Range Rover plans Evoque cabriolet

Friday, 29 July 2011 03:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Could 2011’s most exciting new car convert into a cabriolet? The idea isn’t as wild as you may think. Speculation is mounting that a soft-top version of the groundbreaking Range Rover Evoque is in the pipeline.

And when we broached the subject with Land Rover, a spokesperson added fuel to the fire.

“A convertible Evoque wouldn’t be the maddest brand extension. It isn’t a totally crazy idea,” she admitted. “All I can say is watch this space. We’ve got lots of ideas for the Evoque.”

The three-door Evoque is the first-ever Land Rover or Range Rover coupé, and would lend itself perfectly to a layout with a retractable fabric roof. And our exclusive image shows how the head-turning convertible could look.

Anyone thinking a roofless SUV isn’t possible need only check out Nissan’s line-up. Earlier this year, the firm introduced a convertible version of the Murano, called the Cross Cabriolet.

This four-seater crossover has a canvas hood, and is designed specifically for American customers – a lucrative market the Evoque cabriolet could also exploit.

Land Rover claims a key part of the appeal of the regular car – on sale as a three and five-door from September – is the fact buyers can have it anyway they want it. A cabriolet model would broaden that choice even further.

A unique special edition of the Evoque, with an interior designed by Victoria Beckham, has also been confirmed for release early next year. This is an important component of the marketing push behind the newcomer. (AutoExpress)