When looking at compact Land Rovers, the Range Rover Evoque and the Land Rover Discovery Sport stand out. These models are similar in size and price and share many technical features and engines. However, they differ significantly in styling, interior design, and practicality.

 

Size and Styling Comparison

How do the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport compare in size and styling?

You’d probably call both of these cars mid-size SUVs, but the Evoque is more compact. Measuring just under 4.4 metres long, the Evoque is actually shorter than a Nissan Qashqai, while the Discovery Sport is taller, slightly wider, and about eight inches longer.

The similarities between the design of the two cars are evident, especially at the front, reflecting their shared parent brand. The Discovery Sport has a more boxy appearance, whereas the Evoque is sleeker, with flush-fitting door handles, slimmer backlights, and a more rounded overall look.

 

 

Interior and Tech Features

What are the differences in the interiors and tech features of the Evoque and Discovery Sport?

Both the Evoque and Discovery Sport boast interiors that are great places to spend a journey. They feature minimalist designs with few buttons and dials on their dashboards, relying instead on two touchscreens to control most functions.

The interiors of these vehicles look quite similar. However, the Discovery Sport’s dashboard has softer curves and no separation between its two touchscreens, unlike the Evoque. Both models feature Land Rover’s latest infotainment system, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and built-in sat nav.

 

 

Boot Space and Practicality

Which car offers better boot space and practicality?

While both models are suitable for family life, the Discovery Sport stands out with its option for either five or seven seats. The extra pair in the Discovery Sport fold out of the boot floor and are big enough for most children. The second-row seats in the Discovery Sport can slide backward and forward, allowing you to adjust the ratio of passenger and boot space to fit your needs.

The Evoque and Discovery Sport both offer generous front seat space, but the Evoque’s back seats are a bit tighter due to its sloping roof. The Discovery Sport provides more headroom and legroom in the back, and it’s just about wide enough for three adults to sit comfortably side by side.

 

 

Driving Experience

Which car is more enjoyable to drive?

While the Evoque and Discovery Sport share many mechanical components, their driving experiences differ. The Evoque offers more responsive steering, making you feel more connected to the car, and a generally comfortable ride. It’s a satisfying car to drive, even compared to a BMW 3 Series.

In contrast, the Discovery Sport feels less agile and leans more in corners. It’s not as enjoyable to drive as the Evoque and doesn’t provide as smooth of a ride. However, it’s still a good drive compared to many family-friendly SUVs.

 

 

Engine Options

What engine options are available for these models?

Both the Evoque and Discovery Sport come with the same selection of petrol and diesel engines, as well as a plug-in hybrid option. The Evoque, being slightly lighter than the Discovery Sport, accelerates a bit more quickly.

Off-Road Capability

How do these cars perform off-road?

Both vehicles are capable of handling off-road conditions, a hallmark of the Land Rover brand. The Terrain Response system adjusts settings based on the type of surface, making both models reliable in various terrains, whether it’s a muddy car park or a rocky trail.

Ownership Costs

Which vehicle costs less to own?

The Evoque and Discovery Sport offer similar fuel economy, with the Evoque edging out slightly due to its smaller size and lighter weight. Petrol models return an average of 24mpg to 32mpg, while diesels give 32mpg to 47mpg. The plug-in hybrids offer 141mpg to 198mpg and have a battery-only range of about 40 miles.

Safety and Reliability

Are the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport safe and reliable?

Both models have received five-star safety ratings from Euro NCAP, ensuring excellent protection for occupants. They include numerous driver safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a rear-view camera.

However, Land Rover’s reputation for reliability isn’t the best. According to the J.D. Power 2019 Vehicle Dependability Study, the brand ranked 20th out of 24, although this was better than brands like Audi and BMW.

Dimensions Comparison

What are the dimensions of the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport?

Range Rover Evoque

  • Length: 4371mm
  • Width (including mirrors): 2100mm
  • Height: 1649mm
  • Boot space: 591 litres

Land Rover Discovery Sport

  • Length: 4597mm
  • Width (including mirrors): 2173mm
  • Height: 1727mm
  • Boot space: 829 litres

Final Thoughts

The Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport are very similar in many aspects, sharing engines, gearboxes, suspension, brakes, electronics, and on-board tech. They even look similar and cost about the same to buy and run. However, there are some crucial differences.

The Evoque isn’t the most family-friendly mid-size SUV, but it’s luxurious and stands out from the crowd. The Discovery Sport, on the other hand, is an excellent family car but lacks the Evoque’s feel-good factor. While our head says the Discovery Sport should be the winner here, our heart says go for the Evoque.

For more detailed advice on buying used cars, check out our safe buying advice, how to sell your car, and getting a used car on finance. If you need tips on maintaining your vehicle, our car maintenance guide has you covered.