Range Rover Sport vs. Range Rover Evoque: which is better?
Deciding which Range Rover is the one for you isn't an easy task. Read our comparison review to find out whether the Sport or the Evoque is better for you
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Think of these two cars as shoes. The Range Rover Sport can be likened to a pair of sporty walking boots, and the Evoque is similar to a Nike trainer. Both pairs of shoes serve different purposes, but you could, in theory, use them for the same thing – it just might not feel right.
Aside from their obvious physical differences, both of these Land Rover products are quite similar – but which is better for you?
Styling
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Land Rover has always nailed it when it comes to designing its Range Rover flagship products.
It has to get these right because these models are some of its biggest sellers.
The Range Rover Sport is the ‘cool kid’ of the range. It’s the sort of kid that does every single sport at school yet still has time to be at the top of maths class.
No one’s quite sure how it’s possible, but they just simply dominate. Its looks are aggressive, upmarket and sophisticated.
If this car were in a film, it would be a Bond villain.
Its sloping roofline lends it an almost coupé-like look, which is helped by its heavily tinted rear windows.
This sports SUV makes quite a statement on the road – especially with larger wheel options.
On the other hand, the smaller Range Rover Evoque provides a completely different experience.
Not only is it considerably smaller than the behemoth that is the Sport, but it’s also better suited to urban environments (not that Sport owners live off the beaten track and not in large London townhouses).
All versions have a contemporary, modern look, with that signature sloping roofline, narrow headlights and raised stance.
It’s truly a fantastic urban SUV. Its main rivals are the Audi Q5 and Volkswagen Tiguan – both of which are similar in size to the baby Range Rover.
You can also grab a used Range Rover model to save yourself some money. Both the Velar and Evoque cars can be found at a great price pre-owned.
What are they like to drive?
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Despite weighing close to 2.5 tonnes, the Range Rover Sport offers a fantastic driving experience.
Its steering is responsive and it’s quick in a straight line, especially when fitted with a supercharged 4.4-litre V8 engine.
But despite all its power from either engine option, the real star is the suspension.
Land Rover has managed to create a ride like no other. It soaks up the bumps with ease, yet remains firm enough when tackling a twisty, tight British B-road.
It certainly feels more connected to the road and ‘sportier’ than the standard full-sized Range Rover.
If you’re after a similar driving experience but in a smaller package, then the Evoque has your back.
This pocket-rocket (as SUVs go) is a hoot to drive. It has a great range of petrol and diesel engines on offer, and if you want a more comfortable ride like its larger sibling, opt for one with smaller wheels – the thicker tyre sidewall will make all the difference.
Because of its smaller size, it’s also easier to park in tighter spaces or when navigating smaller city streets.
It’s almost the perfect blend of SUV and hatchback.
Interior and technology
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Moving inside, you’ll not be disappointed by what lies before you with either model.
Starting with the Sport, this is truly a luxury vehicle, which is reflected in its price and plush interior.
In fact, it feels more like the sitting room in an old manor house. The cabin is festooned with leather and high-quality metals, and in the centre of the dashboard is a large display that houses Land Rover’s Pivi Pro infotainment system, which incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
Optional extras include three-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control and a powerful Meridian stereo that's perfect for all your favourite tunes.
Luckily for the Evoque, it shares many of its parts with the larger models, so it sits on top of most – if not all – of its rivals in terms of interior quality.
No matter which trim you go for, all models come with leather throughout, climate control, cruise control and rear parking sensors.
Higher trims offer upgraded automatic LED headlights, automatic wipers and a reversing camera.
Later cars also have smartphone connectivity so you don’t need to worry about learning a new infotainment system too quickly.
Bootspace and practicality
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One of Range Rover’s USPs is space and practicality.
Because of the sheer size of these vehicles, you’re never going to be short of storage options.
The boot on the Sport offers 780 litres of space – plenty for a long weekend away with the family or a large shopping trip.
It’s also got plenty of cupholders and storage solutions throughout.
The Evoque also boasts a large boot, sitting at 591 litres – plenty for a large weekly food shop or to store some suitcases for an airport run.
There are plenty of storage areas dotted around the Evoque’s cabin too, including large door bins, cupholders in the centre console and a decent-sized glove compartment.
Read our in-depth car reviews:
Safety and reliability
Land Rover doesn’t have the greatest history with reliability, but in recent years it's really got its act together and has consistently been making more reliable vehicles.
There's very little to be concerned about with newer models. But if you’re someone who likes to err on the side of caution, then why not check out cinchCare to ensure the longevity of your used car?
As for safety, both cars scored a full five stars following their most recent crash tests – helped by the impressive onboard safety systems and overall size.
Dimensions:
Range Rover Sport
Length: 4946mm
Width: 1990mm
Height: 1820mm
Boot space: 780 litres
Range Rover Evoque
Length: 4371mm
Width: 1904mm
Height: 1649mm
Boot space: 591 litres
Verdict: Range Rover Sport vs. Range Rover Evoque: which should you buy?
We’re sure you’ve come to your own conclusion following our comparison but just in case you need a little nudge, here’s our verdict.
Regardless of your opinion on the music, rappers aren’t wrong. A ‘Rover’ is a seriously cool car, and the Sport is the pinnacle of that.
It's large and spacious, has more power than you’ll ever need on the road and can handle less-than-ideal scenarios with ease.
It’s a proper family companion and will always get you to where you need to go.
However, if you find the standard Range Rover too large and obnoxious, then the Evoque may be better suited to you.
It still benefits from the luxurious interiors that so many JLR products have, yet it’s in a more compact package, without compromising on storage space too much. It’s a true urban hero.