Land Rover’s recent bout of model expansion shows little sign of abating as indications of a larger Range Rover Evoque spin-off have hit the ‘web.
Word has it that the British carmaker is in the process of developing a larger version of its popular Evoque compact SUV. Early reports suggest that the vehicle, codenamed L560, will emerge by the end of 2015.
The above renderings via motorbeam show a vehicle with considerably extended wheelbase and a raised roofline akin to that of the Range Rover. In terms of the styling, the renderings are purely speculative, as the actual design and detailing earmarked for this model has yet to be pegged down.
The Evoque has garnered a great deal of praise from the motoring for its eye-catching design and clever engineering, but it has been hamstrung by frequent criticism of its relatively cramped rear accommodation and limited practicality. This is where a “jumbo” Evoque could possibly make amends. It has been suggested that Land Rover intends to initially launch l560 as a five-seater with a view to introducing a seven-seater version further down the line.
Land Rover will probably stick with the Evoque’s existing engine line-up, making improvements to both the transmission and powertrain during the L560’s model life.
There is also word that Land rover’s parent company, Tata, is mulling the idea of setting up a manufacturing facility for the next-generation Land Rover Defender in Gujarat, India. As a country, India’s access to relatively cheap skilled labour and growing industrialization has made it a fertile ground for producing cars at a lower cost point than most markets – something that could count in the next Defender’s favour should those savings be passed on to the customer.