We know Land Rover has been testing an Evoque Cabrio model for the better part of a year now. It was even seen at the test center they have near the dreaded Nurburgring track, but no actual track footage has been shown until today.
The Range Rover Evoque is almost a household name across the world. It's small enough to squeeze through traffic without problems yet still capable of tackling the rougher terrain. And let's not forget that this is a seriously beautiful bit of kit, which many people say looks like a concept car put into mass production.
Despite this, the Brits are going to reinvent their baby model by chopping the roof and turning into a convertible. Many 4x4 have had rag-top versions, even the G-Class, but this is a proper convertible. You just flip a switch, and the top goes up in a matter of seconds.
When examining the prototype in this spy video shot by Motor1, we noticed that the new Evoque Cabrio has a bigger and more pronounced front spoiler, similar to the one installed on the Evoque facelift. It also comes with a huge trunk lip spoiler. Downforce for the back axle is a huge problem with some cabriolet models.
As some of you may remember, Audi had to recall every first-generation TT Roadster and install a similar spoiler. Without it, the back would go light at high speed, resulting in unpredictable and dangerous handling.
More advanced multi-layer canvas roof technology will ensure the cabrio is almost as quiet inside as a 3-door Evoque coupe. However, there's nothing that can be done about the weight. Removing the roof of the car makes it less stiff, so bracing needs to be added to the windshield pillars, underbody and anywhere else engineers can squeeze a bit of metal.
That said, the prototype's driver is tackling the Nurburgring like it's his last day on earth. The Evoque pivots well though the corners and is likely using its brakes to mimic the workings of a limited slip differential.
Despite this, the Brits are going to reinvent their baby model by chopping the roof and turning into a convertible. Many 4x4 have had rag-top versions, even the G-Class, but this is a proper convertible. You just flip a switch, and the top goes up in a matter of seconds.
When examining the prototype in this spy video shot by Motor1, we noticed that the new Evoque Cabrio has a bigger and more pronounced front spoiler, similar to the one installed on the Evoque facelift. It also comes with a huge trunk lip spoiler. Downforce for the back axle is a huge problem with some cabriolet models.
As some of you may remember, Audi had to recall every first-generation TT Roadster and install a similar spoiler. Without it, the back would go light at high speed, resulting in unpredictable and dangerous handling.
More advanced multi-layer canvas roof technology will ensure the cabrio is almost as quiet inside as a 3-door Evoque coupe. However, there's nothing that can be done about the weight. Removing the roof of the car makes it less stiff, so bracing needs to be added to the windshield pillars, underbody and anywhere else engineers can squeeze a bit of metal.
That said, the prototype's driver is tackling the Nurburgring like it's his last day on earth. The Evoque pivots well though the corners and is likely using its brakes to mimic the workings of a limited slip differential.