Range Rover Evoque Climbs to Top of Class in Its First APEAL Study

CANTON, CONN. (08/07/2012)(readMedia)-- In its first year being evaluated in the J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, the 2012 Range Rover Evoque nabbed the highest consumer rating in the Entry Premium Crossover SUV category. The compact Evoque bested competitors like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 for the honors, as its owners responded very positively to its modern design and impressive fuel economy.

For its 2012 APEAL Study, J.D. Power surveyed more than 74,000 purchasers and lessees of new, 2012-model-year vehicles on more than 80 attributes to determine which models are most liked. In the Evoque's case, the crossover was rated "among the best" in the Overall Performance and Design, Features and Instrument Panel, Style, Performance and Owner-Reported Fuel Economy categories.

"The Evoque has won more than 100 global awards, so it's safe to say that its athletic design, luxury amenities and rugged capability have strongly appealed to sport-utility shoppers," said Adrienne Leader, general sales manager of Canton, Connecticut Range Rover dealer Land Rover Farmington Valley. "It's a perfect vehicle for New England drivers, because it not only stands out while saving gas during your commute, but it is also more than capable of handling road conditions in all four seasons."

The 2012 Range Rover Evoque generates 240 horsepower with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, all while returning up to 28 mpg on the highway. That performance comes with much of the off-road prowess found in other Land Rover SUVs, including the brand's renowned Terrain Response system and an 8.4-inch front clearance to avoid obstacles like rocks and snow banks. With up to 51 cubic-feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, the Evoque has plenty of room for weekend getaway essentials as well.

Advanced features like an eight-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity and push-button start all come standard on the Evoque, and drivers can enjoy their favorite music through the 11-speaker 380-watt Meridian Sound System. Buyers can also choose to add a navigation system or a pair of eight-inch, headrest-mounted screens that play DVDs, games and music for rear passengers. In the style department, vehicle shoppers can select from 12 exterior colors that can be contrasted with white, silver or black on the unique sloping roof, providing plenty of ways to personalize the Evoque.

With the Range Rover Evoque continuing to grow in popularity, Automotive News Europe recently reported that Land Rover plans to increase shipments of the crossover to the United States by 25 percent in order to meet high demand. Starting this fall, the SUV manufacturer will send roughly 1,000 Evoque models to American shores on a monthly basis, an increase of about 250 units per month.

"Considering the positive feelings that current Evoque owners have, it's not too difficult to imagine the additional models finding new buyers quickly," added Leader. "We've seen a steady stream of demand for the Evoque since its debut last year, and that will only continue as more owners share their experiences with others."

About Land Rover Farmington Valley:

Land Rover Farmington Valley is part of the Mitchell Auto Group that has been serving Connecticut motorists since 1922. Specializing in new and used Land Rover and Range Rover sales and financing, as well as Land Rover service and parts, Land Rover Farmington Valley has become the go-to dealership for Connecticut drivers that want luxury and capability to go hand-in-hand. Visit their friendly and knowledgeable staff at 95 Albany Turnpike in Canton, browse their inventory online at www.landroverfarmingtonvalley.com or call them at 888-773-9479. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LandRoverFarmingtonValley.