Few brands are as synonymous with off-road capability and luxury as Land Rover. Known for their rugged yet refined vehicles, Land Rover continues to dominate the premium SUV segment alongside the likes of Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
With an enviable lineup that includes the Defender, Discovery, and Range Rover models, Land Rover caters to a broad spectrum of SUV buyers, from those seeking true adventure to those desiring high-end luxury.
We’re taking a look at the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport; two closely related SUVs competing in the used premium compact SUV market.
Contents
- Introduction and Design
- Versions and Performance
- Interior and Technology
- Practicality
- Value and Final Thoughts
Introduction and Design
Land Rover’s appeal lies in its ability to provide drivers with luxury and off-road capability. While both the Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport belong to the same family, they offer distinct styling cues and character.
The Evoque (pictured), with its sleek, coupé-like design and stylish details, appeals more to those wanting a trendy compact SUV. Its sloping roofline and sharp aesthetics make it an unmistakably premium choice, embodying the Range Rover ethos of luxury-first design.
The Discovery Sport, on the other hand, is a more traditional SUV. It carries a more upright stance, a longer wheelbase, and a design that prioritises practicality. Its boxier proportions make it instantly recognisable as part of the Discovery lineup, and its rugged stance caters well to adventurous families.
Both SUVs feature signature Land Rover design elements, including the floating roof, bold grilles, and premium lighting designs, making them attractive choices in the used market.
Versions and Performance
Choosing between the Evoque and Discovery Sport isn’t just about design, it’s also important to consider driving dynamics and powertrain options. Both the Evoque and Discovery Sport offer petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines, but their driving characteristics differ.
Range Rover Evoque
Despite the name, the Evoque is the sportier of the two, with a lower stance and sharper handling. It’s well-suited for city and motorway driving and offers a composed, agile, and engaging ride.
The petrol lineup includes the P200, a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 197bhp, which offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. The P250, with 246bhp, provides stronger acceleration and a more dynamic driving experience, making it a better choice for those who want extra power on the road.
For diesel options, the D165 is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with 161bhp, prioritising fuel efficiency while still delivering decent mid-range pull for everyday driving. The more potent D200 increases output to 201bhp, giving it better performance for longer motorway journeys while maintaining 51mpg.
The plug-in hybrid P300e is the most powerful of the range, combining a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a total of 309bhp. With an electric-only range of up to 34 miles, it’s a great option for urban commuting and delivers impressive acceleration when needed.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Discovery Sport (pictured) leans more toward comfort and practicality than driving dynamics, but it shares the same core engine lineup as the Evoque.
The P200 petrol engine delivers smooth and refined performance, making it a suitable option for drivers who want comfort over outright speed. The P250, with its added power, ensures a more effortless drive, particularly on motorways or when overtaking.
If you want maximum efficiency, the diesel-powered D165 is a great option, offering strong fuel economy and relaxed long-distance cruising. The D200, with its additional power, is better suited for those who frequently carry heavier loads or travel longer distances.
The P300e plug-in hybrid matches the Evoque’s 309bhp output but benefits from the Discovery Sport’s roomier cabin, making it a more practical option for families. With its electric-only range, it provides a useful way to reduce fuel consumption on short trips, while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer journeys.
With a longer wheelbase and slightly softer suspension, the Discovery Sport delivers a more composed and comfortable ride over rough roads and long-distance trips. Whilst both models come with Land Rover's Terrain Response system, the Discovery Sport is the one to go for if you want an excellent off-roader.
Interior and Technology
In typical Land Rover style, both SUVs boast premium interiors with high-quality materials throughout, catering to different buyer preferences.
The Evoque leans toward a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Its dashboard features a sleek dual-touchscreen infotainment setup that enhances its futuristic feel. High-quality materials, including leather upholstery, soft-touch plastics, and metal accents, contribute to its sophisticated ambience.
The Discovery Sport, while equally premium, is designed with practicality in mind. It shares the same Pivi Pro infotainment system as the Evoque but incorporates more physical buttons for ease of use, especially when on the move.
Higher-spec models add luxurious touches such as Windsor leather upholstery, a larger digital driver display, and an upgraded Meridian sound system.
Both SUVs feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, while optional extras include a digital driver display, wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and heated seats, depending on the trim level.
Practicality
When it comes to practicality, the Discovery Sport stands out. One of its biggest advantages is the option of a 7-seat configuration, making it a great choice for families who need extra passenger capacity. In contrast, the Evoque is strictly a 5-seater, which may suit individuals or small families who don't require the extra space.
The Evoque offers 472 litres of luggage capacity with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1,156 litres when folded. While this is practical for everyday use, the Discovery Sport provides significantly more room.
In 5-seat mode, it boasts 840 litres of boot space, increasing to 1,451 litres with the seats folded flat. For those who need to carry bulky items or luggage for family trips, the Discovery Sport is the more accommodating choice.
The Discovery Sport’s slightly larger dimensions also translate to more rear-seat legroom, making it a comfortable option for long journeys with passengers. While the Evoque still offers a spacious and premium cabin, its design is more compact, which may feel a little more restricted for those regularly transporting multiple passengers.
Value and final thoughts
Both the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport offer strong value in the used premium SUV market, catering to different buyer needs.
The Evoque is the right choice if you value style, technology, and a more dynamic drive. Its compact size makes it well-suited for city life, while its premium materials and modern tech ensure a luxury experience.
The Discovery Sport is the more practical choice of the two. With its option for seven seats, spacious cabin, and comfortable ride, it’s an obvious option for families or those needing extra versatility.
Both models offer petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options, balancing efficiency with performance. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prefer the Evoque’s attractive design and sportiness or the Discovery Sport’s refinement and spacious practicality.
Still undecided? Rivals like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, or Volvo XC60 are worth considering, but for the best of both worlds in terms of luxury and capability, these Land Rovers remain top contenders.
Find your perfect used car at Evans Halshaw
At Evans Halshaw, we offer a comprehensive selection of used Land Rover deals for you to browse through online, whether you're after a used Range Rover Evoque, Land Rover Discovery Sport, or another premium SUV,
Alternatively, visit your preferred Evans Halshaw retailer for a closer look, or check out more comparisons and buying guides in our dedicated blog section.
