Range Rover Evoque Dubbed 2012 North American Truck of the Year

BEDFORD, N.H. (01/19/2012)(readMedia)-- Though not a truck in the strictest sense, the 2012 Range Rover Evoque that went on sale at Land Rover dealers last fall is capable of feats typically reserved for heavier-duty vehicles. That ability, combined with the compact SUV's boulevard-worthy styling, helped the Evoque take home the 2012 North American Truck of the Year award at the Detroit Auto Show last week.

Chosen by a jury of 50 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada, the North American Truck of the Year award is designed to recognize the most outstanding new truck or SUV of the year. Only new or substantially revised vehicles were eligible, and judges scored entries on innovation, comfort, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar. With 254 total points, the Range Rover Evoque easily outpaced the second-place Honda CR-V's 142 points, bringing Land Rover the annual award for the first time ever.

"The Evoque has been lauded in review after review since its release, so it's not a surprise that the same journalists would consider it their North American Truck of the Year," said Michael Koltz, general manager of New Hampshire Range Rover dealership Land Rover Bedford. "There was some concern when the Evoque's sleek styling was first revealed whether it could hold its own off road among other Range Rovers, but it has passed the test with our discerning New Hampshire customers."

The Evoque's off-roading ability comes from the engineering and technology it shares with its larger siblings. Thanks to technology like Terrain Response, the Evoque's driving style can be customized to tackle nearly any condition, from sand to ice and snow. Meanwhile, the compact SUV has 8.4 inches of ground clearance and can wade through nearly 20 inches of water, allowing it to hang with the big boys.

With that ability to make the most of inclement conditions, the Range Rover Evoque was recently named the top vehicle on Kelley Blue Book's Top 10 Winter Cars for 2012 list. The automotive research firm made note of the combined power and fuel efficiency of the Evoque's turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 240 horsepower while returning 28 mpg on the highway.

While the Evoque may be earning accolades for its abilities, many fans of the brand will be equally attracted to the vehicle's exterior styling and luxurious interior. Going from concept car to production model nearly unchanged, the Evoque sports an aggressive look, with a raked windshield and sloping roof. Inside, the Evoque is swathed in soft leather and brushed-aluminum accents, creating a modern, upscale space with room for four adults and their luggage.

"The Evoque is compact on the outside, spacious on the inside and packed with technology normally reserved for dedicated off-road machines," Koltz noted. "That Kelley Blue Book award highlights the all-weather capability of the Evoque, and it's something our New Hampshire customers care a lot about when the snow starts to fall."

About Land Rover Bedford:

Land Rover Bedford has been serving its Granite State customers for over a decade, providing new and used Land Rover and Range Rover sales, service and parts at its New Hampshire Land Rover dealership. With a strong emphasis on customer service, Land Rover Bedford's knowledgeable sales staff can address detailed questions about Land Rover and Range Rover vehicles to help local drivers find the best vehicle for their adventures. Visit them online at www.landroverbedford.com or in person at their dealership at 404 South River Road in Bedford. They can also be reached at 888-236-9471 or found on Facebook.