Family Car, Luxury Car, Sports Car and Economy Car, though the panel also awards a trophy for "supreme winner." This year, the Evoque took first place in both Luxury Car and supreme winner segments.

Interestingly enough, the BMW 3 Series drove off with first place in the Family Car category, while the Porsche 911 took the top Sports Car nod and the Honda Civic won Economy Car honors. WWCOTY says that while each category saw a clear winner, the spots for second and third place in each category switched multiple times as more votes came in. You can check out the full list of winners in the press release below.

Continue reading Ladies Love It: Evoque wins Women's World Car of the Year

Ladies Love It: Evoque wins Women's World Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardcar of the yearevoqueland rover evoqueland rover range rover evoquerange rover evoquewomens carwomens world car of the yearMon, 08 Oct 2012 18:31:00 EST

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20343838 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-range-rover-evoque_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-range-rover-evoque.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover Evoque gets new base model, lower starting price for 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/range-rover-evoque-gets-new-base-model-lower-starting-price-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/range-rover-evoque-gets-new-base-model-lower-starting-price-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/range-rover-evoque-gets-new-base-model-lower-starting-price-for/#commentsFiled under: Car Buying, Crossover, Land Rover, Luxury

2013 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque in new

Land Rover has reworked the option sheet for the 2013 Range Rover Evoque with a new base model and a lower entry price. Buyers on (more of) a budget can slide into the Evoque Pure, which lands at $41,995 and is only available in five-door configuration. That's a reduction of around $2,000 compared to the 2012 model (pictured).

The lower MSRP comes with an aluminum roof instead of the gorgeous panoramic laminated glass panel of higher trims, though it can be painted in a contrasting color. Even so, buyers can still look forward to a cabin swaddled in leather and synthetic suede. All trims now have the option of a Park Assist feature and designers have reworked the old grille to include a new black-field Land Rover logo.

Land Rover has also taken some time to update the Evoque's navigation system. Off Road Navigation is now standard on every model equipped with nav, and features info like topographic lines, latitude, longitude, elevation and waypoint functionality. All handy in the rare event your Evoque abandons the beaten path. Check out the full press blast below for more information.

Continue reading Range Rover Evoque gets new base model, lower starting price for 2013

Range Rover Evoque gets new base model, lower starting price for 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 land rover range rover evoqueevoqueland roverrange roverrange rover evoqueFri, 05 Oct 2012 09:14:00 EST

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20339603 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-land-rover-evoque-pure-1349524729_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-land-rover-evoque-pure-1349524729.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover considering sub-Evoque range [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/land-rover-considering-sub-evoque-range-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/land-rover-considering-sub-evoque-range-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/land-rover-considering-sub-evoque-range-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: Crossover, Land Rover

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque coupe - front three-quarter view

Word from an Automotive News Europe report is that Land Rover may build a sub-Evoque compact SUV. According to the report, Design Director Gerry McGovern told ANE, "Certainly, I think we can go smaller," continuing, "In a world focusing on sustainability you could argue that smaller and lighter is the way to go."

While that is far from confirmation of any upcoming product, it does point to the fact that Land Rover is aware of not only environmental concerns, but to the prevalence of increasingly compact luxury CUVs like the Audi Q1, and BMW X1.

It also hints to awareness regarding price. Currently, the Range Rover Evoque carries an MSRP of $43,995 in base "Pure" form. A range-topping Dynamic Evoque Coupe starts at $52,895, and can cross the $62K mark when fully loaded. This pricing leaves room below the Evoque for a smaller, more affordable Land Rover with the streetwise appeal of the Evoque (rather than the more traditional and upright aims of the just-updated LR2).

This is not the first rumor-mongering that we have heard regarding a mini-Evoque (in fact, rumors go all the way back to 2010, before the model was even on sale), but this candid admission from a high-ranking executive suggests that there's real thought being put into the notion. We're guessing that the Evoque's robust early sales and racking up of industry awards has provided added motivation, too.

Some reports suggest that the sub-Evoque model would be a more leisure-oriented vehicle. In order to be truly affordable, this compact 'ute could be devoid of much of the expensive off-road kit that drives up sticker prices.

Would such a move dilute the Land Rover brand? Let us know in our poll below.

Land Rover considering sub-Evoque range [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 land rover range rover evoqueevoquegerry mcgovernland roverWed, 19 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST

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20326301 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2012-range-rover-evoque_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2012-range-rover-evoque.jpeg <![CDATA[Big Daddy Customs turns Tata Safari into Land Rover Evoque]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/big-daddy-customs-turns-tata-safari-into-land-rover-evoque/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/big-daddy-customs-turns-tata-safari-into-land-rover-evoque/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/big-daddy-customs-turns-tata-safari-into-land-rover-evoque/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, SUV, Land Rover, India

Big Daddy Customs Moon Rover

India's Big Daddy Customs has made a Moon Rover. What's that? It's a Tata Safari SUV (pictured at right) made to look like a Range Rover Evoque, but only really from the front, at a low angle, ideally in low light and assuming you'd never seen a real Evoque or the donor vehicle before. To get an idea of dimensions, the Evoque is a couple inches wider than a Safari, but the Safari is nearly a foot longer and more than a foot taller.

Having said that, given what Big Daddy started with, it's not entirely dreadful. The Evoque's signatures have been reasonably approximated, and the "custom white paint job" is part of the package. Nothing's been changed inside, but according to the company's Facebook page. "Apart from glass house area, everything else has been modified in the body shell."

So it's good to know that at least they take their work seriously. We think.

Big Daddy Customs turns Tata Safari into Land Rover Evoque originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketbig daddy customsbig daddy customs moon rovercloneevoqueindialand roverland rover evoquemoon rovertatatata safariSat, 21 Jul 2012 14:04:00 EST

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20282986 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/bigdaddymoonrover-1342878289_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/bigdaddymoonrover-1342878289.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover boosts U.S. allotment of hot-selling Evoque]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/land-rover-boosts-u-s-allotment-of-hot-selling-evoque/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/land-rover-boosts-u-s-allotment-of-hot-selling-evoque/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/land-rover-boosts-u-s-allotment-of-hot-selling-evoque/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover

2013 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque - white - front three-quarter view

The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is selling well here in the States. So well, in fact, that the compact utility is barely sticking on showroom lots. Dealers are reportedly struggling to get an Evoque in the hands of every customer that wants the Beckham-inspired luxury 'ute. They need more supply to meet the demands of potential customers, lest Land Rover lose said customer to a competitor.

High demand is a good problem to have, but Land Rover would prefer to meet demand and reap the financial benefits. Fully aware of the supply issues both in the U.S. as well as globally, the British automaker is reportedly set to boost production of the Evoque by 25 percent.

Currently, 750 units a month are produced at Land Rover's Halewood, England facility, but that number is set to jump to 1,000 vehicles a month, says Automotive News. According to Land Rover North America CEO Andy Gross, this will come as a major relieve for dealers, pointing out that "It's been tough on the network."

While Land Rover sold just 2,244 Evoque models last year as production ramped up, it moved 4,355 in just the first six months of 2012. Even with the big daddy Range Rover selling out the last year before its redesign and a short supply of Evoques, Land Rover sales are up an impressive 21 percent. With a new Range Rover set to debut in early 2013 and Evoque capacity on the rise, it looks like Land Rover should enjoy similar growth in the year to come.

Land Rover boosts U.S. allotment of hot-selling Evoque originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 land rover range rover evoqueevoqueevoque productionevoque saleshalewoodland roverland rover range rover evoquerange rover evoqueThu, 19 Jul 2012 15:45:00 EST

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20281558 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2012-range-rover-evoque-as-smart-object-1628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2012-range-rover-evoque-as-smart-object-1628.jpg <![CDATA[<em>Robb Report</em> releases 24th annual Best of the Best list]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/robb-report-releases-24th-annual-best-of-the-best-list/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/robb-report-releases-24th-annual-best-of-the-best-list/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/robb-report-releases-24th-annual-best-of-the-best-list/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Etc., BMW, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Motorcycle, Specialty, Luxury

Robb Report Best of the Best 2012

Robb Report has released its annual Best of the Best issue, and the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 has been awarded top honors in the automotive category. No surprise there - the Italian supercar was chosen as the magazine's Car of the Year earlier in 2012.

Prefer to go topless? In that case, Robb Report suggests you have a look at the Ferrari 458 Spider. The BMW M5 took top honors in the sedan category and the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque was the winning SUV. We approve of the nods given to the Morgan 3 Wheeler and Icon Bronco, too.

If all those options are still too tame for your tastes, perhaps the Ducati 1199 Panigale, the mag's motorcycle of choice, is more up to speed. Have a gander at the full list of winners in the press release below.

Continue reading Robb Report releases 24th annual Best of the Best list

Robb Report releases 24th annual Best of the Best list originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1199 panigaleaventadorbest of the bestbmwducatievoquelamborghiniland roverm5robb reportrobb report best of the bestFri, 01 Jun 2012 07:59:00 EST

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20248843 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/robb-report-bob-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/robb-report-bob-2012.jpg <![CDATA[Sportier Range Rover Evoque planned?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/sportier-range-rover-evoque-planned/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/sportier-range-rover-evoque-planned/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/sportier-range-rover-evoque-planned/#commentsFiled under: Crossover, Land Rover

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

We can't tell you how many times we've asked an automotive executive about future product plans only to be given the default, "We're investigating new options," or, "Anything is possible," write-offs. So, to that end, here's another bit of grease for the ever-spinning rumormill.

Auto Express reports that Land Rover could possibly launch a sportier version of its entry-level Evoque, dubbed - wait for it - Evoque Sport. The news comes after the British magazine sat down with Gerry McGovern, Land Rover's design director, at the recent Beijing Motor Show. When pressed about plans to expand the Evoque range, McGovern stated, "For the moment, we're looking at the cabriolet and special editions - we could do a more overtly sporty one, for example."

A suggestion, Land Rover: Move the Evoque Sport above the cabriolet on your to-do list.

McGovern didn't spill any more beans about what a Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Sport (what a mouthful) would be powered by, but Auto Express suggests it would likely be a boosted version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged four found in the current model. Of course, more visual aggression would be added in the way of larger wheels, a body kit and a lowered suspension. Beefier chassis and brake components would likely be added to enhance the drive experience, as well.

Assuming the Evoque Sport does come to fruition, we likely wouldn't see it until the end of next year since the current vehicle is still a newborn in the market. So, for now, rumormill, keep on spinning.

Sportier Range Rover Evoque planned? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 May 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20229130 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/08-2012-range-rover-evoque_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/08-2012-range-rover-evoque.jpg <![CDATA[Victoria Beckham edition Range Rover Evoque looks suitably Posh]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/22/victoria-beckham-edition-range-rover-evoque-looks-suitably-posh/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/22/victoria-beckham-edition-range-rover-evoque-looks-suitably-posh/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/22/victoria-beckham-edition-range-rover-evoque-looks-suitably-posh/#commentsFiled under: SUV, Land Rover, Beijing Motor Show, Luxury

2013 Range Rover Evoque Special Edition with Victoria Beckham

It's been the better part of a year since we first brought you reports that Victoria Beckham - who had then just signed on as a celebrity "creative director" for the Range Rover brand - was set to get her own special edition of the chic new Evoque. We didn't know quite what to make of the news then - much less when the British purveyor of luxury SUVs released a teaser just a few days ago - but now JLR has taken the wraps off its glamorous new special edition, and it's not nearly as gaudy as you might think.

As you can see, the second vehicle released by Jaguar Land Rover's new Engineered To Order division (alongside the new Jaguar XJ Ultimate) is characterized by matte black paint, which contrasts with the gloss black and rose-gold trim. The interior is finished in vintage-finish tan leather, with mohair floor mats and a microsuede headliner. It also comes with a four-piece set of fitted leather luggage, and a leather portfolio carrying the owner's manual and bearing Victoria Beckham's own signature.

In other words, it's suitably posh for a vehicle resulting from a collaboration between the Land Rover Design team and the pop star who made her name as Posh Spice. Only five examples out of the 200 planned for production will make it Stateside, with no word yet on pricing. We'll also be keeping an eye out for more images of the luxed-out, matte-finish Evoque when they surface, but in the meantime you can view the solitary pic released so far in high-resolution and delve into the full press release below.

Continue reading Victoria Beckham edition Range Rover Evoque looks suitably Posh

Victoria Beckham edition Range Rover Evoque looks suitably Posh originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20221421 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/posh-evoque_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/posh-evoque.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover teases new Evoque special edition with Victoria Beckham]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/land-rover-teases-new-evoque-special-edition-with-victoria-beckh/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/land-rover-teases-new-evoque-special-edition-with-victoria-beckh/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/land-rover-teases-new-evoque-special-edition-with-victoria-beckh/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Crossover, Land Rover, Beijing Motor Show, Luxury, Off-Road

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque with Victoria Beckham video teaser

Land Rover is using the Beijing Motor Show to reveal a special edition Range Rover Evoque with Victoria Beckham - not "created with" or "by," just "with." It was announced almost a year ago, but Posh Becks has been busy doing the kinds of things keep a woman called Posh busy.

LR has made a vid to support the cause, but it stretches the definition of "teaser" since it's more like 17 seconds of Fashion TV meets Tron in monochrome, bracketed by titles. If you look really closely, you might even see the Evoque in it. Scroll down to check it out.

Continue reading Land Rover teases new Evoque special edition with Victoria Beckham

Land Rover teases new Evoque special edition with Victoria Beckham originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20217743 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/vbeckhamevoque_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/vbeckhamevoque.jpg <![CDATA[Is Jaguar Land Rover poised for an IPO?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/is-jaguar-land-rover-poised-for-an-ipo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/is-jaguar-land-rover-poised-for-an-ipo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/is-jaguar-land-rover-poised-for-an-ipo/#commentsFiled under: Jaguar, Land Rover, Earnings/Financials, Tata

Jaguar Land Rover

When Ford sold Jaguar and Land Rover to Tata Motors for $2.5 billion, the auto industry was in rough shape. And it didn't help that the luxury combo pack didn't exactly have a lineup full of fresh rides.

Only four years have past since that historic sale, but the industry is in much better shape and new vehicles like the Land Rover Evoque and Jaguar XJ have seemingly done wonders for the luxury brands. In fact, Tata's investment may be in much better shape than most anyone would have thought. According to Bloomberg, analysts predict that an Initial Public Offering could show that the brands are worth a combined $14 billion.

That's a monumental return on investment, and there are plenty of reasons for the lofty estimate. Tata reportedly earned $2 billion off JLR in 2011, and sales are at all-time highs. The brands are also expecting major growth in China and Russia, and Tata has promised to double its investment in new products. Tata has also pledged 40 new or refreshed models in the next five years, which is likely more new metal than some full-line manufacturers would be willing to promise.

But while JLR is apparently worth an estimated $14 billion, it appears that Tata isn't quite ready to issue an IPO. Company spokesman Debasis Ray told Bloomberg in an email that Tata is planning to fund the brands through internal cash accruals.

Is Jaguar Land Rover poised for an IPO? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20219020 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/jaguar-land-rover_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/jaguar-land-rover.jpg <![CDATA[Loder1899's Range Rover Evoque Horus gets wide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/loder1899s-range-rover-evoque-horus-gets-wide/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/loder1899s-range-rover-evoque-horus-gets-wide/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/loder1899s-range-rover-evoque-horus-gets-wide/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Europe, Crossover, Land Rover, Design/Style, Luxury

Loder1899 Range Rover Evoque Horus

German aftermarket tuner Loder1899 tells us Horus was an Egyptian god, and Wikipedia says he was usually depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon's head. While we're not seeing much that's bird-like in this customized Range Rover Evoque, a new front fascia with integrated fender flares and a similar treatment for the other end means the Evoque no longer looks like the baby of the Land Rover clan. The vehicle in the photos is also fitted with optional gigantic 11x23-inch wheels shod with 315/35R23 Michelins and a lowered suspension. Without them, the conversion runs €3,032 - or about $4,000, including German taxes. Awful or awesome? Let us know what you think in the comments.

Continue reading Loder1899's Range Rover Evoque Horus gets wide

Loder1899's Range Rover Evoque Horus gets wide originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20215033 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/loder1899-range-rover-evoque-horus-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/loder1899-range-rover-evoque-horus-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Up! named 2012 World Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: New York Auto Show, Coupe, Crossover, Hatchback, Ford, Land Rover, Porsche, Volkswagen, Electric

As is tradition, Day Two of the 2012 New York Auto Show kicked off with the annual World Car of the Year awards. Global entries competed for honors in four different categories, and from the initial list of 34 contenders, the final four were selected this morning.

The big winner was the 2012 Volkswagen Up! subcompact, which takes home the honor of World Car of the Year, beating out its other finalists, the BMW 3 Series and Porsche 911. We've had a chance to drive VW's tiny runabout and, while it would be hard for the automaker to justify offering something this small in the United States (right now), we'd gladly welcome its tossable city dynamics and efficiency here on our shores. With a small bump in power, it could certainly show the Fiat 500 who's boss.

But the Up! wasn't the only car praised in New York this morning. The new 991-series Porsche 911 was named World Performance Car of the Year, besting other nominees like the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 and McLaren MP4-12C. Stiff competition, for sure, but you just can't match the 911's razor-sharp precision, not to mention that this new 991 model is easily the best 911 yet.

Moving on to a different sort of performance, the Mercedes-Benz S250 CDI BlueEfficiency took top honors for its eco-performance, securing the World Green Car of the Year award. In this segment, the other two finalists were the Ford Focus Electric and Peugeot 3008 Hybrid greenlings.

Lastly, the WCOY jury selected the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque for the World Car Design of the Year - not really a surprise, seeing as how the baby Range Rover has been praised for its styling ever since the day it launched. Our condolences to the Citroën DS5 and Volkswagen Up! - you guys just aren't pretty enough.

Stay tuned for more details about this year's awards later today.

Full disclosure: Author is a juror and co-chair of the World Car of the Year Awards.

Volkswagen Up! named 2012 World Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 world car of the year911evoquefeaturedfocusfocus electricfordland rovernew yorknew york 2012new york auto showporscherange roverupvolkswagenwcotyworld car of the yearThu, 05 Apr 2012 09:20:00 EST

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20209179 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2012-volkswagen-up_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2012-volkswagen-up.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover and Aznom craft a special Evoque for Bollinger champagne]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/range-rover-and-aznom-craft-a-special-evoque-for-bollinger-champ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/range-rover-and-aznom-craft-a-special-evoque-for-bollinger-champ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/range-rover-and-aznom-craft-a-special-evoque-for-bollinger-champ/#commentsFiled under: SUV, Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Land Rover, Luxury

Range Rover Evoque by Aznom for Bollinger

Still think drinking and driving don't mix? Well you're right. They don't. But every once in a while something comes along to make us rethink that rift. Like that set of radiator decanters, those Alfa Romeo and Lancia wines, Krug's 1979 Rolls-Royce panel wagon or really any racing car bearing the Martini livery. Or this special one-off Range Rover Evoque.

Crafted by the British luxury SUV brand in collaboration with Italian customizers Aznom, this unique Evoque features a wine-red paintjob with bronze trim and a mate black roof, with an interior bathed in cream leather. It was made for the champagne house Bollinger for the 2012 Vinitaly wine festival, and will accompany a Luxury Lounge motorhome across Europe to promote Bollinger and its fine bubblies. Of course, if your home town is not on its route, you can always check it out in the high-res image gallery for a closer look.

Range Rover and Aznom craft a special Evoque for Bollinger champagne originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20201825 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/webrange-rover-evoque-bollinger1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/webrange-rover-evoque-bollinger1.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover to hire 1,000 in attempt to keep up with Evoque demand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/land-rover-to-hire-1-000-in-attempt-to-keep-up-with-evoque-deman/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/land-rover-to-hire-1-000-in-attempt-to-keep-up-with-evoque-deman/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/land-rover-to-hire-1-000-in-attempt-to-keep-up-with-evoque-deman/#commentsFiled under: SUV, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Land Rover, Luxury

evoque production

Automakers are always attempting to show how popular their new vehicle is, but there are only two ways to truly prove a smashing hit. One is to deliver outstanding sales numbers, and the other is to experience demand so strong that new employees must be hired to help assemble them.

Land Rover is experiencing just such a success with its sexy new Evoque line, as evidenced by its latest press release. The Tata Motors owned luxury marque announced that it is hiring an additional 1,000 workers at its Halewood plant to bolster production. The facility, which currently builds the Evoque and the Freelander 2 (a.k.a. LR2), will now employ 4,500 workers, or three times the number it did in 2009.

With those new hires, the Halewood plant will now be running at or near full capacity, with three full eight-hour shifts. Hit the jump to read over the Land Rover press release which includes details of some of the positions needed at the plant.

Continue reading Land Rover to hire 1,000 in attempt to keep up with Evoque demand

Land Rover to hire 1,000 in attempt to keep up with Evoque demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 land rover evoque2012 land rover range rover evoqueevoquefreelanderhalewoodhiringland roverland rover productionThu, 15 Mar 2012 09:45:00 EST

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20193533 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/halewoodtrimfinal007cropperheader_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/halewoodtrimfinal007cropperheader.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover Range Rover Evoque convertible concept is a good thing gone bad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/land-rover-range-rover-evoque-convertible-concept-is-a-good-thin/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/land-rover-range-rover-evoque-convertible-concept-is-a-good-thin/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/land-rover-range-rover-evoque-convertible-concept-is-a-good-thin/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Geneva Motor Show, Land Rover, Luxury

Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept

Now that the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet has graced the streets of America with its absurdity and ugliness, this Range Rover Evoque convertible somehow doesn't seem so bad. Don't get us wrong, we still don't want one, and honestly, we hope this is one concept that never sees the light of production; but the more we look at it, the more we don't hate it as much as we probably should.

"We believe that the Evoque lends itself beautifully to the idea of a convertible," says Land Rover design director Gerry McGovern. Our apologies, sir, but we respectfully disagree.

So, it's a three-door Evoque without a roof. That's really all there is to say, though we'd absolutely need to see how it looks with the folding soft top in place. After all, the sleek roofline of the standard Evoque is one of our favorite design elements, and as much as we'd like to squint and make believe that the convertible still looks dashing with its cloth hat on, we're skeptical.

Check out the droptop Evoque for yourself in our high-res image gallery live from the Geneva show floor, and be sure to let us know if you love it or hate it in the Comments.

Continue reading Land Rover Range Rover Evoque convertible concept is a good thing gone bad

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque convertible concept is a good thing gone bad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 07:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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