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Headed for SA: Range Rover's convertible SUV

  • First luxury compact SUV convertible
  • Roof lowers/rises in 18 seconds
  • Most capable all-terrain convertible

London, England – Land Rover has unveiled the world’s first luxury compact SUV convertible.

Range Rover says the Evoque Convertible combines the automaker's crossover SUV with a folding roof to create, Range Rover says, "a no compromise, all-season convertible".

Destined for South Africa in the second half of 2016, pricing, local specification and availability will be released closer to its local launch.

Burgeoning SUV segment

The global SUV market is forecast to grow by 20% over the next five years and Evoque Convertible will play a key role in pioneering a new SUV sector.

Gallery: 2016 Range Rover Evoque Convertible

It uses a Z-fold mechanism which lays flush with the rear bodywork and its fabric roof is the longest and widest currently fitted to a vehicle yet.

Watch: New Range Rover Evoque unveiled

Safety and spec

The fully-automated roof stows in 18 seconds, and can be raised in 21 seconds, at speeds up to 48km/h. With the roof down, loadspace is still a generous 251 litres.

The Evoque convertible uses a high-resolution 25cm touchscreen with Jaguar Land Rover’s next-generation infotainment system, InControl Touch Pro, the first time it has been used in a Land Rover.

For connectivity, the InControl Touch Pro offers smartphone integration, door-to-door navigation, 3G connectivity and a premium sound system.

For peace of mind, the Evoque convertible is fitted with a Roll-Over Protection Device featuring deployable roll-over bars hidden in the rear bodywork. It deploys two aluminium bars within 90milliseconds in the event of a roll-over to create a survival space for occupants.

Watch: Range Rover's Evoque takes on the bends

Engine-choices

Land Rover’s full range aluminium four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines is available with the flagship Si4 petrol leading the way.

Diesel power comes from Land Rover’s 2.0-litre Ingenium engines which provide highly efficient and refined performance with fuel consumption rated at a claimed 5.1 litres/100km and emissions of 149g/km.

Evoque Convertible is underpinned by Land Rover’s world-class all-terrain capability, using the same advanced technologies as Evoque five-door and Coupe derivatives.

Expect the usual off-roading prowess courtesy of four-wheel drive powertrains combines with Land Rover’s nine-speed auto and the Terrain Response system.

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