Range Rover Evoque gets some new tech for 2014

When the 2014 Range Rover Evoque goes on sale in just a few months, it's going to have a whole host of new technologies on offer. As difficult as it is to believe that the Evoque is already being updated with new technology (didn't this SUV just come out a little while back?), Land Rover isn't waiting around. Over 170,000 units have been sold in just 18 months, and this compact SUV is well on its way to becoming Land Rover's sales leader of the decade if this pace keeps up.

First up in the 2014 Evoque is the new ZF-9HP nine-speed automatic transmission, which will replace the six-speed ZF unit available in the current Evoque. This new unit's shift response time is described as being "below the threshold of perception," though where it really pays off is in engine efficiency.

Land Rover
The 2014 Range Rover Evoque will also get a few new paint options, like Zanzibar Bronze pictured here.

Perhaps of greater significance is the optional Active Driveline system, an on demand four-wheel drive system which is promised to improve fuel economy by operating in front-wheel drive mode during steady-state driving at above 22 miles per hour. This new system monitors the Evoque's driving mode and activates four-wheel drive when needed. Torque Vectoring by braking is another new feature which will be available on all versions of the Evoque, and it will redirect torque between the four wheels to counteract understeer.

But that's not all, as 2014 Range Rover Evoques will also be available with Park Exit Control, a system that allows the car to automatically exit a parallel parking spot. Perpendicular Park will position the car centrally in two parking spots. Also available will be the Closing Vehicle Sensing and Reverse Traffic Detection, which will warn the driver of oncoming traffic. Lane Departure Warning will also be available on the 2014 Evoque.

The 2014 Evoque will also have Land Rover InControl as an option, which will have two features: InControl Remote and InControl Secure. The former will allow the occupants to contact emergency services in the event of a crash, also allowing them to reach Land Rover Technical Assistance. The latter will track the car in the event of a theft.

The Evoque will get a few minor cosmetic tweaks as well, with new paint and wheel options joining the options list for 2014.

By Jay Ramey