Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Land Rover will reveal a shock Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept at the Geneva Motor Show 2012 next month – and if public reaction is positive, it could be given the go ahead for series production.

The new soft-top Range Rover Evoque is a genuine surprise and is being labelled a concept by Land Rover because it wants to see if there is a market for such a car.

Land Rover is billing the new Range Rover Evoque Convertible as the world’s first premium convertible SUV. If it does reach production, it will once again break new ground in the SUV sector and outsmart rivals.

The new machine looks radically different to the current Range Rover Evoque Coupe and five-door range, boasting a completely open cabin uncluttered by roll bars with the roof down (automatic pop-up safety bars provide protection during rollover incidents).

The exposed interior, combined with the high seating position of the Range Rover Evoque, will give a truly unique vantage point for occupants, and it is this added appeal that Land Rover hopes will appeal to buyers.

It also makes the Range Rover Evoque even more distinctive-looking, particularly as Land Rover has cleverly integrated twin buttresses into the tonneau cover for the roof.

The folding roof is a soft top rather than a bulkier, heavier hard top. This has allowed Gerry McGovern to retain most of the distinctive lines of the standard Evoque, simply reinterpreting them for the new open-top lines.

Prices are a long way from being confirmed, but they will probably be around 15 per cent higher than the standard model, giving an entry level price of around £31,000 – but maybe much more if Land Rover decides to restrict model choice to more expensive engines and trims.

A decision on whether it will make production will not be made until after the Geneva Motor Show. For now, it’s entirely over to the public to have their say. What do you think, then – should Land Rover build the new Range Rover Evoque Convertible?