Land Rover Range Rover Evoque L551

Evoque in brief

The Evoque was introduced in 2011 and has been produced in two generations: L538 (2011–2018) and L551 (from 2019). The first generation was offered with a 5-door, 3-door (Coupé) and, from 2016, a convertible body style, while the second is only available with 5 doors.

The Evoque is praised for its distinctive looks, high-quality interior and urban practicality: it's compact but tall, so you get a good view of the road. It's more of a city and highway car than a true off-roader, although most versions come with all-wheel drive and handle gravel and snow with ease. Maintenance is pricier than for similarly sized mainstream models.

L538 and L551 — what's the difference

The L538 generation (2011–2018) was based on Land Rover Freelander 2 technology. Early models had 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre petrol engines, while the 2015 facelift (2016 model year) brought new Ingenium diesel engines, a more up-to-date infotainment system and often LED headlights.

The L551 generation (from 2019) retains a similar look but is built on a new platform: it's slightly roomier inside, quieter and more modern. Often found with the Touch Pro Duo multimedia system featuring two touchscreens, most engines come with a 48V mild hybrid system, and since 2020, the plug-in hybrid P300e has been offered. 2023 model year cars received the Pivi Pro multimedia system with a single large curved screen.

The used market is dominated by L538 generation cars, making it the most affordable way to get a Range Rover. If your budget allows, consider the refreshed L538 (2016–2018) or the L551 — they're more modern and economical.

Engines and transmissions

Early L538 cars are primarily powered by the 2.2-litre diesel engines — the TD4 (around 150hp) and SD4 (around 190hp); the eD4 version was front-wheel drive only. The 2.0-litre petrol Si4 (around 240hp) is less common. From 2015–2016, the diesels were replaced by the 2.0-litre Ingenium (TD4 — around 150–180hp).

In the L551 generation, engines are designated by power, for example, D150, D165, D180, D200 or D240 — all 2.0-litre Ingenium diesels. Petrol engines are the P200, P250 and P300 (2.0-litre), while the P300e is a plug-in hybrid with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor at the rear axle.

Early L538 models came with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox, while a 9-speed ZF automatic has been offered since 2014. The L551, on the other hand, mostly comes with a 9-speed automatic; the manual was only available in the cheapest front-wheel-drive versions.

What to check when buying a used Evoque

The 9-speed automatic should shift smoothly: hesitation at low speeds or frequent delays shifting can indicate that the software needs updating or the gearbox needs servicing. Ask if any manufacturer recalls or updates have been carried out.

Early 2.0 Ingenium diesels were known for timing chain issues — a cold engine shouldn't rattle after starting, and the oil change history should be in order. For diesels that have done a lot of city driving, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve, and for newer models, the AdBlue system too.

Electronics are a weak point for the Evoque: test the multimedia system, cameras, electrically operated tailgate, and climate control, and ensure the diagnostics show no faults. For plug-in hybrids, ask about the battery condition and charging history. Check the body for painted-over parts and uneven gaps, and the service history for the ride.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.

L551 generation trim comparison

For most buyers, the SE with a diesel D165–D200 or petrol P200 engine is the best bet. The HSE is worth considering for luxury, while the R-Dynamic stands out for its looks: technically, it doesn't differ from the standard versions.

Frequently asked questions