The first-generation Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (code L538) marked a historic turning point for the British brand. Based on the LRX concept car, it ushered in the era of premium compact SUVs with a spectacular and polarizing design that has aged very little. Initially available in 5-door and Coupé (3-door) versions, then in a bold Convertible variant in 2016, the Evoque was a huge commercial success. Beneath its luxurious exterior, it is based on a modified Freelander 2 (EUCD) platform. While its off-road capabilities remain worthy of the Land Rover badge thanks to the Terrain Response system, its overall reliability has been marred by electronic problems, issues with the 9-speed automatic gearbox, and, above all, by the early-life issues of the Ingenium Diesel engines introduced during
The Range Rover Evoque L538 is an 'emotional purchase' par excellence. Its design and badge make you forget its practical shortcomings. However, in terms of reliability, it is a vehicle that demands extreme caution. Paradoxically, older models (2011-2014) equipped with the original Ford/PSA 2.2 Diesel engine are mechanically the most robust. Facelifted models (from 2015) with the Ingenium Diesel engine should be approached with great suspicion due to major design problems (chain, oil dilution). If you opt for a recent model, prioritize a petrol engine or demand an impeccable service history with very frequent oil changes.