Recently acquired P250 from the original Evoque

[CyberMage]

I retained my newly acquired 2011 original Evoque for an extended period, since I loved it and found it difficult to relinquish. However, it ultimately tested my patience and financial resources increasingly.

In recent years, the vehicle experienced typical Haldex juddering, shock absorber issues, a recall for the power steering rack, failure of the parking sensors loom, a hydrolastic bush leak necessitating a new control arm, seized front callipers, a tailgate that dropped sufficiently to abrade the bodywork, squeaky roll bar bushes, a turbo boost pipe failure and damage to the rear bumper clips from reversing into a wall. Additionally, there was an unusual and distressing noise from the driveshafts

Despite its meticulous upkeep and pristine bodywork, the back bumper was in need of replacement after I repaired it.

The narrative of replacement began; I was disinclined to choose an Ingenium diesel after seeing the prevalent concerns and receiving admonitions from my reliable mechanic, who advised against being misled.

I scheduled a test drive for a 2020 Volvo XC40 Inscription, 2.0 petrol, with 5,000 kilometres on it.

The two-hour journey was in a good vehicle; nonetheless, it did not suit me. I felt uncomfortable, and it was rather loud, while it offered more space, it lacked luxury. However, my partner adored it!

I conducted some calculations and received an unsatisfactory offer for my vehicle. Subsequently, they enquired about a trade-in for our V40CC and provided a fair price, warranting consideration.

It then dawned on me that I had not even contemplated a petrol Evoque!

Consequently, I proceeded directly to the nearby Land Rover dealership, since the unusual sounds intensified with each mile.

Discovered a 2020 P250 R-Dynamic SE Evoque with 7,000 kilometres.

Test drove the vehicle, appreciated it, and negotiated a more favourable trade-in for my own; but, I had not conducted any study about the specifications or insurance.

My vehicle was due for its MOT, but the dealer said he could not accept it without a minimum of one month's MOT validity, necessitating my journey to the MOT facility.

Fortunately, it got through without incident; nevertheless, my technician entered carrying the majority of the gasoline tank cradle, stating, "I took the liberty of removing this as it was about to detach... it serves no purpose, so it is unnecessary." I chuckled and accepted the MOT certificate... relief!

The next insurance payment, due in three weeks, amounts to an additional £23, which seemed acceptable.

To avoid adding further mileage to my cherished Evoque, I returned it to the dealer, who fortunately conducted a test drive around the parking lot, executing sharp left and right turns to assess the differentials, which were functioning properly, and the transaction was completed.

Strangely, the other party proceeded with the transaction for the XC40. Two new automobiles appeared abruptly.

[ElectricEclipse]

You were unable to compose it; you await the arrival of songs 1 and 2, but at least you are content with your acquisitions. 👍👍

[CyberMage]

Initial impressions indicate that the newer models exhibit superior construction quality, with several little inconveniences rectified. For instance, the window door trims are less prone to developing green discolouration due to water retention, and the boot frame no longer directs water directly into the rear lights.

The doors open fully to the bottom, enhancing access to the middle of the vehicle and facilitating ingress. Additionally, a rear camera wash is an essential element. The interior exudes a classy ambiance, creating a pleasant environment, and the central dashboard displays are rather impressive.

However, I have had a few quite bothersome rattles. Based on the road surface, I have identified two sources of noise: one emanates from the split centre console cubby box lid catch, which ceases when opened, and the other originates from the dashboard fascia to the right of the steering wheel. Pressing the hard plastic corner beneath the soft fascia silences the noise, while pulling on the soft fascia produces a squeak against the lower hard plastic. Identifying these sources is a significant step forward.

This model is not as high-spec as my previous Dynamic; it lacks dynamic shocks and dynamic mode, fog lights, and the desired heated steering wheel. The most significant drawback for me is the standard LR sound system, which is adequate for news but severely deficient for music.

I am already seeing the impact of not having mud flaps; I will need to install them. Located within two miles of my community, the R-Dynamic insignia on the lower front door trim is obscured by a layer of dirt splattered from the front wheels.

The vehicle is equipped with Auto High Beam Assist, which is unfamiliar to me; however, it was deactivated. Its functionality does not align with my expectations, as it activates the high beams whenever possible, rather than dimming them when engaged, resulting in the need to frequently toggle the high beams off and on if disabled. Enabling or disabling should be achievable with a straightforward control; maybe it exists, and I have yet to locate it.

The driving experience is markedly different with this vehicle. It is petrol, hence devoid of diesel vibrations and noise; it operates smoothly and quietly, gliding with peaceful tranquilly. It accelerates well, exhibiting little turbo lag at the outset; but, it lacks the robust torque characteristic of diesel engines. Nevertheless, when fully accelerated, it performs admirably, although at the expense of fuel consumption.

This weekend, while travelling across the nation and adhering to speed restrictions without exerting excessive effort, I achieved 34.2 miles per gallon as reported by the remote application. My previous diesel Evoque achieved about 40 mpg, but I no longer drove it conservatively. The current model, however, has a fuel efficiency maximum closer to 28 mpg.

Nav significantly surpasses the previous version, which had subpar routing; it is comparable to my Jaguar, so I am comfortable with it. However, I need to enable data for traffic, although it does support CarPlay. While it necessitates connecting, it functions enough; nonetheless, I am uncertain about the aesthetic of Google Maps compared to the in-car navigation system, and accessing music controls during CarPlay is quite cumbersome.

One problem with the navigation is that I prefer dark mode consistently; however, the primary map transitions to light mode throughout the day, but the directional displays remain in dark mode. The central dial screen exhibits fluctuations between dark and light, which is bothersome.

I removed the RWG SIM from my Jaguar, but it is nonfunctional. I have not had the opportunity to investigate, since the vehicle has been in the garage for months, neglected and alone, due to my preoccupation with other commitments. I am uncertain if this £15 SIM is functioning in the Jaguar as well.

The vehicle exhibited commendable performance in snowy conditions while utilising Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires. However, it occasionally revved excessively in the 3,000 to 4,000 RPM range instead of shifting up. Despite this, it maintained traction consistently. I attempted to engage snow mode, but due to the predominance of wet slush rather than solid ice, there were no indicators on the dashboard, and I observed no discernible difference in performance. The diesel exhibited more controllability during gradual acceleration in snow, but the petrol engine tends to provide power too eagerly.

I still own my Michelin Cross Contacts, but I am uncertain whether those wheels would seem appropriate. Additionally, I have a set of 20" summer wheels in pristine shape, equipped with fresh tires, which I may need to sell.

I need to mention many items that have suddenly become useless to me.

I received my LR experience coupon via email recently, and I am prepared to go with it again.

This represents a significant enhancement compared to the previous Evoque, which is noteworthy considering my fondness for my former model. While the original Evoque possessed a unique allure, possibly due to my selection of it at launch and its initial impact, this new iteration is delightful and will serve as an excellent vehicle. However, it may lack the distinctive sentiment I associate with the original, given my involvement in its launch and related events.

Will I get a another 13 years of exceptional driving from this vehicle... considering it is now 4 years old, we will see.

[QuirkyPixel]

Best of luck

[CyberMage]

The insurance renewal quote for the year reflects an additional 25% rise, after a prior 50% increase from a few years ago, resulting in a substantial cost to insure two vehicles.

The new Volvo has also risen in price by around 20%; the era of £200-300 insurance per vehicle is over.

[nickoyster4]

Excellent exposition on your new vehicle; I hope you have as much pleasure from it as you did from the last one. I am contemplating a change myself, but I believe I will retain mine until it becomes very expensive to maintain.Thus far, everything is ok. 🙂

[CyberMage]

What happened with the coat hooks located inside and above the back doors?

[Rudy7831]

I hope you both will like your new vehicles; I am certain the latest Evoque will surpass your cherished previous model.
I'm pleased your wife like the Volvo; I adore my XC60—it's an exceptional vehicle, and I am attempting to get Mrs. M to consider an XC40 as well.
Best wishes and good fortune.

[KWILB]

Having awaited the release of the new model, I have not seen the earlier versions, so lacking a basis for comparison except than my prior diverse collection, none of which resembled the Evoque.

I am similarly searching, although utterly perplexed over the appropriate course to pursue. I am inclined to transition to a fully electric vehicle, although my rationality, along with others' opinions, suggests it may not be the most prudent choice. I like to retain the Evoque, but I am uncertain about the financial implications of the new fully electric model. (SWMBO may also have considerable influence in that regard).

It is advantageous that you own two new vehicles for comparison, and it will be intriguing to evaluate their dependability.
We hope you have as much enjoyment with your new Evoque as you did with your last one. 👍🏻

[Doncaster34]

I absolutely like reading comprehensive assessments such as this. Thank you!

I just acquired the same model year and specifications as yours; however, a check engine light illuminated on the second day, and I am now awaiting inspection. I will compose an introduction after it is returned and I have had it for some time.

I hope you enjoy extensive journeys with your new Evoque.